A group stands spaced out on a grassy field, raising their arms in celebration. A large red‑brick building sits in the background, with clear blue sky and trees surrounding the area.

A Sun‑Soaked March Adventure!

Phab first began its journey at Avon Tyrrell back in 1957. Terry Rolfe visited the centre, and the experience inspired him to open the very first Phab club, which still runs today! Fast-forward to 2010, when Phab resumed its relationship with Avon Tyrrell for a seven-night summer adventure using just two lodges. And now in 2026,…

Phab first began its journey at Avon Tyrrell back in 1957. Terry Rolfe visited the centre, and the experience inspired him to open the very first Phab club, which still runs today!

Fast-forward to 2010, when Phab resumed its relationship with Avon Tyrrell for a seven-night summer adventure using just two lodges.

And now in 2026, it’s incredible that Phab takes over the entire manor house – a milestone that speaks to both the growth of the charity and the strength of its partnership with Avon Tyrrell.

From the 20th-22nd March, 24 young adults (aged 18–25) joined us for a Phabulous weekend, made possible through the Adventures Away From Home fund from UK Youth.

After a snowy January debut and a freezing February follow-up, this year brought the opposite with sunshine and blue skies for the young adults who arrived eager for adventure.

Supported by a team of eight dedicated volunteers, participants were split into three groups for a weekend of confidence-building fun.

In classic Avon Tyrrell style, Friday kicked-off with a cosy campfire complete with marshmallows, singing, dancing, and big energy. Spirits stayed high as everyone headed back to the manor for a lively disco – the perfect weekend warm-up!

Saturday delivered even more sunshine. After breakfast, groups rotated through a series of outdoor experiences, including crate stacking, bushcraft, and archery.

Laughter echoed around the woods as everyone embraced each challenge… with sun cream unseasonably on standby as the heat rose.

The evening brought a fiercely competitive quiz expertly led by volunteer John, followed by a calming night walk beneath the stars. And because no Phab day is complete without music, DJ Perry closed the night with another upbeat disco before everyone finally made it to bed, exhausted after a jam-packed day.

Sunday greeted everyone with yet another clear, warm morning – ideal for the final round of morning activities: problem solving, orienteering, and pioneering before everyone came together in the gardens for a final weekend review.

This reflective session reinforces just how transformative these trips are for participants and volunteers alike, while importantly helping to secure future funding.

A wholesome Sunday lunch wrapped up the weekend.

Phab extends a huge, heartfelt thank you to the volunteers who made this weekend possible:

Steve, Michael (Welshie), Perry, Mark, John, Tracey, Hannah and Millie

We couldn’t do it without you all generously giving your time, enthusiasm, and kindness.

And the countdown has already begun. Phab will return to Avon Tyrrell in August – ready to fill the manor house once again with laughter, adventure, and the spirit of togetherness that has defined this partnership for nearly 70 years.

Roll on summer!