NORTH Cotswold District Scouts, has unveiled new equipment which was funded by Gloucestershire County Council’s Children’s Activity Fund.

The ‘Children’s Activity Fund’ was designed to invest in community activities that promote the wellbeing of children and young people.

County councillor, Paul Hodgkinson for Bourton-on-the-Water provided the scouts group with £1,000 funding towards new camping equipment to support a more diverse group of parents and children into scouting.

The money helped the group purchase a new full canvas patrol tent that will last 25 years and sleep up to 10 scouts.

Other camping equipment such as tables to support larger community camping activities was also included in the investment.

Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, said; “I’ve worked with parish and town councils and local organisations over the last 12 months to get funding to specific groups and activities.

"The cubs and scouts in the North Cotswolds have used this cash positively and I’m pleased to see this has made a big impact on the group who are now able to invite a wider range of families into scouting.

“The council’s new Growing our Communities Fund gives communities and local groups yet another chance to secure funding for initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and reduce social isolation.”

Cllr Tim Harman, cabinet member for public health, added; "The scouts work in the area has helped to get more people out and about and active, which is fantastic for helping them to stay healthy.

“This is what the our funding is all about, investing in communities to make a positive difference and I’m pleased we’re able to support another group within Gloucestershire.”

Tony Dale, district commissioner for North Cotswold Scouts, said: “We’re so pleased to have been considered for this grant and we’re delighted that this tax payer money has achieved a real difference.

“The equipment we’ve purchased has allowed us to host successful community events and expand our beaver colonies.

"Even more impressive is the way it has supported inclusive scouting, for girls, boys, the less able and the most disadvantaged across the beavers, cubs and scouts here in the North Cotswolds.

"I would like to thank Cllr Hodgkinson and the county council for all of their support.”