SCOUT leaders were today celebrating after community resolve led to a successful scout fete despite a series of disasters hitting the event.The 36th Ipswich Scout fete was held at Sprites School and although thousands of people attended it did not always seem the day would go to plan.

SCOUT leaders were today celebrating after community resolve led to a successful scout fete despite a series of disasters hitting the event.

The 36th Ipswich Scout fete was held at Sprites School and although thousands of people attended it did not always seem the day would go to plan.

First the band pulled out of the procession and then the event trailer was stolen from the organisers' drive.

Pam Marsh, scout leader, said: "The trailer contained more than £300 of stuff for the fete. We were let down three times and I said the final straw would be the trailer being pinched."

After ten months of organising the day seemed doomed to failure but the problems were soon remedied - Ipswich company Indispension volunteered the use of their trailer and a group of morris dancers joined the procession.

Mrs Marsh added: "We are more than grateful to the people who came and supported us and the fact the trailer was stolen made us realise the strength and friendship we have got in the scout group - it is great, it really is."

The group are expecting to get the lost money back through their insurance and the Co-op has donated £25 towards the stolen refreshments.

It is not yet known how much was raised from the day but last year the event raised nearly £3,000 for the group.

Other than a couple of showers, the day passed successfully and there was even a surprise for Mrs Marsh and husband, Tony.

The couple were both presented with unsung hero awards by Ipswich mayor Roger Fern.

Mrs Marsh added: "Between us we have had 62 years in the Scouts.

"I was pleased with the award and it was unexpected. It was very kind of the mayor to do that. I don't do things for the recognition but you have to appreciate people appreciate what you do."

The trailer registration P790 OUT, was stolen from Sheldrake Drive between 5-7am on Thursday .

Anyone with information about the incident should call Pc Amanda Hazell at Ipswich police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.