A KNUTSFORD scout joined together with 30,000 Scouts from nearly every corner of the world to take part in a once in a life time opportunity for fun, challenge and adventure at the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in Japan.

After years of planning, preparation and anticipation, Scouts from more than 200 countries and territories are currently camping together in a tented-city near Kirara-hama, Japan, following a spectacular Opening Ceremony to start the global event.

Max Davies, 16, Knutsford, was one of the 50 Scouts from Cheshire who attended the event.

“We're making a real impact to the local and international community by getting involved in some great projects," he said.

"But as well as this we're making new friends, and taking part in loads of exciting outdoor activities. I'm most looking forward to getting out on the water. Scouting rocks."

Throughout the event, which involves almost as many young people as the Olympic Games, the thousands of Scouts will have the opportunity to take part in literally hundreds of activities focused on discovering new cultures, the environment, sustainable development and global issues.

All over Cheshire, the young people have spent 18 months planning and training for this unique cultural exchange.

Each had to fundraise £3,000 in order to experience the Jamboree, with part of this fee supporting Scouts attending from Bhutan, Botswana and other developing countries across Eurasia.

The Scouts have been supported throughout their preparations by a dedicated team of adult volunteers.

Dave Hopley, one of the Cheshire Unit Leaders, said: “The Jamboree is a brilliant experience for the Scouts, but it's huge fun for us adults too.

"I've loved watching them grow in confidence and self-esteem.

"The looks on their faces when they saw the Jamboree site for the first time was overwhelming.

"It's remarkable to see how their hard work has paid off."

Chief Scout Bear Grylls added: “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 are meeting 26,000 others from around the world and taking part in some amazing adventures.

"That is why I love Scouting so much!”