A SCOUT group is appealing for help after it was hit by crooks for the second time in less than a year.

The 2nd Braintree and Bocking Air Scouts had tents stolen from its container at Braintree Hockey Club, in Church Street, after being hit by crooks.

The equipment was worth about £2,000.

The theft is a huge blow to the group, which has been planning a camping weekend for the children now Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted.

Braintree mum Lydia Chao’s son, now 14, has been in the group since he was five, and she said he has had a fantastic time.

Lydia said: “Volunteers run all of the events – we’re all so grateful.”

Lydia and other parents of children in the Scout group received a message from leaders informing them of the break-in.

It also revealed the news of a previous burglary last year.

Lydia said: “The sad part is this was the second break-in.

“The first was about ten months ago which must have been during lockdown.”

The message detailed how the group’s container was broken into and tents were stolen.

It was not only a blow for the volunteers, who put everything into running the group, but also for the Beavers and Cubs who are looking forward to a camping trip which the tents are needed for.

The group had been holding Zoom meetings for the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers throughout the Covid lockdown, with activities and guest speakers for the youngsters to enjoy.

As restrictions were lifted the group had finally been able to get back to face-to-face Scouting.

The stolen tents need to be replaced as soon as possible.

The cases for the eight-man tents are black and green, and say Icarus and Eurohike on the side.

Anyone with information regarding the break-in should contact the police on 101 quoting crime reference 42/180925/21.

A fundraiser has also been launched by the group to help pay for new tents, which has received more than £500 in donations.

To donate to the appeal, visit crowdfunder.co.uk/replace-our-stolen-items.

Read more: Air scouts win countywide backpacking competitions