A SCOUT was recognised for achieving a top award by survival expert and adventurer, Bear Grylls.
Amy Main, of Llanrwst, received the honour from chief scout Bear at a special event at Windsor Castle. Bear was the UK’s youngest ever Chief Scout when he was appointed in 2009, aged 34.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Berkshire, Andrew Try, joined Bear in congratulating Amy on achieving the highest award in Scouting for adventure and skill development, the Queen’s Scout Award [now called the King's Scout Award].
Scouts were also joined by fellow Ambassadors Dwayne Fields, Ellie Simmonds and Megan Hines as well as family and friends.
Tv presenter Bear said: "I am so proud to celebrate the achievements of the King’s Scouts at Windsor. Gaining this award is the pinnacle of their scouting journey.
"Amy has demonstrated courage and kindness, alongside a true 'never give up' spirit, and shown scouting values to the highest of standards.
"They’ve [the scouts] have contributed hugely to their communities and developed many skills along the way.
"These scouts are an inspiration to us all due to their commitment, enthusiasm and hard work.
"I am full of pride for every single one of them."
The award is presented for outstanding personal achievement and is achieved by Scouts aged between 16 and 25 years old. Amy is 26 but completed the award when she was 25.
Young people have to complete a range of challenges, including service to their community, an expedition in wild country, a five-day residential project in a new environment, develop an existing talent, or learn new skills to build on what they have already learnt in the Scouts.
Amy said: "Gaining my Queen’s Scout Award has given me so many opportunities to expand knowledge and skills for my chosen career in the outdoors. It has allowed me insight into how the industry runs through being on my own residential and also through the expeditions I have completed.
"I have been able to look at the bigger picture of how nature, environment and the outdoor industry can all work alongside each other. I’ve gained confidence, skills and experience."
Dwayne, Polar Explorer, who was also in attendance, said: "A huge congratulations to Amy from on achieving her Queen’s Scout Award - the pinnacle achievement in Scouts.
"Amy has reached the end of an incredible journey where they have demonstrated kindness, courage and commitment.
"They’ve helped other people, supported their local community, tested their limits and learned new skills along the way."
The annual Windsor Castle event has been held since 1934 on the Sunday nearest to St George's Day (April 23).
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St George is the Patron Saint of Scouting as well as England. The award has transitioned back to the King’s Scout Award in 2023 following the sad loss of HM Queen Elizabeth II.
More than 100,000 Queen’s Scout Awards were presented to young men and women for outstanding personal achievements and service to their local communities during its 71 year reign. The awardees have all learnt new life skills and developed them into what will one day be useful for their future lives and careers.
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