SCOUT packs in Bromsgrove have been forced to close and more face the axe because of a shortage of volunteer leaders.

Belbroughton, Clent and Fairfield groups have closed along with a Venture unit at Lickey First.

The future looks bleak for Seventh Bromsgrove Scout pack and a Beavers group at First Bromsgrove Charford, which caters for six to eight-year-olds.

These both face closure in January unless leaders can be found.

A Scout pack in Tardebigge has been suspended and awaits official closure after Christmas.

Unless emergency help is found, the Scouting movement in the district could be a thing of the past.

Leaders are doubling up their time and filling in the vacancies but Bromsgrove District Scout Association commissioner Val Fitzpatrick said it could not continue.

She added: "Scouting aims to physically, mentally and spiritually develop youngsters but the adult leaders benefit too and get so much out of it.

"I have been to Switzerland through Scouting and climbed a mountain even though I am scared of heights.

"The youngsters are there to make up the groups but we can't go on with such a skeleton staff.

"We urgently need volunteers so we can continue to provide Scouting in the area."

If you can help, call Val on (01527) 837060.