A DRAKES BROUGHTON scout has received a prestigious award from adventurer Bear Grylls for his ‘outstanding’ personal achievement.
21-year-old Mark Grimes joined nine other Hereford and Worcester Scout County group members in receiving the Queen’s Scouts Award at Windsor Castle on Sunday, April 24.
The former Pershore High School student, who has been a scout since the age of six, is currently studying at the University of Edinburgh and is a ‘network’ scout – the fifth and final youth section of The Scout Association.
Before leaving for university Mr Grimes was leader of the Peopleton Scout Group and is currently an assistant scout leader in Edinburgh.
He has taken part in a variety of activities and adventures, including attending the World Scout Jamboree in Sweden in 2011 and the World Scout Moot in Canada in 2013.
The Queen’s Scout Award is the highest honour in scouting and is awarded to those who have completed a range of challenges, including service to their community, an expedition in wild country, undertaking a five day residential project in an unfamiliar environment and learning a new skill.
Also rewarded with the accolade were Michael Petta from the Evesham District and Tom Neachell from the Worcester District.
Dr Derek Barnes, county commissioner for Hereford and Worcester Scout County said: “It’s fantastic to see these ten young adults, who have worked so hard to achieve their Queen’s Scout Awards, recognised in this way.
“I’m sure they had a great day to remember at Windsor as it’s a tremendous achievement.”
Chief scout Bear Grylls said: “All these young people have lived the adventure of a lifetime to achieve their Queen’s Scout Awards and I admire their spirit so much.
“They are a huge inspiration to more than half a million scouts in the UK and I’m so pleased they have been honoured.”
