A scouting group is celebrating after taking advantage of a community scheme to upgrade its headquarters.

Bungay Staithe based 1st Bungay Sea Scouts Group was one of a number of organisations chosen to benefit from a home improvement firm’s 50th anniversary celebrations, with its headquarters receiving a spruce up as a result.

Eleven new uPVC double-glazed windows have been installed to the group’s boathouse base, along with a brand new set of double doors, after it was successful in an application to a nationwide community appeal.

Its request was made with the goal of making its headquarters more attractive and comfortable for the youngsters who make use of it week in and week out.

Mike Walker, assistant cub scout leader at 1st Bungay Sea Scout Group, said: “We had old windows and doors in our headquarters that unfortunately let a strong, cold draft in which we just couldn’t deal with through another winter.

“The brand new windows and front doors are a huge improvement and greatly benefit the appearance of the centre, offering better security and making it a much more comfortable environment for all those who use the facilities.”

The group, which was established in 1947, prides itself on providing opportunities for children and young adults and is based at a boathouse on the edge of the River Waveney, making full use of the river for activities such as canoeing, kayaking and rafting.

The renovations were provided as part of Anglian Home Improvement’s 50 for 50 community scheme, which saw it vow to help 50 worthy causes to mark its half-centenary.

The group’s application was selected by a panel of judges, which included television and radio presenter Philippa Forrester.

Mark Ottaway, divisional managing director for Anglian Home Improvements in East Anglia, said: “1st Bungay Sea Scouts stood out to judges for the invaluable contribution it makes to the local area as a popular community offering, and we were delighted to announce it as one of our winners.

“We look forward to seeing the difference our support will make to 1st Bungay Sea Scouts and to the other worthy winners.”