Chief Scout Bear Grylls Congratulates Louise Bryson from Hartlepool on Ultimate Scouting Award

The Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Mr Andrew Try joined Bear Grylls in congratulating Louise on achieving the highest award in Scouting for adventure and skill development, the King’s Scout Award.

Scouts were also joined by fellow ambassadors Dwayne Fields, Ellie Simmonds and Warwick Davies in front of family and friends in what was a fantastic celebration of achievement.

The Award is presented for outstanding personal achievement and is achieved by Scouts aged between 16 and 25 years old.

The 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, developing an existing talent, or learning some new skills to build on what they have already learnt in the Scouts. The impact they are having in their local communities is evident from the work they have completed with the volunteering they have each carried out.

Mr Gryllssaid: “I am so proud to celebrate the achievements of the King’s Scouts here today at Windsor. Gaining this award is the pinnacle of their Scouting journey. Louise has demonstrated courage and kindness, alongside a true never give up spirit, and shown Scouting values to the highest of standards.

"They’ve 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.”

Young people such as Louise will have shown dedication and a willingness to learn all they can, which will provide them with opportunities to gain skills for life.

King’s Scout Louise said: “My King’s Scout Award has prepared me for life in so many ways.

"I am able to relate to people, connect with the wider community, have built a real confidence in myself and know how to take on an adventure and never give up.

"The award has given me so many opportunities, I have visited Japan and Jerusalem and learnt so many skills such as teamwork, leadership, making friends, planning and cooking meals – it’s really great when you live away the first time as you are so well prepared for the adventure!’

Scout Ambassador and polar explorer Dwayne Fields, who was also in attendance, said: “A huge congratulations to Louise from Hartlepool, on achieving their King’s Scout Award - the pinnacle achievement in Scouts.

"Louise 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.

"Their Scout spirit shines so bright today here at our annual Day of Celebration and Achievement at Windsor Castle, one of the true highlights of the Scout year.

"Louise is one of our leaders of the future and it’s humbling and inspiring to be alongside them on such a special day.”

The annual Windsor Castle event has been held since 1934 on the Sunday nearest to St George's Day.

St George is the Patron Saint of Scouting as well as England.