A NEW £360,000 Scout and Guide headquarters which took over eight years to build has been officially opened by honorary scout, Richmond MP William Hague.

Over 300 people a week use the new building in Bedale, which has been designed as a centre for the whole community.

Chair of Bedale Scouts and Guides Marie Wilson said it had been a huge task to raise the money needed starting with £50,000 they had pulled together from fetes and events which with the backing of Northallerton Voluntary Services Association had helped unlock grants and funds from other areas.

Over £150,000 had come through the Forces Community Covenant grant because of the connection with nearby RAF Leeming and Catterick Garrison.

“It’s been a huge challenge. We are really delighted at how it has turned out and it’s gratifying to know that it’s being used by so many groups, it’s booked out every other weekend for birthday parties,” she added.

Mr Hague, who was presented with a Scout scarf and woggle to mark the occasion, said: "I am really delighted to be opening this building. I remember the former Scout hut and it really did look as if it was only standing up by force of habit. It is so important now that young people get together and undertake activities together. You have made a really good job of this building and I can see it will be put to very good use.”