A century of cub scouting has been celebrated in Hertfordshire.

Scouting ambassador and television adventurer Steve Backshall met an extremely excited swarm of around 1,000 Scouts, Cubs, Beavers and Guides to take part in a day of activities last weekend.

After signing autographs and giving hundreds of high-fives to children aged between eight and 10 in Kings Langley, Mr Backshall rock climbed and zip-wired his way around the campsite.

He was also joined by international rugby star Thom Evans.

His mission is to increase the number of Scouts and Cubs and to thank all of the adult volunteers.

The pair also visited Wheathampstead to take part in the Wildest Cubs Centenary Chase Ever’ and saw Cub Scouts finish a two kilometre or five kilometre race.

Hayden Williams, a 9-year-old Cub Scout from Wheathampstead said he enjoys receiving Scouting badges. He said: “We do a lot of activities and challenges to gain a badge. I learn so much and get to try many things by being a Cub Scout.”

Mr Backshall said: "Like me, Cub Scouts love adventure and the outdoors.

"Today 150,000 girls and boys are enjoying the fun and friendship of Cubs.

"They’re learning new skills, trying new things and having the best possible start in life. If you were a Cub, why not come back and give us a little of your time as a volunteer? You’ll have incredible fun and help inspire a new generation."

1st Wheathampstead’s Group Scout Leader Karen Oxley described why she enjoys being a Scout Leader.

She said: “It is such a feeling of achievement when you see the look of joy on a young person's face after they complete their first abseil or manage to light a camp fire. It just brings a smile to my face every time.”