Scouts lose 'thousands' in blaze

The troop's hut was engulfed in a ball of flame and raized to the ground after a fire was started in the adjoining Beeching Road Industrial Estate at 10.30 on Saturday night.

The Scouts had spent the day taking part in the Senlac Scouts' triumphal centenary St George's Day parade, but awoke the following day to find their premises destroyed.

Irreplacable equipment worth tens of thousands of pounds and memorabilia documenting the group's 80 year history have all been burnt beyond repair.

Group Scout Leader Janice Gammon was devastated when she heard the news.

She said: "It's sickening. I was there watching but could do nothing to save the hut.

"I had to just stand back and witness all that history and hard work went up in smoke."

All the groups camping equipment was destroyed, including tents, ropes, and sporting and medical equipment.

Photos and items that were to be the centrepieces of an exhibition in August to celebrate the centenary of scouting have also been destroyed.

There is some good news however.

The 2nd Bexhill Scout Group has come to the rescue of its sister group and has kindly said the 9th can use its premises until the hut is rebuilt.

Barry Williamson, Group Scout Leader of the 2nd Bexhill Scout Group, said: "I feel very sorry that they have lost the building and all their equipment and photos.

"We wanted to do anything we could to help. It could be a year to 18 months before they are back in their Wainwright Road home.

"I think the people who did this were after the bins, but unfortunately it set the scout building alight as well.

"These sort of fires seem to be part of living in Bexhill now. I saw another one just the other day."

Meanwhile, the St John's Ambulance Bagders, who also used the premises, are still without a home.

Nicola Coen, leader of the group, said: "I am devastated. I don't know why anyone would do such a thing."