Government scrapped an August summer day camp programme.

They have stepped in with their own camp, offering a programme of entertainment. Activities will include swimming and horseback riding, and there will also be lessons on Bermudian history and geography.

The Khalfani Kids Camp will be held at St. Anne's Church Hall in Southampton.

It will run from August 3-28 and be open to children between six and 11.

Said chief organiser Mr. Corin Smith: "The emphasis will be on cultural and recreational activities. It will give kids an environment that will stimulate the child's capacity for self-expression.'' Twenty-four-year-old Mr. Smith, his brother, Robin, 21, and two other students Mr. Benjamin Dyer, 20, and Miss Tequita Dickinson, 22, were spurred into action after the Department of Youth, Sport and Recreation abandoned the idea of extending the summer programme into August.

Youth Minister Sen. the Hon. Pamela Gordon said not enough children had been registered by the deadline.

Explained Mr. Smith: "We thought it would be a big shame for children to miss out, and decided to do something. The programme will also help working parents looking for organised activities for their children.'' Mr. Smith, who is studying law at Essex University in England, said brother Robin had been a counsellor at the Paget summer camp.

"I have also worked at a holiday camp,'' he added.

Mr. Smith explained Khalfani meant "destined to rule'' in Swahili.

He added the camp could cater for between 40 and 60 children, and the four would be helped by an additional counsellor.

"It is purely a private venture,'' he said.

Registration for the camp started on Wednesday and will be held again today on the porch of the Bermuda Library in Queen Street.

Cost of the camp will be $50 per week, with discounts offered to families with more than one child entered into the programme, and to those who pay in advance.