There's jubilation in Boughton Monchelsea after the village Scout group won planning permission for a new headquarters.

The conversion of an agricultural store at Campfield Farm of Haste Hill Road was given the nod by Maidstone planners.

The group must now work flat out to ensure the conversion work is completed in good time before they are forced to leave their present hut, where the landowner has given them notice.

The Scout troop has been at their present quarters since 1993, but their 15-year lease has not been renewed. Local land owner Paul Firmin has come to their rescue offering an old barn on his farm at a peppercorn rent, but the Scouts have the huge task of raising the £30,000 necessary to pay for the conversion.

The Scouts have already decided on a name for the new building. It is to be called the Slingsby Hut, after their former Scout leader, Ray Slingsby, who died suddenly in an accident last year.

To make a donation or to help with fund-raising, call project manager Robin Fuller on 01622 609973.