Hundreds visited a fun day hosted by Wiltshire West District Scouts on Saturday, to launch the new Jubilee Wood Campsite and Youth Activity Centre.

The event, which included a campfire and barbecue, celebrated the completion of the camp in West Ashton, created after the Scouts had to leave their Brokerswood base in 2012.

Wiltshire West District Scouts, which has nearly 800 members in 12 groups from Melksham to Mere, raised more than £200,000 in grants and donations to buy a 14-acre field next to Biss Wood.

A number of activities were held throughout the day, showcasing what Scouting offers, including archery, shooting, an obstacle course, pioneering, blind trail, games, camping skills and map reading.

District chairman John Cox said: “The creation of this wood and the associated facilities would not have been possible without help from a dedicated band of volunteers, from the young people who planted nearly 8,000 trees and those organisations and individuals who provided the money to bring this project to reality, all of whom have my very sincere thanks.

“When not being used by Scouts and Guides, the centre will be available for use by other youth groups, schools and other organisations and we hope that they will make full use of this opportunity.”

The campsite, laid out in a crown shape to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, will be available for use by Scouts, Guides and other youth and community organisations for camping and outdoor activities.

Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Sarah Troughton, who attended the opening, said: “This wonderful new campsite will provide so many people – young and not so young – with the ability to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in a safe environment.

“Being so close to Biss Wood, which is managed by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, provides Scouts with a great partner to share great opportunities for developing knowledge of wildlife and the environment.”