INTREPID local youngsters will be able to enjoy the great outdoors whatever the weather, thanks to Vodafone and the Western Telegraph.

1st Pembroke Haven Scouts group was picked from more than 50 worthy local causes to win £1,000 to celebrate the opening of the new Vodafone store at Riverside Shopping, Haverfordwest.

The group was presented with this fantastic prize on Saturday (January 24) by store manager Bianca Davies, who said she was thrilled to help such a “wonderful” organisation.

“It’s great to see the scouts promoting outdoor activities,” said Bianca.

The cash will be used to buy new tents and camping equipment, such as lightweight water carriers and benches, which the children can carry themselves.

It will also go towards buying smaller essentials, such as sleeping bags, rucksacks, and warm coats, for children whose families can’t afford them.

Scout leader Sandra Booth said the club offered a range of exciting opportunities for children aged six or over.

Last year, some of its older members enjoyed a trip to Austria, where they tried their hands at mountain biking, white water rafting and crossed the biggest rope bridge in Europe.

While at home, younger members enjoyed an overnight trip to Bosherston, where they hiked past the lily ponds and cooked dinner on a campfire.

All this on top of craft sessions, bug hunts, learning how to read a compass and using GPS technology.

“It’s not school, it’s fun,” said Sandra. “The idea is we help them turn into self confident, happy young people.”

And Vodafone staff are keen to continue supporting the scouts by donating their time and tech skills to help children achieve their IT badges.

"We'd love to work with the Scouts on future projects," said Bianca.