A SCOUT from Bromsgrove has been honoured by TV adventurer and chief scout Bear Grylls at Windsor Castle for gaining their Queen’s Scouts Award.

The award is the highest honour in scouting, and is given out to youngsters between the ages of 16 and 25 for outstanding personal achievement, after they’ve completed a range of challenges, including service to their community, completing an expedition in wild country, undertaking a five-day residential project in an unfamiliar environment,and learning a new skill or developing an existing talent.

Bromsgrove Scout Network member Simon Fox went along to Windsor Castle on Sunday to accept the honour.

Derek Barnes, county commissioner for Hereford and Worcester, said: “It is fantastic to see these young adults, who have worked so hard to achieve their Queen’s Scout Awards, recognised in this way. I hope they have a great day to remember at Windsor on Sunday. A tremendous achievement for each one of them. Well done.”

Chief scout Bear Grylls, added: "All these young people have lived the adventure of a lifetime to achieve their Queen’s Scout Awards, and I admire that spirit so much. They are huge inspirations to over half a million scouts in the UK and I am so pleased that scouting has honoured them today. They are amazing.”

Scouting in Bromsgrove increased its youth membership by seven per cent last year, and is looking for volunteers to help accommodate more than 100 other youngsters in the district, who would like to join scouting groups.

Volunteers in scouting, can fit the role around work and family commitments, as well as receiving free training. If anyone is interested in working as a volunteer, they should write to info@bromsgrovescouts.org.uk.