LEADERS of 1st Cirencester Scout Group have said they are overwhelmed at the number of strangers who offered to help out, after their cabin was trashed by vandals.

Scout leaders discovered the wrecked cabin building on Cotswold Avenue when they arrived on the evening of February 17 for a meeting. Beaver Scout leader Rachael Hailstone said food had been scattered on the floor, drugs needles were found outside, and there was faeces smeared across the hallway.

After the Standard published an article highlighting the situation, Rachael said she was so pleased to see the Cirencester community coming together to help out the small charity group.

"Countrywide lent us a rug doctor free of charge to clean the carpet," she said. "And we got a deep clean offer from the CEO of Eco-klean. One lady offered to do an interactive dragon story telling event for the children.

"I'm just really pleased that the Cirencester community are willing to help out. It's really lovely."

Many members of the public also offered their advice to the group. John Stevens wrote on the 1st Cirencester Scout Group Facebook page: "Really sorry to hear of this appalling act . You could try to raise funds for CCTV or other equip by using Go Fund Me. I'm sure a parent could start the ball rolling and others would join in. Colin Harrison of Cirencester Intruder Alarms may be able to advise you on security. Hope this helps."

Chas Latham wrote on the same online page: "I am really interested in raising money for you guys to help you fix your scouts hut. It is terrible what happened."

The scout group is now looking to set up an online fundraising page to raise money. A big clean up weekend is also being held on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19 which everyone is welcome to attend.

Visit facebook.com and search 1st Cirencester Scout Group for more information.