LOCAL Scout, Guide, Brownie and Rainbows units have received over £2 million in less than two years, thanks to Co-op members.

The Co-op launched a local community fund in 2016 - members receive a five per cent reward for buying own-brand products, and a further one per cent is allocated to local causes.

Members can choose where their one per cent goes by selecting organisations they wish to support online.

Matt Hyde, chief executive of the Scout Association, said: "We are delighted to see such strong support and investment from the Co-op.

"This allows us to continue our vital work in supporting young people and particularly key provision in areas of deprivation and underrepresented communities.

"We hope that we can count on this valuable contribution in the future."

Since the launch of the fund, 900 Scout troops and 400 Guide, Brownie and Rainbow groups have in the UK received £2,100,000 which includes 14 groups in Cumbria.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community engagement at the Co-op, said: "Our members are passionate about supporting young people.

"Research by the Scouts themselves shows that young people involved with the movement are a third more likely to take an active role and to help out in their local communities, which is precisely the focus of our local community fund."