A GREENOCK scout is well prepared for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the USA.

Alex Wiseman, 12, is one of the youngest people to be chosen to attend the 24th World Scout Jamboree in West Virginia next year.

The youngster, a member of the 32nd Greenock and District Scout Group, is excited about his American adventure.

Alex said: “I think it will be a great experience.

“It will help me with my leadership skills.

“It’s kind of exciting but a bit nerve-wracking being away from my family for two and a half weeks.”

Alex, a Clydeview Academy pupil, has to raise £3,900 for the trip and the whole family have been pitching in to help by bag-packing every other Saturday at B&M.

He also held a bake sale at his school and has been busy selling raffle tickets.

The collection stands at £2,100 and the family are planning a quiz night in April as part of the final push.

Alex lives with his parents Hazel and Tommy in Tasker Street and has an older brother Shaun, 13, and sister Laura, who’s 24.

He will be based at The Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia and will also get the opportunity to visit Washington or New York and spend time in Canada doing community work.

Alex, who runs for Glenpark Harriers along with his brother Shaun, had to go through a four-hour selection process before being picked.

He impressed with his Gaelic speaking, having learned the language in Whinhill Primary.

Mum Hazel, 47, a finance officer with Ocean Youth Trust, said: “I think it’s amazing that he’s been chosen. I didn’t think he would have been because of his age — he’ll be 14 when he goes next year.

“He’s a caring boy and I think Whinhill Primary has been very good for him. 

“I think it is a very nurturing environment and it’s helped to shape Alex and made him the boy he is. He sees the jamboree as the ideal opportunity to gain lots of new skills for the future in order to give back to the community and support others.”

Alex is seeking sponsorship and is happy to visit backers to give a talk beforehand and report back after his trip.

The quiz night is being held on Friday April 27 at Greenock Morton Supporters’ Club.

To book tickets call Hazel on 07788 413593.

Alex also has a sponsorship page where pledges can be made online — at www.gofundme.com/taaxa-2019-world-scout-jamboree