It was a muddy day for this year's AVOCK challenge for Scouts and Guides but, at least the rain held off. There were 20 teams of four young people (10 to 14 year olds) taking on the 10 challenges set by AVOCK Scout Fellowship at the Thriftwood Scout Campsite in Brentwood.
The challenges ranged from learning Circus skills, to physical team challenges with a large Earth Ball and relay events in the Pedal cars. Brain power and team strategies were also required for Orienteering, Equilibrium and the Nuclear Reactor base.  There was also the 3D Maze, Adventure course and Cork guns to make sure there was something for everyone.
The theme of the day was team building and inclusiveness; this was building on the 2007 challenge where music was used to build a band of 100. The event was made possible by the generous funding received from Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation.
At the end of the day the overall winning team came from the 3^rd Aveley Guide Company who obtained 166 points out of a possible 200. The leading Scout team was the Chafford Hundred Eagles with 150 points. One of the organisers of the event, Stewart Abbott said "it was a fantastic day with 74 youngsters going home having learnt new skills, excited, tired and very muddy".