Two little Wells brothers loved going to Scouts but had to stop because the acoustics in their Scout Hut upset and frustrated them.

Nine-year-old Leo and Ezra, seven, are both neurodiverse which caused them serious problems in the building.

"Both boys found the noise and the echoes overwhelming and unsettling," explained their mother Skye.

"It made them feel emotional and unable to calm down, which was upsetting and frustrating for them as they loved Scouting and didn't want to miss out.

"We tried various solutions to keep the boys in Scouts and were supported so well by the leaders.

"We tried loop earplugs, ear defenders, regular breaks outside, and more. But unfortunately, in the end we had to accept that the Scout Hut as it is now will never work for our boys."

However Wells Mayor Jasmine Browne has made fundraising for the refurbishing of the 40-year-old Scout Hut her charity and the priority is replacing the old ceiling in the main hall, the asbestos hidden above it, and introducing sound dampening panels. 

This would make the sessions more enjoyable for all and inclusive for those with sensory issues like Leo and Ezra who are both home-schooled in Wells by their mother Skye.

"We have made this the first stage of the hut's refurbishment," said Wells Scouts' lead volunteer Heather Anderson.

"Now we are close to having enough money to get the work done and are looking for a local contractor to quote for replacing the old ceiling." Contact [email protected] if you can help.

The next stage in the fundraising is the Mayor's Charity Concert in Wells Town Hall at 7.30pm on Saturday 23^rd November with live music from the tenor Tim Pitman who performss Elvis Presley, top ten hits and popular opera.

There will also be support acts, licensed bar, auction and raffle.

Tickets are £20 and available online through this he link:

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/5th7th-wells-scout-group

They are also available for cash only from the Town Hall reception.