A Brownie group is off on a cultural trip to France this month thanks to sponsorship that gave their fundraising efforts a much needed boost.

The group made up of youngsters from 1st Devizes Brownies, 2nd Devizes Brownies and 4th Devizes Guides had been planning a trip to Paris for more than a year when their funds were affected by a handful of unavoidable drop-outs causing the cost of the excursion to increase considerably.

Despite undertaking a range of fundraising activities including bag packing in local supermarkets, sponsored swims, and a number of bake sales, the Brownie group was still in need of a final push to pay for clothing.

But Five Rivers Fostering came to their rescue to make sure they look the part on the trip during which they will work towards their World Traveller badge a reality.

The business has paid for matching hoodies for the girls.

Brownie leader Donna Taylor, who is also a foster carer with Fiver Rivers Fostering, got the private fostering organisation involved. Fostering services manager Jem Orman said: "Being able to offer this gesture to ensure the Brownies and their leaders can enjoy their trip is a real pleasure and privilege. We hope everyone else headed to Paris has a lovely time.”

The group has also received funding from Roundway Parish Council, Wiltshire Lodge of Fidelity, and Devizes Freemasons.

The group will set off for France on April 14.