A GROUP of Scouts from north Hampshire were among 28 honoured by Bear Grylls for achieving the top award in Scouting.

The Scouts from Tadley, Whitchurch and Basingstoke were presented the Queen's Scout Award by the international adventurer on Sunday (April 26) at Windsor Castle, joined by the Duchess of Gloucester, who is cousin of The Queen.

The award is the highest honour in Scouting and is awarded for outstanding personal achievement to those aged between 16 and 25 who have completed a range of challenges, including community service, an expedition in wild country, learning a new skill and a five-day residential project in an unfamiliar environment.

Local award winners were Sam Davidson, from Tadley, Samuel Tyler, from Whitchurch, and Anthony Stewart, Elliot Galvin and Catherine Redgrave, all from Basingstoke.

Sam said: "I am grateful to so many adult volunteers who gave their time and efforts to help us on our journey. The award has broadened my horizons on life, forced me to venture into new areas, increased my skill set and challenged me to never give up, but at the very least, had a lot of fun. I am proud to call myself a Queen's Scout and it tops off a wonderful 10 years, so far, in Scouts."

Mr Grylls said: "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 the other 550,000 Scouts in the UK and I am so pleased that both Scouting has honoured them today. They are amazing."

The awards were presented as part of the annual St George's Day event at Windsor Castle.