THREE explorer scouts from Stourbridge have been selected to represent the UK at the World Scout Jamboree in Japan.

The lucky trio were picked after showing off their skills at a special selection camp, near Cannock Wood last December.

Rob Chandler, aged 16, from Stourton and Wollaston boys Edward Cook and Greg McArthur, both 15, will now embark on a fundraising mission to help pay their £3,000 attendance fee ahead of next year's event, which attracts 30,000 scouts and guides from around the world.

Greg said attending the Jamboree would be "the ultimate adventure" and added: "Through scouting anyone can go and gains skills and memories which will remain with them for the rest of their lives."

The boys will join forces with other explorer scouts from across the Black Country and will also use the time to bond and prepare for spending three weeks away from home in a different cultural setting.

Chief Scout, Bear Grylls, added: “Congratulations to the young people from Stourbridge and all the other young people who have been selected to represent their communities at the World Scout Jamboree in Japan in 2015.

"Over the course of the Jamboree these young people will be able to meet people from around the world, take part in amazing adventures and experiences and be challenged to think about global issues in a new light.

"I wish them all the best and I know they are going to have an amazing time over the 18 months in the run up to the event.”