Scouts' appeal sparks cash grant

6:45am Monday 28th April 2008

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AN Abingdon Scout group is celebrating after a cash grant helped restore its flood-hit hut.

The 2nd Abingdon Scouts were in despair last summer when the widespread flooding which swamped swathes of Oxfordshire ruined the floor of the hut, in Farm Road.

But a new-look hut has been unveiled after months of repairs - thanks to ongoing fundraising efforts in the town and, in particular, a £1,500 donation from Southern Electric.

That money, added to an insurance payout for the damage, has enabled the Scout group to completely transform its regular meeting place.

Scout group chairman Anthony Yates, an electrical fitter for Southern Electric, said: "The floods caused huge disruption last year.

"The water didn't actually flow through the building, but it caused enough damage to the foundations and flooring to mean it was unsafe for use.

"We were able to claim for the replacement of the main hall floor and other floors in the building.

"However, the insurance did not cover the cost of hiring alternative accommodation."

Mr Yates approached Southern Electric which came up with the £1,500 from its charity fund to bail the group out, and pay for a wheelchair access ramp.