A PAIR of scouts from Barrhead have started a year of fundraising after being selected to attend an annual celebration in America.

Morvin Sudding and Hollie Campbell, both 16, are explorers at the 3rd Barrhead Scout Group and the only Barrhead members to have been invited to West Virginia for the 24th World Scout Jamboree.

Taking place in July next year, the event brings together young people from all over the world to promote peace and develop leadership and life skills.

The girls had to undergo a day-long assessment, performing different group activities, before completing a short interview.

READ MORE: Souper turnout at Scouts fundraiser

Earlier this year, they learned they had been successful - but now have to raise £4,000 each to go.

Morvin’s mum Sharon told the Barrhead News: “It’s a really big honour for them to get the chance to go. 

“The campsite is bigger than Glasgow. 

“It’s a big deal to get to go, but £4,000 each is a lot of money to raise.”

The World Scout Jambouree will be taking place from July 22 to August 2 next year, with the event going to the US for the first time in more than 50 years.

The pair, who live in Grahamston Park and have been best friends since they were in P1 at Cross Arthurlie Primary, have already raised some cash through car boot sales and selling sweetie bags.

Next month, they’ll be hosting a night of Scottish entertainment at St John’s church hall, featuring the Caledonian Cowboy, at which they’ll be showing off their dancing skills.

READ MORE: Neilston scout garden gets much-needed makeover

As well as helping to fund their trip, some of the money they raise will pay for scouts from third world countries to attend.

‘Wee Jock’s Big Braw Scottish Night’ will be held at St John’s Parish Church on Saturday, October 27, from 7pm. 

Tickets cost £15, with all proceeds going to the girls’ trip, and can be purchased by sending a message to the event page or ‘Morvin & Hollie’s Jamboree Journal’ on Facebook.