COMMUNITY groups have pulled together to help a friend in need following last week's devastating fire at Marlow Guides hut.

The group has been overwhelmed with support from the town with nine organisations offering temporary accommodation and many businesses and individuals donating cash.

The blaze began at 2.30am last Thursday and razed the hut in Quarry Wood Road, Bisham, to the ground.

Sue Berry, group spokesman, said: "The overwhelming feeling is that it was a devastating thing to happen but we have been very touched by all the support we have had from the community and all the offers of help."

Bourne End Scouts have given patrol tents and are among many helpers.

Mrs Berry said the group were all saddened by the fire.

She said: "Some of them have written lovely letters to their Guiders. They are very pleased to know they are going to be able to carry on their meetings."

"We will now draw up some plans and apply for planning permission for a new purpose built brick site so it won't be susceptible to fire damage."

A member of staff from the Compleat Angler, Marlow Bridge, spotted the fire and called the fire brigade.

Police are still investigating the cause of the fire and have not ruled out a link between the hut fire and one at an office building in Bourne End.