Norfolk Scouts limiting members due to volunteer shortfall

Norfolk Scouts say "every single age group" has waiting lists of prospective members

A volunteer shortage has been blamed for scout groups in Norfolk having to limit the number of new joiners.

There are about 7,000 Scouts members in Norfolk, with members between the ages of four and eighteen among with a total of about 360,000 throughout the UK.

The organisation offers its young members access to a range of activities and a chance to make friends.

Luke Morgan, of Norfolk Scouts, said "every single age group" currently had waiting lists for prospective members.

"As a rural area we do lack volunteers," said Mr Morgan, who added that the shortfall was also a national issue.

He said: "Without the support of adult volunteers we are not able to offer more places."

The Scouts organisation includes groupings for four different age ranges - Beavers are aged six to eight, Cubs eight to 10, Scouts are children between 10 and 14 and the oldest group for 14 to 18-year-olds is called the Explorers.

"We have lots of young people who want to get involved and develop these skills for life, we just need a few more adults just to be able to offer more places to give those young people those opportunities."

Mr Morgan added: "Scouting is a great opportunity to develop skills for life and to experience things they may not be able to experience in their day-to-day life.

"It enables children to take part in activities, build confidence and grow friendships. It's about giving young people skills for life."