Worcester scammer Scouts leader admits fraud

Robert Sidley removed £200,000 from funds ringfenced for a 'once-in-a-lifetime' trip, for 100 children, at Hereford and Worcester Scouts.

Each scout had paid upwards of £2,000 for the two-week expedition to Canada, which was set to take place in July or August before being cancelled early in 2026, when the organisation reported their concerns to West Mercia Police and the Charities Commission.

The 46-year-old pleaded guilty to fraud at Worcester Crown Court, where he received a 32 month prison sentence, suspended for two years. He was also instructed to complete 220 hours unpaid work.

Tom Edwards reports.

A spokesperson for the Scouts has since confirmed all 'appropriate refunds have now been made. When concerns became known to us, we took immediate action to ensure that no young person or family was left out of pocket.'

Image credit: Getty Images/Tim Graham