Six Scouts from Taunton are busy preparing to join others from around the world at the 23rd World Scout Jamboree.

The scouts from Taunton have spent over 12 months planning, raising funds and training to take part in the Jamboree which takes place this summer in Japan.

Scout leader Rob Cash said: “Preparing for this World Scout Jamboree has been a true journey.

“I’ve done some pretty fantastic things with Scouts since I became a volunteer but this tops the lot.”

Chief Scout Bear Grylls added: “While lots of people know that Scouting is all about adventure, they often don’t realise that adult volunteers get to do just as much as our young members through their involvement.

“Over the course of the Jamboree, Scouts will be able to meet people from around the world, take part in amazing adventures and experiences and be challenged to think about global issues in a new light. That is why Scouting is one of the greatest youth movement on earth and why I am so proud to be part of it.”

Between the opening and closing ceremonies, participants will have the opportunity to take part in hundreds of activities.

The Scouts will also take part in a visit to the Peace Park in the Centre of Hiroshima.

Explorer Scout Harvey Noll Jefferies, 16, from Taunton said: “This is a real opportunity for me to meet other young people from all over the world, to discover things about their culture and traditions and have fun with them. I just can’t wait to get there.”

The World Scout Jamboree runs until August 8. The Scouts from Taunton are then visiting the homes of other Scouts in Oita, South West Japan before returning to the UK.