A Swindon scout group has set off on the long journey to South Korea to reach the World Scout Jamboree.

Hydra Explorers departed the Toothill Scout Hut on Bodium Drive in the early hours of Thursday morning (July 27) to begin their journey.

Scouts from over 150 countries across the globe come together once every four years to promote unity, community and togetherness.

The Wiltshire group consists of 36 young people from across Wiltshire with 18 of those from Swindon as well as two of the leaders.

Mark Allen is the Explorer Scout Leader at the group and is delighted to finally get the trip underway after years of planning.

“We are all really excited to finally be travelling to the Jamboree after nearly two years of build-up with training camps, fundraising and social get-togethers,” said the 50-year-old.

“Experiencing different cultures, meeting other scouts from around the world and trying out new activities will have a lifelong effect on the group.”

The 25th World Scout Jamboree is a two-week event holding significant historical value as the first Jamboree dates back to 1920.

This year’s event will be hosted in Gunsan-si, South Korea and it will be the second time there as the 17th edition was held in the country in 1991.

Festivities will last from Tuesday, August 1 to Saturday, August 12.