SCOUTS leaders say they have been bowled over by the community’s support after launching a £45,000 appeal to stop their HQ sinking into the gound.

Earls Colne Scouts need to raise the cash before they can start work on their base, off Station Road.

The campaign began in January last year after a corner of the hut started subsiding due to problems with one of the stilts it stands on.

Last weekend Colne Valley Golf Club hosted a spring ball to raise funds for the appeal on behalf of Earls Colne Recreation Club.

The event raised £2,000, taking the total so far up to £18,000.

Earls Colne Recreation Club manager Sue Freear said: “We are very lucky to live in an extremely generous village and the local businesses have been fantastic supporting our appeal.

“They have donated prizes for raffles, their time and some have contributed financially.

“The Scout and Guiding sections are very thankful for the support.”

Work on the hut needs to be completed by next year, and Mrs Freear says the alternative “is not worth thinking about”.

She said: “It is terribly important to the Scouting and Guiding communities, not only to learn new skills and experiences, but also to form new friendships.”