Scouts in Kingskerswell are hoping their Georgestock Festival, due to be held today in the parish meadows, will quite literally hit new heights.

The event, featuring five live bands, is being held to mark St George's Day, May Day and Easter with the Royal wedding as an added bonus.

When faced with the question of how to keep the musicians dry should it rain scout leaders Richard Butterworth, Lucy Bennett and Steve Michaels fell back on what they knew best and decided to build a giant bivouac.

A little research soon discovered that there was no world record for the tallest temporary shelter so having logged their intention with the Guinness Book of Records team, Kingskerswell's 10ft effort could set a benchmark that future record-breakers have to beat.

'Although there is a category no one has yet set the record so once we've built it we've got to send off our evidence and then it will be checked by a specialist,' said Mr Michaels.

'We should know in four to six weeks whether we've set the world record.'

Members of the 1st Kingskerswell Scout Group have already had a practice run and were yesterday due to rebuild the bivouac in situ.

They have had to make some changes from the sort of structure that might be thrown up by a backpacker hoping for a little protection from the elements for a night.

'It will be made from smooth sawn pioneering poles that have to be bolted together for health and safety reasons to prevent the roof crashing down on the performers,' said Mr Michaels.

'We'll then cover it with plastic sheeting and top it off with ferns for a traditional look.'

Up to 1,000 youngsters are expected to attend the festival, which is due to begin at 5pm.

Earlier, the venue is to play host to a community family party at which Mr Michaels said a further 1,000 people were hoped for.