TWO Scout groups joined together over a mutual love of food.

The 4th Rochford Scout troop met with its Valencian Scout counterpart when a Scout leader from the Spanish branch visited Rochford to judge and present prizes at their inter patrol cooking competition.

The Spanish group’s leader, Franklin Hildago-Meen, brought with him a selection of Spanish Scouting items as prizes, as well as mementos to present to the leaders of the groups.

He became a Queen’s Scout before emigrating to Spain 20 years ago and taking his experience of UK Scouting to Valencia.

Lyn Smee, of 4th Rochford Scout troop, said: “The Scout hall was filled with the aromas of chilli con carne, meatballs and chocolate mud cake in a mug.

“We’ve already exchanged cards, greetings and videos at Christmas.

“We hope the two groups can now forge a bond of friendship, with the end product being an opportunity to organise exchange camps and various activities to entertain and educate.”