GUIDES and Scouts across East Lancashire are preparing to welcome their Romanian counterparts for a reunion visit.

Twelve months ago a group travelled from the UK to Romania to help refurbish a children's holiday camp at the same time as developing the ideals of scouting and guiding.

Now the East Lancashire contingent is planning a return visit for 2001 when the Romanian friends they made will come to England.

Adele Piddington, from the Romania 99 Group, said: "While the British group was in Romania they benefited from the most generous hospitality and even welcoming gifts were given from the Romanian Scouts against a background of shortage."

Now the group is hoping to return the favour and is looking to raise £6,000 to help fund the trip for 20 Romanian youngsters.

To help in any way can contact John Lord on 01254 681505.