THOSE long winter nights won't be quite so much of a challenge for a North Yorkshire Scout group, thanks to a National Lottery grant.

The 1st Thirsk pack will be prepared when temperatures plummet in future, with more than £3,000 from the Millennium Festival Awards for All programme going towards a new heating system, in the hut on the town's Picks Lane.

The old one is thought to have dated back to the 1960s and was at the end of its life.

Chairwoman of the group's executive committee, Paula McQuade said: "It is just what we needed and makes the Scout hut a much more comfortable place for the many people using the facility, especially in the winter months.

"Quite a few parents do what they can to help with the upkeep, but this job needed the professionals; it is a very good investment."

Others groups looking to hire the facilities can make bookings on (01845) 526811.