The number of scouts in Ely has risen yet again, with there now being over 650 boys, girls and volunteers involved in the city.

This year, the Scout Association has experienced growth of four per cent in the Ely district, with a 19.5 per cent increase in adult volunteers joining in the last 12 months.

Cub scouts in Ely are currently celebrating the 100th anniversary of the inception of cubs, and Steve Taylor, lead volunteer for Cambridgeshire Scouts, said that there are now more activities available than ever.

“Scouting provides a wide range of activities for young people,” he said. “These range from abseiling to zorbing, crafts to trampolining and caving to leadership. People will also be able to develop everyday skills that will help them in life, such as team working and planning.”

Celebrity adventurer, Bear Grylls, who is also the chief Bear Scout, was proud to see Scouting grow for another year.

He said: “I am super proud to see so many young people and adults learning new life skills and achieving personal rewards through Scouting in the UK.

“I am excited to see Scout numbers continue to rise across the UK, especially the number of girls.”

For more information about Scouting please visit www.scouts.org.uk/join