FUNDRAISING can sometimes feel like a mountainous task — but the 1st South Zeal Scouts have taken on that task by climbing the height of Mount Everest.

The scouts set themselves the challenge of climbing the height of Mount Everest from base camp to the summit, a total of 3,450 metres. Through a number of sessions at The Barn Climbing Centre at Milton Abbot, the scouts and cubs completed the final ascent on November 6, climbing a total of 5,253 metres.

The group took on the challenge to raise funds for an extension and improvements to their Scout HQ in South Tawton.

Nicki Glanville, scout leader, said: 'The Scouts have had so much fun achieving this challenge.

'It's been great to see young people that haven't climbed before having a go and conquering heights. The staff at the Barn have been really supportive and great with the young people. We can't thank them enough for all their help with this fundraising event.'

The climb is just part of a busy period for the group, as the 1st South Zeal Scouts were fortunate enough to take part in the first harvest celebration service at Westminster Abbey for more than 45 years in October.

They joined 200 special guests from the world of food, agriculture, education, retail and catering, VIPs and members of the media. Eight hundred children from schools, scout, brownie and guide groups attended.

On their visit, children were lucky enough to meet a number of celebrities who attended the service, including Homeland star Damien Lewis, television presented Richard and Judy, and world cup winning rugby player for England Phil Vickery.

Fundraising for the hut is going well, with the group having recently received a £10,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund to start work on the hut, but donations are still welcome.

If you would like to donate, call Stuart on 01837 840574.