Unit 63, a Scout group from Berkshire, have flown to North America to take part in the World Scout Jamboree.

The Scouts from Pangbourne will join 5,000 others from across the UK, and 40,000 more from nearly every country in the world, for two weeks of activities and skills development.

They will be given the opportunity to make new friends at one of the most international events on the planet.

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The UK Scouts are flying to New York for 24 hours in the Big Apple where they will get to know each other, site see and learn to navigate the big city before travelling to the Jamboree site in West Virginia.

Scouts will learn new skills with other young people from across the globe and experience high adventure in a community of new residents.

Freya Laundy, 14, and Josephine Snowden, 15, from Pangbourne, said: "We are looking forward to meeting people from all over the world, and finding out how Scouting differs worldwide.

“We're especially excited for white water rafting and other thrill-seeking activities!"

They were joined by Sophie Payen, 17, from Thatcham, who added: "I can't wait for the kayaking, high ropes and zipwires.

“And the best part is that the fun continues after the Jamboree ends, I'm going to be staying in a community in Toronto.”

The event is not just for young people as adult volunteers can take part in activities and learn new skills to use in their life.

Group leader Loz Marchant said: "In 2007 I was lucky enough to be part of Scouting Centenary celebrations on Brownsea Island, and I also took part in the 2016 Japanese World Jamboree.

"I know that these young people will have the adventure of a lifetime, and I can't wait to be part of their journey.”

The Scout movement was founded in 1907 and helps young people, both boys and girls, enjoy fun and adventure while developing skills for life.

More than £14m has been raised to attend this year’s World Scout Jamboree with 2.3 million hours spent fundraising.

Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: “Scouts from Berkshire are travelling 3,800 miles to wild and wonderful West Virginia, USA for the 24th World Scout Jamboree.

“These are some of our brightest and best and every one of them will be an ambassador for the Scouts, the UK’s largest mixed movement, helping prepare girls and boys with skills for life.

"World Scout Jamborees only happens every four years and tens of thousands of Scouts attend each one.

“They are incredible festivals of peace, friendship and adventure. Young people will make friends for life with people from over 150 countries, experience different food, language and culture while learning new skills. It will be the journey of a lifetime.

“The 2019 Jamboree, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico, is set to be one of the biggest and most exciting yet. The theme is “Unlock a new world” – focusing especially on how we can create a sustainable world together.”