International Scout camp cancelled
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The "difficult decision" has been made to cancel the 37th Scottish International Patrol Jamborette which was due to be held in Blair Atholl this summer.
Held on alternate years, the camp attracts Scouts from around the world to Scotland for two weeks of adventure, friendship and cultural exchange.
In a statement, camp chief Colin Peters said: "We know this will be extremely disappointing news, but given the current and evolving situation with Covid-19 and the government’s advice around large events and social distancing, we feel that we have no choice but to take this decision.
"The health and safety of Scout members and the wider community must be our priority.
"The Blair Atholl Jamborette has been running every second year since 1946.
"We’re devastated to have to cancel this year’s event, but we believe it is the only responsible decision to take.
"We hope [things might be back to normal by July], but we can't take the chance.
"Under normal circumstances, the time between now and July would be used for training of young people for two weeks at camp and extensive preparations by leaders - these would all be disrupted or cancelled completely, putting safe preparation at risk.
"In addition, we would very shortly need to make significant financial commitments that we could not recover if the event was cancelled nearer the time, and so unfortunately we have to take the decision now.
"We also want to give you as much notice as possible.
"We will be looking ahead to 2022 to make sure the Blair Atholl Jamborette comes back stronger than ever.
"Thank you for all of your support during this difficult time."
Scouts UK announced that all meetings and events should be postponed until further notice.
