A TRIO of Scouts launched a fundraising drive by completing a sponsored swim.

Matthew Pack, Ben Trewick and Harry Daniels, of the 2nd Braintree and Bocking Air Scouts, swam almost 350 lengths in just two hours at Braintree Swimming Pool as they began to raise cash for a trip to Kandersteg in Switzerland.

Matthew was joined by father Andy and the two swam 200 lengths each, while Ben completed 75 and Harry 73.

Staff at the swimming pool provided a dedicated lane for the Scouts and donated to their cause.

The challenge forms part of a wider Scouts initiative which aims to help youngsters raise enough money to secure a place on next year’s trip.

So far, the three boys have raised £250 and they plan to take part in a series of events in the coming months to raise further funds.

Other events lined up include a quiz night and band night which is scheduled to take place at Jardins functions suite in Lake Road, Braintree.