SCOUTS from Astwood Bank took a trip back in time recently to spend a night around the giant fire in the 15th century town house at Avoncroft Museum.

The scouts who were aged between 10½ and 14, started their evening with a tour around the museum’s 19-acre grounds, so that they felt familiar with their surroundings, before settling into the town house for an atmospheric evening telling stories.

They also got to enjoy preparing their own supper and breakfast over an open camp fire.

Sally Payne, group scout leader, said: “Nights away from home are a really important part of the scouting adventure, and sleeping in a historic house certainly makes a change from sleeping under canvas. Our scouts were delighted to experience some of our national heritage first hand and we are grateful to Avoncroft Museum for giving us this unusual opportunity.”

All of the scouts are currently working toward their Chief Scout Gold Award, which is the highest accolade a scout can achieve, and involves them completing various tasks where they have to demonstrate a wide range of skills, as well as succeeding a in a personal challenge.