Bibbys Farm Scout Activity Centre, Bibbys Farm Scout Camp Site, Chorley (2026)

12/06/2026

At Bibbys Farm, the safety of our visitors and volunteers is our highest priority. We are taking this opportunity to remind everyone of the risks associated with carbon monoxide (CO) and the importance of using fuel-burning equipment safely.

When using gas appliances, stoves, heaters, generators, or other fuel-burning equipment:

• Never use them inside tents or sleeping accommodation.

• Always ensure suitable ventilation is available.

• Follow manufacturer instructions and safety guidance.

• Regularly inspect and maintain equipment.

• Be aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, tiredness, and confusion.

• If you have any concerns about safety, stop the activity immediately and seek assistance.

Carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelt, or tasted, making it particularly dangerous. By following good practice and speaking up when something doesn't seem right, we can all help ensure Bibbys Farm remains a safe environment for young people, volunteers, and visitors.

For anyone planning camps or overnight stays, now is a good time to review your equipment and procedures to ensure they meet current guidance.

07/06/2026

As Volunteers' Week comes to a close, we'd like to say a huge thank you to every single volunteer who gives their time, skills and enthusiasm to support Bibbys Farm.

Throughout the week, we've shared just a few of the stories behind the people who help make our campsite what it is. From maintaining and developing the site, to running activities, supporting events and helping behind the scenes, our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do.

The impact our volunteers have is clear to see. Following our recent Blowout event, one attendee summed it up perfectly:

*"Absolutely brilliant, every single one of them was super friendly and helpful!"*

Feedback like this reflects the dedication, commitment and welcoming spirit shown by our volunteers every day.

To everyone who volunteers with us — whether you help regularly, occasionally, or have supported us over many years — thank you. Bibbys Farm simply wouldn't be the place it is today without you.

If you've been inspired by the stories we've shared this week, we'd love to welcome you to the team. Whatever skills, experience or time you can offer, there's a role for you at Bibbys Farm.

Find out more and register your interest here:
https://www.bibbysfarm.org.uk/volunteer

05/06/2026

Ryan has been involved in Scouting since the age of six and credits much of his own development and experiences to the movement. Through volunteering at Bibbys Farm, he enjoys giving something back and helping young people gain the same opportunities that shaped his own journey. Whether he's running climbing sessions, helping with projects around the site, or supporting fellow volunteers, Ryan is always looking forward to what's next.

**What inspired you to start volunteering?**
I've been involved in Scouting since I was six. Volunteering is my way of giving something back to the movement. Hopefully, young people in Scouting and those visiting Bibbys Farm will get just as much out of it as I did when I was younger.

**How did you first get involved with our site?**
I'd visited a few times as a Scout and then helped out on service team weekends when I was in Explorers. Once I turned 18, I carried on coming down as a volunteer and completed my Service Crew training.

**What has been your most memorable moment volunteering?**
For me, it's some of the sessions I've run. I instruct a lot of climbing and high ropes sessions, so it's great to see people overcome their fears and achieve something they didn't think they could do.

**What do you enjoy most about being part of the team?**
We have a laugh while we're getting work done, whether it's cleaning or project work, and then we all catch up over lunch. People are always happy to teach others new skills and share their experience, even when it would be quicker for them to do the job themselves.

**What keeps you coming back?**
I enjoy what I do, have fun with the rest of the team, and want to see what's next for the site.

**What skills have you gained through volunteering?**
Too many to list! I've gained lots of practical skills including basic DIY and repairs, fencing, flag laying and hedge laying. I've also developed soft skills such as teamwork, project management and prioritisation. When I changed jobs last year, my volunteering experience gave me plenty to talk about during my interview.

**How has volunteering changed you?**
I've learned a lot and had some fantastic life experiences through volunteering. My confidence has grown since I first started, and I've met lots of new people and made great friends along the way.

**What are you most proud of achieving here?**
Being involved in delivering projects across the site. Some are visible for everyone to see, while others happen behind the scenes, but it's rewarding to know they all help keep the site running smoothly and safely.

