STAINDROP scouts were treated to an inspirational talk from adventurer Ian Usher as part of a weekend of events to raise funds to rebuild the village’s Scout and Guide HQ.

More than 65 people turned out to see Mr Usher, a former scout from Barnard Castle, as he talked about his new book, 7 Simple Steps to Goal Achieving Success, and signed copies to help the cause.

He has been selected as the scouts’ Young People's Champion and made headlines back in 2008 after selling his “entire life” on eBay.

Now he lives on a Caribbean Island and will be keeping in touch with the scouts over Facetime while setting them 100 tasks as part of a special challenge over the next year.

Scouts spokeswoman Jacqui Nicholson said: “It was a very good night and he’s such a nice guy and very down to earth and kept the kids interested.”

The talk was the second event of the weekend after a gig was held in Scarth Hall on Saturday night by Oily Bum Print.

The scouts also held a bag pack which helped towards the final weekend fundraising total of £1265.

To buy a copy of Mr Usher’s book, costing £6, call Ms Nicholson on 07834370780 or email jacqui.nicholson@btinternet.com