A TROOP of Scouts in Malmesbury has received £400 towards the cost of a new canvas bell tent.

Hyams Autos in Malmesbury High Street collected the money during the annual late night shopping event in the town and through donations for their Christmas lights display.

 In previous years they donated money to victims of flooding but this year were approached by the 1st Malmesbury (King Athelstan) Scouts.

The donation means that the troop will be able to replace their ageing tents and go to a regional camp in May.

Scout Leader Owain Cole said that some of the group’s tents were older than he was and that there was no substitute for a high quality tent when taking children on camps.

He said: “Malmesbury Cubs and Scouts are quite successful. We previously only had one section for each but now we have two Scout sections and two Cubs sections.”

He added: “We’re very, very grateful for their support.”