The 3rd Warwick Scouts has been running for five decades but organisers have been told they must move out of their hut in Queen's Square, off Stand Street, by May as there are plans to demolish it and build six houses on the site.

The group is run entirely by volunteers and so far they have had no luck in finding alternative accommodation in the town.

Group leader Jane Fry fears the beavers, cubs and scouts who use the hut will be forced to shut for good if they cannot find a new base.

She said: "I will be devastated if we have to close after so many years.
"Scouts is very important for this area as there's such a large housing estate and if this closes the children won't have anywhere else to go.

"Newburgh Primary School have said we can use their school hall if the site gets extended but that hasn't even got planning permission yet."

Mrs Fry has been running the Beaver group for four years and has two children who attend the clubs.

She believes scouting helps keep youngsters active and added: "The children are all very sad to hear we may close as they enjoy doing all the things we do.

"We take part in the carnival every year and it gives them something to aim towards and teaches them life skills.

"If we do have to close we will have to look for new groups for our members as we can't leave them with nothing - but there are huge waiting lists everywhere."

The group regularly takes part in charity events and children are currently filling boxes to help survivors of the Haitian earthquake.

Members also have activities planned for Sport Relief and St George's Day as well as a family camp in the summer.

Mrs Fry added: "If people know of any place we could go or a bit of land we can use please can they get in touch.

"We need anything we can get.

"If get given some land we can start fundraising to build something."

Anyone who can help the Scouts should call Sara Fenton on 457728 or send an email to sara.fenton@leamingtoncourier.co.uk