A group of 50 Scouts from across Scotland, including Tayside and Fife, have arrived back home safe and well after a month-long expedition to Malawi.
Members raised more than £15,000 before setting off for their African adventure, which was put towards building a modern maize mill and other facilities at the national campsite of the Scout Associations of Malawi.
The local Scout Association is now able to generate an income and as a result become more self-sufficient.
Anne Masino, leader of the expedition who is based at the Scout Centre Meggernie near Perth, said, “The expedition was a resounding success and a life-changing event for us all.
“I was incredibly proud of the way our young people conducted themselves in Malawi and really worked hard and long hours to complete the projects.
“On top of that they still found time to befriend the local Scouts and members of the community, and even managed to fit in the odd game of football with them.”
She added, “It was a truly valuable life experience for us all and my thanks go to the team who have given so selflessly of their time and energy over the past two years to first raise funds to help the Scouts of Malawi before travelling there to build the facilities needed.”‘Fantastic’ expeditionHappy to be back home after a month away was 16-year-old Sammy Crystal from Fintry in Dundee.
“It was an amazing trip,” said Sammy, who will soon start a course in horse care at Fife’s Elmwood College.
“The best part was learning a different culture. Everything was totally different. The poor over there live in huts whereas here we are in houses. There are no pavements, just sand.
“I would love to go back though, next time to South Africa, and do something to help animals.”
Meanwhile Robert Ritchie (15) from Carnoustie described the trip as “absolutely fantastic.”
“The local people were very friendly and very welcoming,” he said. “Knowing that what we have done has made a difference was a good feeling and I would love to go back.”
The Scottish Scouts are also working with the Learn At BBC Scotland team to make a film of their trip.