The Shropshire Borders, including Oswestry and Shrewsbury, has seen a more than 8 per cent rise in young people joining Scouts since January 2022.

The growth, spanning all five sections—Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Explorers—has resulted in a call for more adult volunteers to meet the increasing demand.

Volunteer opportunities are on offer to help with boys and girls ranging from four to 17 years old as well as administrative, trustee, fundraising, and IT positions.

Children can get involved in more than 250 activities, from abseiling to firefighting, geocaching to pioneering, and even zorbing.

Cub Scout Lola, reflecting on her recent activities, said: "Over the weekend, I’ve been climbing, kayaking, making a bracelet, got wet with the water rockets, made S’mores and took part in singing around the campfire.

"It’s been ace!"

The rapid increase in participants, while exciting, has presented a need for additional volunteers to accommodate the rush of eager children and youths ready to join.

Nigel, a current Scout volunteer, emphasized this requirement, saying: "More children and young people want to join Scouts and we have lots of children and young people who could join tomorrow if we had more volunteers.

"Some additional volunteers would enable more children and young people to do these activities and learn skills for life."

He also highlighted the benefits for those donating their time.

Nigel said: "Volunteering with Scouts is flexible and whatever time you can give, we will find a role for you.

"We will provide training as and when you want to do some. As a volunteer, you will make new friends, learn new skills, share interests and experience, be taken out of your comfort zone (only if you want to be) and make a difference to people’s lives.

"Seeing a child achieve something they didn’t think they could do will always bring a smile to your face.

"Volunteering gives you a sense of purpose and a great deal of pride and satisfaction."

You can find out more information at www.scouts.org.uk.