AFTER years of fundraising Burton Scout Group has finally secured the finances to demolish their existing hall and replace it with a brand new facility.

The troop was forced to close their hut after 25 years of use as it had been deemed "unfit for purpose", with safety concerns.

Following a big push over the summer, group leaders announced that the £140,000 target for the new hut been met.

Graham Marwick, Burton Scout Leader, said the group have worked tirelessly for many years to build up the funds to demolish the hall and replace it with a facility in fitting with the 21st century.

“In April of this year we sadly had to close the current Scout Hall as it was “unfit for purpose”," he said

"During the last six months we have been holding meetings of the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts in various locations in the area.

"Not ideal but clearly needed due to huge demand to keep the group going and growing.

"In September this year, however, the hall build working party announced that our target of £140,000 had been achieved.

"A happy and joyous day for all involved."

The project was backed by many charities and trust groups, including Stour Charitable Trust, Cooper Dean Foundation to Burton Parish council and Talbot Village Trust.

There were also scores of individual donations ranging from £10 to £1000, with all contributors listed on the group's website 8thbsg.org.uk

Since the closure of the old Scout Hall, the activities of the group have continued across three different locations.

Plans are moving forward for the demolition of the old hall and construction of the new facility, with an official opening planned for January 2019.