I would like, through your pages, to thank Group Scout Leader Brendan McLaughlin and all the other leaders of the 7th St George Scouts, Lee Mount, for organising the recent summer camp to France. (Courier, August 12).

As you reported, 40 Scouts went on this trip, from the 9th to 16th August, which included formal events such as the laying of wreaths on behalf of the Royal British Legion and more traditonal activities, such as visits to Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe, through to out and out fun at Disneyland, Paris.

I am the parent of a Scout who went on this camp - and came home, tired and exhausted but having had a brilliant week. The opportunities for young people to participate in these type of activities are fewer and fewer these days.

Scouts and members of other uniformed organisations are open to bullying and teasing at school. Despite this, it is pleasing to see so many young people still participating in these activitiies. Scouts have learned so much on this trip - not just about another country, nor just about what war actually costs us in human terms.

They have learned how to work together to achieve things, how to look out for one another and how to have fun, within boundaries. If only more young people would join rather than scorn these types of activities, maybe we would have less of a social problem in our communities.

Well done Scouts and leaders for your continued part in keeping the Scouting movement active in this area. I know how hard the leaders work, not only week to week but especially in running a camp such as this.

I am sure I echo the thoughts of all the other parents when I say a simple but sincere thank you.

Lynne Oates