**What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?**
Go for it! It's easy to look at the time other people put into the site and think you can't commit the same amount, but that's absolutely fine. Volunteering is flexible and fits around your availability. Even helping at a couple of event days each year makes a huge difference, and you'll have a great time.

**What would you love to see happen here in the future?**
I'd love to see a list of all the skills we have across the organisation. We know a lot about people's expertise, but I bet there are plenty of hidden talents we don't know about yet!

**Is there a role or activity you'd like to try next?**
Activity-wise, I think the next couple of years are going to be massive for the site. Hopefully that means some new activities for me to try as well — all in the name of testing and quality control, of course!

---

Inspired by Ryan's story? We'd love for you to join the team. Whether you can help regularly, occasionally, or simply lend a hand when you can, there's a volunteering opportunity for everyone at Bibbys Farm.

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, helping us provide unforgettable experiences for young people while maintaining and developing our unique campsite for future generations.

Find out more and register your interest here:
https://www.bibbysfarm.org.uk/volunteer

04/06/2026

Mark's volunteering journey began as a Scout, helping out with his local Cub Pack as part of his Scout Award. What started as a requirement for an award soon became a lifelong commitment to supporting young people and creating opportunities for others. Today, alongside his work with Scouting, Mark continues to volunteer within the running community, helping to organise events and support participants of all ages.

**What inspired you to start volunteering?**
I first got involved in volunteering as a Scout as part of my Scout Award, helping out with my local Cub Pack. I have never stopped being involved since.

**How did you first get involved with our site?**
I first got involved at the campsite as a District Representative for my Scout District. Over the years, I became involved in a variety of different roles across the site.

**Why did you continue volunteering?**
I wanted to give others the same opportunities and experiences that I was given through Scouting and running. Volunteering allows me to help create those opportunities for future generations.

**What has been your most memorable moment volunteering?**
I have quite a few memorable moments. Being involved in organising the Closing Camp at Hulton Park Scout Site and the Opening Camp at Bibbys Farm Scout Campsite are among the most memorable.

**Have you volunteered anywhere else?**
I was fortunate to be selected as a volunteer for the London 2012 Olympic Games and the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, both of which were fantastic experiences.

**What skills have you gained through volunteering?**
Volunteering has helped me develop skills that I would never have learned through my day job. It has also given me the confidence to take on new challenges, including travelling around the world on my own.

**What are you most proud of achieving at Bibbys Farm?**
I am particularly proud of designing, planning, fundraising for and organising the tree planting across campsite areas 4 to 10. It has been great to watch these areas develop and grow into established camping areas.

**If you could sum up your volunteering experience in one sentence, what would it be?**
Volunteering within both the Scouting and running communities has been an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing me to give back, develop new skills and help create opportunities for others.

---

Inspired by Mark's story? We'd love for you to join the team. Whether you can help regularly, occasionally, or simply lend a hand when you can, there's a volunteering opportunity for everyone at Bibbys Farm.

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, helping us provide unforgettable experiences for young people while maintaining and developing our unique campsite for future generations.

Find out more and register your interest here:
https://www.bibbysfarm.org.uk/volunteer

03/06/2026

Kieran first became involved with Bibbys Farm by helping at events, running activities and supporting young people to get the most out of their visits. Over the years, his involvement grew through Explorer Service Teams and a wide range of volunteering opportunities across the site. Passionate about developing new activities, improving the campsite and sharing skills with others, Kieran continues to play an active role in helping Bibbys Farm thrive for future generations.

How did you first get involved with our site?
I started by helping at events, harnessing people and running activities, before coming more often and eventually joining Explorer Service Teams.

What skills have you gained through volunteering?
Too many to name.

What are you most proud of achieving here?
Achieving my Scouts of the World Award by designing and creating a peace garden by the campfire.

What makes this volunteer community special?
Everyone is friendly, happy to lend a hand and pass on skills whilst having a laugh.

What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?
Try it at least once. You will find an opportunity that you enjoy, and you have skills that you can pass on.

