CHARMOUTH scouts managed to make the most of a trip to the World Scout Jamboree in South Korea despite heat safety problems which saw UK scouts evacuated from the camp and into hotels.

An assistant group scout leader said the group 'had a fantastic time despite all the problems with the site.'

Four scouts, Annabel Mackenney, Verity Brown, Minnie Harding and Florence Taylor, representing the Charmouth Seagulls Explorer Unit, flew out to South Korea alongside Scout Leader Clare Mackenney from the group.

The scouts were moved from a camp into hotels because of a heatwave at the organisation's camp in South Korea.

Temperatures in parts of the country topped 38C at times, with over 600 people at the event treated for heat-related ailments, according to officials.

Issues were also raised over poor sanitation and catering at the event.

Kevin Payne, Assistant Group Scout Leader, said: "Four Scouts representing the Charmouth Seagulls Explorer Unit have had a fantastic time in South Korea despite all the problems with the site for the 25th World Scout Jamboree. 

"Although most of the traditional jamboree activities were cut short, they did have the opportunity to spend time with scouts from many other countries.

"They have discovered how scouting varies across different continents, swapped badges and scarves worldwide and made contacts with Scouts from Sweden and Australia from their campsite.

"While they were relocated to hotels in Seoul, they were able to carry on making connections and find out more about South Korean culture and history. 

"This was made possible thanks to events that their leaders and local organisations were able to organise at very short notice. They have learnt to navigate the tricky underground system explore the city and sample local food."

Clare Mackenney, their Explorer Scout Leader and a leader of one of the Dorset contingents at the jamboree, said: “We have all had a truly life-changing experience over the last two weeks. It may not have been quite what we were expecting, but our four explorers just got on with ensuring they got the most out of their opportunity to meet and mix with Scouts from all over the globe.

"We would like to thank everyone who contributed to the Scouts' fundraising that enabled them to attend the Jamboree.“