THE FIRST Melksham Scout Group is making an appeal for more girls to join their 50-year-old organisation.

Scout leaders believe bringing in girls will help improve their group's image and boost membership numbers.

The group has around 80 members and hosts annual camps and outdoor activities.

Executive committee member Simon Dicks, whose nine-year-old son is a member, said he hopes the scouts can help play a part in taking children off the streets.

He said: "There is no doubt that there is a problem with youths in the town. Most are of an age too young for pubs and too old for youth clubs.

"We give them the chance to take part in activities like abseiling and rock climbing.

"The days of separate boys and girls groups are on their way out and girls may find the scout group more exciting."

The group's executive committee is holding its annual general meeting on Saturday May 18 at 6pm in the Scout Hall at Melksham Riverside.

Anyone interested in joining the group or helping out as a lunteer is invited to attend the meeting or access their website at www.melkshamscouts.org.uk