The Organisers of Timbertown would like to thank all of the volunteer helpers and supporters that made Timbertown 2018 ‘Down Under’ bush camp such as success. Without your support, Timbertown would not be possible, especially with the extreme challenges that emerged this year. Thank you!

The Organisers have had to make changes to programme to save this year’s event. Due to the extremely dry weather this summer, and after consultation with senior management at Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service, it became clear that it will not be safe to finish with the customary bonfire. This left the organising Committee with a dilemma, as the usual programme involves building huts from vast numbers of wooden pallets. With no viable means of disposal, the choice was tough: scale back this year’s building, or cancel the event.

Less than 3 weeks before the event, the Organisers – many of whom have run TIMBERTOWN for many years and overcome many challenges along the way – decided not to disappoint the many children and parents who have booked. Reluctantly, they chose to reduce the building and painting programme from two days to one. The Australian bush camp would use less timber, combined with other materials. The other activities – such as tug of war and other outdoor games and entertainments – continued as normal, but then the rain came on games day, but we carried on! Despite the changes this year, we hope those that joined us enjoyed Timbertown.

Timbertown is a non-profit making children’s playscheme, run over the August Bank Holiday in Maidenhead for approximately 350 local children, aged 6 to 11. The charity has been running annually since 1984, and has grown and developed with the support and generosity of local individuals and organisations. All helpers act as volunteers, and without this support, the event would not be able to take place.