After years of using a variety of venues, Broughton Scouts hope to have their own hut later this year.

They have applied to Allerdale council for permission to build the prefabricated hut on land off Pennybridge Lane which they bought from the county council nine years ago.

It will have a main hall, two store rooms, a kitchen and toilet.

At the moment, the Scouts and Cubs meet in the village hall.

The Beavers meet in Brigham Memorial Hall. There are about 60 youngsters and six leaders.

Rod Erlston, who has been leader of the 1st Great Broughton Scouts for 30 years, said: “It will make life much easier. We cannot store things in the halls so the leaders have to take the majority of it with them, which can be problematic at times.

“Over the years we have met at various locations. We have wanted our own hut for a long time and got planning permission a few years ago.

"We had to do lots of surveys which cost a lot of money. We had permission for a brick building but could not get the finance.

“We have since decided to do a prefabricated self build which we will put together.”

Over the years the group has raised £35,000 through a range of events. This should cover the cost of the building, and they hope that once it is constructed they will then be able to apply for grants to cover the cost of installing electricity.

“We hope it will be finished by the autumn. We can use it without electricity, initially,” added Mr Erlston.

“Everyone has been very supportive. It will be great for all the youngsters in the village. They get so much out of being in these groups.”