On a somewhat changeable weather day, Saturday 9th May, Brethren of East Lancashire gathered with their friends and family for an amazing ELLC activity day.

Once again, we were hosted at Wood Sage Outdoor Education Centre in Bacup, and from the outset the energy was positive and friendly. The younger attendees played badminton and threw soft axes and shuriken with adults giving guidance and, in the case of, Bro Aaron Garner, the ELLC Chairman, demonstrating how best to “Ninja!” by throwing shurikens from behind a tree.

The ELLC Eastern Area Chairman, Bro Stephen Ogezo, was key in the organisation of the event with the ELLC Eastern Team, and he also arrived with family and friends.

The safety briefing was conducted by WBro Simon Moorhouse who, with his wife Bev, owns and runs Wood Sage Outdoor Education. Then we all divided into Juniors and Adults for a knockout Airsoft Targetting Tournament. The competition between PGLEL Area was evident but the banter was fun and the brotherhood was felt at all times.

Half way through the day everyone pause and put their replica firearms down, to tuck in to the BBQ lunch prepared by Bev. Fresh Burgers, Hotdogs and drinks and snack were a well deserved break from the excitement of the shooting.

Then, the final rounds began with winners emerging from both groups. The adult winner was Ellis Garner (19) and the junior winner Edward Eddleston (13) were each well deserving of the win! 🏆🏆

Throughout the day, great conversations were had and new friendships made. Regardless of our results, smiles were fixed on our faces and the laughter kept coming. Described on the day by our Provincial Comms Officer, WBro Darren Kennedy, who came along with his grandsons, “It’s been a cracking day all round, and we’ll come again!”.

The day was a snapshop of what ELLC is trying to create. With all areas of the province pulling together for fun and friendship, making connections and sharing experiences with family and friend.

Thanks again to the ELLC Eastern Area and Wood Sage Outdoor Education for hosting… It’s certainly looking like an annual event by requests so far.

Here’s to more events and we’ll see you at Wood Sage again next year!

The recent On The Level Podcast episode was recorded from the event which you can listen to on all podcast distribution channels (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Prime Music, etc).

Spotify Link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3vqnp09xqS7JY8epdILS2Z?si=5c0nYzwYQQCsX5uzao2x1Q