15,000 scouts evacuated from storm-ravaged camp in Strasbourg

Thousands of teenage scouts and guides had to be evacuated from a camp in Strasbourg in the early hours of Saturday morning after it was hit by a violent thunderstorm.

Some 15,000 scouts aged 14-17 and from 29 countries, had assembled in the French city for a jamboree called 'You're Up'. But at 1.40 a.m. the thunderstorm and strong winds swept through the camp ripping up tents and forcing its evacuation. The scouts were housed in a nearby concert and sports venue for the night.

Emergency services reported 35 people were injured, some suffering "sprains, fractures and dislocations". Parents were notified first thing Saturday morning that their children were all safely accounted for.

This morning many of the scouts had returned to the camp to help rebuild tents and repair damaged equipment.

The scouts had mostly come from other European countries, but some had travelled from as far as Canada to join the jamboree organised by the French Scout and Guide association.

By lunchtime, true to the motto of the global scout movement - 'Be Prepared' - the camp had been substantially rebuilt drawing admiration from political leaders.

On Twitter, former French Prime Minister Alain Juppe said: "After the storm, the youngsters have already been rebuilding their camp, smiling and singing even in such difficult circumstances. Bravo!"

The French association hosted the jamboree to bring together scouts and guides from different nationalities and faiths. Groups representing various Christian faiths, Buddhists, Muslims and Jews were all represented.

Activities scheduled for Saturday were cancelled to allow the scouts to rest after their ordeal, but will resume Sunday and continue until the event closes on Thursday July 23.

Following this week's meeting some of the scouts are due to set off for Japan which is hosting the annual World Jamboree in Yamaguchi. Endit