CHIEF Scout Bear Grylls flew into Wales on Sunday - and many Penarth youngsters involved in scouting went along to St Fagans to meet him.

Bear and the young people took part in a range of activities including archery, power boating, rowing, tower climbing, bush skills, orienteering, shooting, zip wires, sailing, canoeing and more.

Bear visited nine events in Wales on the weekend, as part of his mission to encourage more adults to volunteer for Scouting, as well as to celebrate the important role of Scouting in Wales. His plan is to visit the whole of the UK during his term as Chief Scout.

The weekend's event showed what Scouting is all about, offering young people the opportunity to take part in adventure in the company of peers and trusted adults.

Bear said: "It was great to visit Scouts across Wales last weekend. At every event I went to, I met young people taking part in the adventure that Scouting provides.

"It's crucial though that more adults sign up as volunteers, to ensure that all young people have the opportunity to join. I'm super proud to be Chief Scout and its great see first-hand the adventures that our members are taking part in."

Alex Huntley, Explorer and Young Leader of Penarth-based Les Pugh's Own ESU, said: "It was great to meet Bear as he's such a huge inspiration to me. Scouting's all about adventure, so there's nothing better than having someone like Bear join in.

"I love being a Scout - it's built up my confidence, helped me make loads of new friends, expanded my horizons and allowed me to try so many brilliant things I would have otherwise never been able to do."

Nicola Havard, Leader 94th Penarth, said: "It was great to have Bear involved - the young people in my group were really excited and haven't stopped talking about it.

"Volunteering as a Scout Leader is one of the best things I've ever done - there's nothing more fulfilling than helping young people get the most out of life. I've also picked up loads of day-to-day skills that I can use at work as well."

Richard Edwards, Area Commissioner for Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan, said: "It was great for over 1,000 Scouts to have the opportunity to see, meet and talk to our Chief Scout."