A MALVERN Scout troop could be forced to close because of a shortage of leaders.

The 2nd Malvern troop desperately needs new leaders to prevent it having to cut its number of meetings or, worse still, close altogether.

The troop ran a successful appeal for new leaders back in February, with two new volunteers stepping forward.

However due to changes in their personal circumstances they are no longer available, and the troop is only able to operate at present thanks to Cub and Beaver leaders stepping in to help out.

Spokesman Sarah Heath explained: “We still have one brilliant scout leader, but because of their job they are not always able to be at meetings. At the moment the cub and beaver leaders are having to give up double the time, which is not sustainable in the long term.

“The last thing that we want to do is to have to reduce the number of meetings or to close the troop down. But if we cannot find any leaders that is what we will have to do. It is a very serious situation.”

The scout troop has about 35 members and meets from 7-9pm on Friday evenings in Spring Lane.

“Volunteers get full training and support, and there is enough experience within the group to give you all the support that you need,” said Mrs Heath. “The role is a great deal of fun and also very rewarding.”

Anyone interested in finding out more or volunteering can contact Mrs Heath by calling 07817 730059 or emailing sarah@2ndmalvernscouts.org.uk.