What would you love to see happen here in the future?
Some more activities to be developed and offered.

Inspired by Kieran's story? We'd love for you to join the team. Whether you can help regularly, occasionally, or simply lend a hand when you can, there's a volunteering opportunity for everyone at Bibbys Farm.

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, helping us provide unforgettable experiences for young people while maintaining and developing our unique campsite for future generations.

Find out more and register your interest here:
https://www.bibbysfarm.org.uk/volunteer

02/06/2026

Andy has been volunteering at Bibbys Farm for more than 20 years, helping to shape the site into the thriving Scout campsite it is today. Inspired by a family tradition of volunteering in Scouting, he has dedicated countless hours to supporting the site, welcoming new volunteers, and ensuring generations of young people can enjoy memorable adventures. For Andy, volunteering is all about giving back, working as part of a fantastic team, and making a difference.

**What inspired you to start volunteering?**
My father and uncle both volunteered with Scouting, so helping out was a natural thing for me to do.

**How did you first get involved with our site?**
Helping prepare the newly bought site to open as a functioning Scout campsite. Lots of hard graft!

**What does volunteering mean to you personally?**
A chance to give something back; seeing the happiness of the children enjoying themselves; working with a great team.

**What has been your most memorable moment volunteering?**
Too many to mention, but making sure adult volunteers are recognised for what they do is key for me.

**What do you enjoy most about being part of the team?**
We work hard, but we have a great time while we do it. There is always laughter, no matter what job we are doing.

**What keeps you coming back?**
The knowledge that I can make a difference and ensure we have a great facility for Scouting to enjoy.

**What skills have you gained through volunteering?**
Time management, people management, and other skills useful in the workplace and vice versa.

**How has volunteering changed you?**
I've become more rounded through interactions with others. It is also a reminder of what is important in life.

**What are you most proud of achieving here?**
Bringing other volunteers on board – the more the merrier!

**What makes this volunteer community special?**
Bibbys Farm is unique. Our customers acknowledge this and often comment on how great the facility is and how friendly the volunteers are, including how we always go out of our way to help.

**How would you describe the team in three words?**
Fantastic, varied, cohesive.

**What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?**
JDI – just do it.

**Is there a role or activity you'd like to try next?**
Whatever needs doing, I'm happy to be involved.

**If you could sum up your volunteering experience in one sentence, what would it be?**
Twenty-plus years of just getting on with whatever is needed, as part of a great team.

---

Inspired by Andy's story? We'd love for you to join the team. Whether you can help regularly, occasionally, or simply lend a hand when you can, there's a volunteering opportunity for everyone at Bibbys Farm.

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, helping us provide unforgettable experiences for young people while maintaining and developing our unique campsite for future generations.

Find out more and register your interest here:
https://www.bibbysfarm.org.uk/volunteer

01/06/2026

Meet Callum, one of our dedicated volunteers who helps make Bibby’s Farm such a special place for young people. Inspired by his own experiences in Scouting, he began volunteering to give back and help create the same opportunities for others. From learning new skills and making lifelong friends to taking part in unforgettable events, volunteering has been an incredible journey for him.

**What inspired you to start volunteering?**

"I loved my time as a youth member in Scouting, and that positive experience inspired me to give back. Seeing the incredible impact that outdoor adventure and life skills have on young people made me want to help deliver those same opportunities to the next generation."

**How did you first get involved with our site?**

"I first came to Bibby’s Farm for Northern Comfort a few years ago. During the evening entertainment, I got chatting with the other volunteers and mentioned that I wanted to help out at a Scout campsite, having previously volunteered at another one. The staff were incredibly welcoming, showed me how to get involved, and I’ve been supporting the site ever since."

**What does volunteering mean to you personally?**

"To me, volunteering means being able to make a difference in the community while having fun at the same time. In addition to this, my role in Scouting means I get to help make a positive impact on the next generation."

**How has volunteering changed you?**

"Volunteering in Scouting has allowed me to do things and visit places that I wouldn’t normally be able to. In addition to this, I have learnt incredible new skills and met amazing people along the way."

