A cash-strapped scout group has had all its equipment stolen only a month before its annual camp, writes Michael Hambleton.

Police said thieves would have needed a van to carry off the camping gear from The Den the headquarters of the 15th Didcot Scout Group in Baden Powell Way, Didcot.

It included six tents, a spirit stove, cutlery, two gas lamps and a gas bottle. It will cost the group at least 1,000 to replace. Leader David Taylor said the burglary was a major blow for the cash-strapped group, which had recently spent 900 buying new tents for a ten-day international camp in July.

"These have now been removed from the hut until security can be improved," he said.

Police think the equipment may have been stolen on two successive evenings.

Mr Taylor said: "Whoever did it seemed to know what they were about. There was little or no damage to the building from the forced entry." The present concrete prefabricated hut was built in 1962, since when it has become dilapidated.

The 15th Didcot the oldest scout group in the town has had its headquarters in Baden Powell Way, off Broadway in the town centre, since 1927.

The popular group caters for 70 youngsters beavers, cubs and scouts from six to 15.

Anyone with information about the theft should call 01235 516868 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.