Scouts were given something to look up to when they bought a new flag from money donated by a local councillor.

Cubs, scouts and leaders from the 7th Borehamwood Scout Group closed their winter camp at Well End on Sunday with a ceremony using their new Union Flag.

The standard, along with a St George’s Cross, was bought with money donated by Hertsmere Borough Councillor Jean Heywood from her ward improvement initiative money.

Group Scout Leader Len Denbigh was delighted to be able to buy the flags.

He said: “This really given the group something to look up to. We could not have afforded to purchase a flag of this size or quality on our own and it will certainly make us stand out when at camp with other Scout groups.”

The flags are being shared with All Saints Church in Shenley Road, where they will be raised on designated flag days.

The church’s vicar, the Reverend Tim Warr, said: “Flags are symbolic of identity and shared values. The Union flag and flag of St George speak of nationhood and service.

"I am delighted these civic values are important to our young people and will be celebrated on flag days when the flags will fly from the church tower.”

As well as the normal scouting activities of climbing, archery and air rifle shooting during the camp, the 31 boys and girls completed their astronomer's badge.

They learned about the solar system and its planets and discovered how stars can be used for navigation.

One of the youngest cubs said: “This was my first time at camp and I was very nervous at first, but I really enjoyed the activities and making friends.”