The date of the official opening of a scout hall which has suffered two break-ins during construction has been set.

Later this month the £300,000 hall will be unveiled with an afternoon of celebration at the site, on the corner of Hollybush Hill, Snaresbrook, and High Street, Wanstead.

During the nights of August 8 and August 28, thieves broke in and stole tools worth over £25,000, and their replacements.

Paul Plane, chairman of Epping Forest South District Scout Council, spoke of his shock and described the actions of the burglars as “barely believable”.

Work to demolish the building started in April this year and the brand new hall was set to open on August 31.

But after a delay caused by the burglaries it has now been confirmed that the official opening, which is invitation only, will take place from 3pm on October 18.