British Scout aged 12 collapses and dies during Finnish summer camp trip
A BRITISH Scout aged twelve-years-old has collapsed and died at a summer camp in Finland.
Charlie Girling was taking part in the International Jamboree, Roihu 2016, when he fell ill.
He died despite the efforts of onsite medics and emergency services who battled to save his life.
Charlie was a member of the 1st Aylesford Scouts in Kent and it is thought his mother Helene Girling is one of the group's leaders.
Scout Association spokesman Simon Carter said: "On Sunday evening, while in camp, a young male Scout collapsed.
"The on-site medical team and paramedics from the local hospital rendered immediate support but unfortunately were unable to save him."
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of this young Scout during this difficult and challenging time
He continued: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of this young Scout during this difficult and challenging time.
"The Scout Association (UK) is in touch with all the families of the young people attending the international Finnish national jamboree from Kent, ensuring they are fully briefed and supported.
"We will be working with the Finnish Scout movement and the relevant local authorities to establish the full details of this tragic incident."
Around 650 British Scouts from 19 different groups were at the nine-day camp which draws together over 16,000 participants in total and is said to be Finland’s biggest youth festival.
A memorial was held at the camp near the town of Hämeenlinna, 63 miles north of the capital Helsinki, with mourners gathering at the main stage and the camp chapel to pay their respects.
The Kent Scouts are currently on their way home, following the tragedy.
Anna Munsterhjelm, chief scout of the Guides and Scouts of Finland, expressed condolences to the boy's family and friends, adding: "The loss has moved thousands of people within and outside the camp.
"We are grateful, that the scout movement is a homogenous global community that has the strength to support one another even in difficult situations.
"We will create a better world by working together - in both good and bad times. We wish that every scout in and outside the camp will help to bear the grief of the family and friends."
