THE number of youngsters in West Devon joining the Scouts has jumped by a huge 21.5%, helping scouting to achieve the biggest membership surge for 38 years.

Record numbers of young people in West Devon have joined the Scouts.

With nearly 100 new young people and 15 new leaders in the past 12 months, West Devon has become the fourth fastest growing district in the whole country.

According to statistics released recently, scouting in Devon has grown by 5.1% since January last year, helping the total UK membership reach 499,323.

This surge in membership has cemented scouting's position as the largest co-educational youth movement in the country.

Explorer Scout Alex Symons, 14, from West Devon Explorers in Tavistock, said: 'Scouting's really fun.

'You get to do so many exciting things like rock climbing, raft racing and tree surfing, so it's not surprising that loads of people are joining.

'I hope to be one of the scouts going to Sweden for the world jamboree next year, it would be really cool to be selected for that.

'I joined Beaver Scouts when I was six and have enjoyed every minute of it and have made loads of friends - I'd definitely encourage others to join.'

Chief scout Bear Grylls said: 'It's fantastic to witness such a huge surge in scouting and it is proof that scouting is appealing more and more to teenagers.

'Scouting is empowering, wild and fun, and offers so many adventure based activities for young people and adults alike.

'My goal is for every young person that wants to be involved in scouting to be able to be. So I hope to inspire even more adults to volunteer and help this happen.'