An alternate, more socially minded version of the scouts got cold and wet last month.

Woodcraft Folk is a group set up by John Hargrave, one of the founders of the Scouts who broke from the movement with concerns it had become too militaristic.

Through a fund given by Waltham Abbey Town Council's, the town's Woodcraft branch visited the Lee Valley White Water Centre.

Lynn Sheldrick, the group's leader, said: "Adult leaders and children had great fun on the large inflatable course on the lake.

"The water was very cold. I only managed half an hour.

"We would like to say a very big Thank You to Waltham Abbey Town Council for providing us with a grant."

Woodcraft Folk maintains its aim to take children who grow up in the city out to the countryside.

This weekend they are camping in Fairmead for four days.

Mrs Sheldrick added: "We have two groups, one up to nine years old and one all years above.

"We all work together as one person.

"If you are disabled you are welcome."

The under nines group meets every Tuesday at the Waltham Abbey Community Centre from 5pm to 6.15pm, with the older group meeting directly afterwards.

Each meeting costs £2 per person.