BEAVERS and cubs came face-to-face with wolves in Stratton.

This was no scene from the Jungle Book, but rather a chance for members of the 2nd Stratton Scout Group to meet two real-life animals on Friday night.

The North American timber wolves, Dakota and Duma, arrived at the group's meeting at St Philip's Church in the company of handlers John Denness and Alan Owens.

Excited, but anxious, members of the group quickly warmed to the animals and even got to stroke them.

Akela scout leader Rick Nutley said: "The boys were really excited, especially given the fact that the cubs used to be called wolf cubs and so have a wolf-related theme running through their training scheme and badge work.

"Some of the younger boys were decidedly nervous about coming face-to-face with a wild animal, but the handlers are highly trained and experienced in ensuring nothing untoward happens.

"They have taken these animals to visit schools and country fairs all over the south of England."