SCOUTS have jetted off to the other side of the world for a “once in a lifetime” experience.

Youngsters from across Cheshire will join 40,000 Scouts from around the world in South Korea for the 25th World Jamboree.

The 36-strong group, aged from 14 to 17, are set to arrive at Manchester Airport this morning to begin their 5,600-mile trip to Gunsan-si for the two-week event.

Among them is 16-year-old Rosie Sumpter from Holmes Chapel.

She said, “I can’t believe it’s finally here and me and my fellow Scouts are now jetting off to South Korea.

“I can’t wait to explore Seoul and try everything that’s on offer, I’m so excited to learn new skills and take in all the various different cultures at the main Jamboree site and in Seoul itself!”

Northwich Guardian: Each youngster has had to raise around £4,000 to attend the JamboreeEach youngster has had to raise around £4,000 to attend the Jamboree (Image: Mid Cheshire Scouts)

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The World Scout Jamboree is an event that dates back to 1920 and takes place every four years.

Scouts from 170 countries across the globe will come together for what is described as a “once in a lifetime opportunity”.

Youngsters will learn practical skills, experience new cultures and make international bonds with fellow scouts who may not share the same mother tongue.

Due to the sheer volume of Scouts flying to Korea for the Jamboree, held between August 1 and 12, most units will be making a pit stop, with the Cheshire contingent paying Paris a visit en route.

The group will then be able to explore Seoul for three days, also embarking on a tour of the Demilitarized Zone where they will see the original demarcation line between North Korean and South Korea at the end of World War Two.

Each individual has raised around £4,000 to attend and last weekend, units 46 and 47 from Cheshire gathered for their final briefing camp before departing.

Scout leader Oliver Chambers from Unit 46 said: “Preparation camps have been vital in the lead up to the World Scout Jamboree.

“It is a key moment for the Unit to get to know each other, share skills and have fun!

“With the Jamboree now only days away, our final briefing camp was the perfect way to ensure this fabulous team get the most out of their experience and are briefed for our departure.

“We were really honoured that Lady Alexis Redmond, Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, joined us to wish our young people bon voyage too.”