TAVISTOCK guide Elysia Hix has returned home from the World Scout Jamboree in Japan, bringing an end to three weeks of adventure and international friendship.

After months of planning, preparation and anticipation scouts from over 150 countries are reflecting on what has been the experience a trip of a lifetime in Japan.

Elysia said: ‘It’s amazing to think I’ve been part of a worldwide movement, met some extraordinary people from nearby and from the other side of the world, seen some fascinating things and activities from all over.

‘I’ve experienced a busy community of 30,000 people silenced for a minute on August 6 to commemorate the Hiroshima bombings.

‘That really hit me, looking down over the jamboree site seeing everyone stopped and silent and just respecting what happened 70 years ago.

‘I’ve become more confident and want to do more with the scouting community and my own community here in Tavistock.’

Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: ‘While lots of people know that scouting is all about adventure, they often don’t realise that adult volunteers get to do just as much as our young members through their involvement.

‘The World Scout Jamboree is a great example of this.

‘Nearly 4,000 scouts from across the UK meet 30,000 others from around the world and take part in amazing adventures.

‘That is why I love scouting so much!’

After returning to the UK, Elysia is now looking forward to sharing her adventures with everyone that supported her and encouraging others to apply for the next World Scout Jamboree in North America in 2019.