WROXALL scouts had to cancel their end of year party after their hut was broken into and vandalised.

Scout leader Azwar Zahoor, who discovered the damage just before the party was due to take place last Thursday (July 18), said the scouts were left 'shocked and disappointed.'

He changed the locks, only to find them broken again — and further damage caused — when he returned to the 1st Wroxall headquarters four days later.

During the second break-in, he said items including the scouts' rucksacks and maps were stolen.

Ali Burt, East Wight district commissioner, said: "I'm upset people could do this in an area with limited activities for young people.

"Scouting provides an outlet for young people to form friendships, and learn skills they can develop into activities that benefit the community."

Scout leaders from across the Island, and friends of 1st Wroxall scouts, took part in a community clean-up on Monday, following an appeal on the group's Facebook page.

Keen to recruit new members, Azwar said: "We won't let this dampen our enthusiasm for scouting — our aim is to help young people develop skills for life."

Anyone interested in joining can call Ali on 07785 934644, or email Ali.Burt@isleofwightscouts.org.uk

Anyone with information about the break-ins can call Isle of Wight police on 101, quoting the reference 44190251809.

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