A scouts group on a weekend away said their stay at a Lyme venue was their 'best ever' trip.

Simon Bateman, 1st Chipping Sodbury Scout group leader has given a glowing review of the Hub where the group stayed recently for a walking weekend.

It comes as those who run the Hub,part of charity and community business the Lyme Regis Development Trust, call for more groups to stay there.

Mr Bateman said: "To have Lyme Regis as a base is fantastic, but the central location and facilities offered by The Hub were the icing on the cake for us. Sleeping for 25 was straightforward, with three or four separate areas, comfy camp beds and toasty central heating. Fish and chips from Lyme’s Fish Bar welcomed us on Friday evening, which Diane kindly pre-ordered for us. In fact nothing was too much trouble for Diane, the booking was really straightforward and efficient, we were met on arrival and shown every one of the extensive facilities, there really was nothing more we could have asked for.

"There are a number of televisions and sporting activities, depending on your requirements, but after a long day on the trail our Troop were more than happy to opt for dinner then bed.

"There are more than enough toilets and showers in the building and it is clear that building is well cared for. All of the equipment is new, in good repair and the whole fabric of the building is evidently thoroughly cleaned and well looked after. It’s obvious that a lot of work goes into keeping this place in great shape."

He added: "We had a superb weekend and only scratched the surface of the range of activities on offer in the area. Having stayed at many places over the years, I must say that this is the best place we have ever hired and I would recommend it to any Scout, Guide or youth group, of any age or size.

"Thank you Diane, for your kind and thoughtful attention; before, during and after our stay. We are all looking forward to a return visit in the not too distant future."

The Hub has been part of LRDT since 2010, when, with the county youth service, the Woodroffe School and Dorset County Council, the disused building was purchased with the aim to bring it back into use for young people and the wider community.

LRDT and The Hub have a special emphasis on forward-looking projects to fill gaps in the local economy, support activity for young people, and tackle rural disadvantage. The principle is to increasingly use income from building rents, leases and hire to support the core business of the trust, whilst applying for grants to support new projects.

Anyone who would like to use the Hub for a residential stay contact Diane on 01297 444266 or go to www.hublyme.co.uk