Wells Mayor Jasmine Browne swapped scissors for a Swiss Army knife as she officially launched a £30,000 refurbishment of the city's Scout Hut — slicing through a length of string in true Scouting style.

The ceremonial cut took place on Tuesday 23 April outside the 5th/7th Wells Scout Hut on Kennion Road, where Cllr Browne also handed over a cheque for £30,000 raised during her mayoral year.

In an emotional handover, the Mayor praised the astonishing community effort that helped raise the funds — from quiz nights and concerts to anonymous donations and support from local groups and residents.

"This has been a true Wells-wide achievement," she said. "It's been an absolute privilege to support the Scouts, who do so much for young people in our city. I'm incredibly proud of everyone who contributed — what a wonderful thing we've done together."

The cash will go toward vital upgrades of the long-serving Scout Hut, giving the young people of Wells a better space for activities, learning and adventure.

The Mayor's fundraising campaign included a packed concert at Cedars Hall, a quiz night, a civic service collection and countless smaller donations from those moved by the cause.

Some donors chose to stay anonymous, but many came from people and organisations Cllr Browne met during her year in office — underlining just how widely the Scouts' work is appreciated in the city.

With the ribbon (or rather, string) cut and work now officially underway, the Scout Group says it hopes to reopen the refurbished hut later this year.

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And in typical Wells fashion, the message from the Mayor was simple: "Wonderful Wells — you've done it again."