Another successful CWB training weekend, but this was with a Duchess' approval!

Last weekend saw the training weekend for the CWB Spring trips take place at Belvoir High school in rural Nottinghamshire. The weekend was hosted by the Belvoir Castle Cricket Trust (BCCT) who themselves are sending a team of volunteers to Uganda (including ex first class cricketer Darren Bicknell).

Over 35 volunteers, including former professional cricketers, government ministers, sports photographers, journalists and teachers, spent two days learning about CWB's values and coaching methods for AIDS awareness. They are also given plenty of information about what awaits them on the projects as well as assigning key roles among the groups. This meant that weekend took the form of a mix of practical coaching sessions (ably led by tutor Rich Davies) class-room learning and group activities.

The Saturday saw some great coaching sessions from Rich, an inspiring HIV/AIDS talk from Veronica Reeves and a fantastic speech on fundraising from 16 year old fundraiser Cameron Foster. And then there was the Duchess and the castle... A first for CWB training weekends. On the Saturday evening we were very kindly hosted by the Duchess of Rutland for a drinks reception at the Castle. The Duchess spoke warmly of the Belvoir trust and very kindly complimented us on our efforts in Africa. We were then taken on a fascinating tour around the castle by the Dukes Private Secretary.

There was then a inter Country tournament on Sunday, won by the Uganda team, as well as a chance for the less experienced coaches to receive certificates before everyone headed their separate ways buoyed by the weekend.

Ed Williams (CWB trustee) said 'The enthusiasm and dedication of the new volunteers was incredible and we are looking forward to four successful trips this Spring. CWB would like to thank the Belvoir Castle Cricket Trust and the Duchess for their hospitality and making us feel so welcome. Definitely the best training weekend yet.

Thanks also go to the CWB organisers Hannah Weaver and Sally Harper and all the returning volunteers who helped out.