WYRE Forest Scouts are celebrating the completion of a landmark project which has added an extra dimension to their activities.

A new 22-bed facility at their Rhydd Covert activity centre and campsite next to West Midland Safari Park was officially opened on Saturday, October 5 after a two-year fund-raising appeal.

More than 5,000 young people stay at Rhydd each year and the £140,000 extension will enable more youngsters than ever before to visit the site and learn vital life skills in a fun environment.

The appeal won backing from the Wyre Forest community and almost 100 individuals and organisations who helped fund the venture attended the opening ceremony.

Appeal chairman Mike Thompson said: “So many people and organisations have helped us turn our dream into a reality and I thank everyone who contributed to this great addition to our campsite.

“We are very proud of this impressive facility but we could not have achieved our aim without the generous backing of a huge number of individuals, organisations, businesses and trust funds.”

The ribbon-cutting was carried out by local Scouts president John Beard assisted by young people representing all the age-groups in district Scouting including Beavers Cameron and Sophie (Wyre Forest 9th group), Cubs Georgia and Connor (WF11), Scouts Erin (WF7) and George (WF9), and Young Leaders Ollie and Douglas.