The Saxon Explorer Scouts, newly established in Somerton, are already engaging in a range of activities, guided by enthusiastic volunteers.

Boys and girls aged 14 to 17 have participated in adventurous events and tasks, promoting teamwork and flexible thinking. Planning is collaborative with the teenagers, enthusiastic to obtain their Duke of Edinburgh Awards, choosing the tasks they want to pursue.

Activities undertaken so far range from camping and diverse physical exercises to themed evenings and community service. They also mentor younger members of the 1st Somerton Scout Group. Some 94 per cent of Scouts in a recent poll confirmed they had acquired beneficial skills.

Over two hundred activities, including abseiling, coding, drama and water-zorbing, are available to Scouts. Meetings are held at 7.30pm on Mondays at The Scout Hut, Somerton. For further details or to offer adult skills-learning, contact Nicki at desc.camelot@scouts.org.uk.

Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: "Now more than ever, our young people need the confidence and encouragement that Scouting gives. That’s where we come in."

Volunteer Nicki said: "It is wonderful to watch the Scouts learn skills that are essential to their personal development. Scouting is also fun for us adult volunteers as well. Volunteering is not just about giving back, it goes both ways. It improves your well-being, gives you skills for the future, and helps you make new friends."