**If you could sum up your volunteering experience in one sentence, what would it be?**

"Volunteering has been an incredible journey that has allowed me to visit unique places, learn life-changing skills, and make lifelong friends, all while finding that giving back to the next generation is its own reward!"

**What has been your most memorable moment volunteering?**

"While Scouting has given me so many unforgettable experiences, the absolute highlights have been serving as a Guard of Honour at the National Remembrance Parade at Whitehall, and volunteering at both Windsor Castle for St. George’s Day and the Queen's Garden Party at Buckingham Palace."

**What makes this volunteer community special?**

"The volunteering community at Bibby’s is a brilliant group of people; we all bring different skills to the table—from site maintenance to activity instructing—but we all share the same passion for supporting the next generation."

**How would you describe the team in three words?**

Dedicated, welcoming, and enthusiastic.

**What skills have you gained through volunteering?**

"Volunteering has been an incredible way to build both professional and practical skills. On the leadership front, it has given me real-world experience in managing young people, supporting large-scale events, and problem-solving under pressure. Beyond those soft skills, I’ve also loved getting certified to instruct outdoor activities like archery, crossbows, and climbing at Bibbys. It’s rewarding to use my technical training to help young people safely challenge themselves."

**What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?**

"I would say, 'Have a go!' You’ll be able to learn new skills, meet new people, have fun, and experience how giving back is its own reward."

Inspired by our volunteers' stories? We'd love for you to join the team. Whether you can help regularly or occasionally, there's a volunteering role for everyone.

Find out more and register your interest here:
https://bibbysfarm.org.uk/volunteering/

01/06/2026

This Volunteers' Week, we're celebrating the incredible people who give their time, skills and energy to help provide life-changing experiences for young people.

Throughout the week, we'll be sharing stories from some of our volunteers and the reasons they choose to volunteer. From making a difference in their community and helping young people develop skills for life, to making new friends and enjoying new adventures, everyone has their own unique reason for getting involved.

A huge thank you to all of our volunteers for everything you do. Your dedication, enthusiasm and support make Scouting possible.

Interested in joining our team of volunteers? We'd love to hear from you.

Find out more and register your interest here:
https://bibbysfarm.org.uk/volunteering/

Keep an eye on our page this week as we highlight the people behind the scenes and discover what volunteering means to them.

25/05/2026

What a weekend we’ve had!

Our final day saw groups out on the water — whether that was kayaking, canoeing, or simply paddling around to stay cool in the sunshine.

We’ve already received some fantastic feedback from groups, along with a few helpful suggestions on how we can make next year even better. We’d really appreciate it if all groups could complete the feedback form, which will be emailed out in the next few days once the Crew have had a well-earned rest.

A huge thank you goes to all of the volunteers who helped bring the weekend to life — whether that was preparing food, running activities, DJing, supporting behind the scenes, or helping wherever needed throughout the event. Your time, energy, and dedication made this year’s Blowout another incredible success. We’d also like to give a special thank you to the 8th Heywood Red Dragon Explorers, our brilliant service team, for all of their hard work and support across the weekend.

A final huge thank you goes to all the young people and leaders who joined us over the weekend — your enthusiasm, energy, and support are what make Blowout and Bibbys so special year after year.

We’re delighted to confirm that the next Blowout Weekend will take place from 28th to 31st May 2027, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable weekend of adventure and fun!

24/05/2026

It’s been a hot but fun-filled day of activities at our annual Blowout. From climbing on our tower to testing their aim on the archery and shooting ranges, there have been smiling faces all around all day long.

The candyfloss machine and bouncy castles have once again proved to be yearly favourites, and this year our newly added smoothie maker bike has been surprisingly popular too.

As the temperature started to cool, everyone gathered on Hulton Field for the evening’s entertainment from live band Corollas and a DJ set.

Bibbys Farm Scout Activity Centre

12/06/2026

07/06/2026

05/06/2026

04/06/2026

03/06/2026

02/06/2026

01/06/2026

01/06/2026

25/05/2026

24/05/2026

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