AN infestation of woodworm has caused an expected almost £20,000 of damage to ‘The Dump’ headquarters of the 5th Skipton Parish Church scout group.

Members discovered the infestation during the ongoing extensive renovations to the building, off the Ginnel, in the centre of town.

It means the hardwood floor and some equipment will have to be replaced at an additional cost expected to be more than £19,000. The group hopes to raise the money through a combination of grants and community fundraising and has also set up an online donations page with a target of £5,000.

Group Scout Leader, Colin Hunter said it was an unexpected blow for the group which had already worked hard to raise the money for the refurbishment.

It’s taken five years to raise the money to fix The Dump and this extra cost is something we were not prepared for. We’re really hoping that it’s possible to raise the money so we are making this plea to the Skipton community to help us.”

The group is currently having to use alternative premises for its meetings, but hopes to be back in the newly refurbished hall in March when it intends to open it up for community use.

To help with the additional fundraising, visit: localgiving.org/fundraising/5thskipton/)