West Lancashire Scouts have awarded 50 girls and boys ages 10 to 14 their Chief Scout Award. This is the highest award attainable for their age. The presentation took place in the new £42Million West Lancashire College in Skelmersdale. Mrs Gail Stanley MBE, JP, DL, presented the awards and Cllr Rob Bailey Mayor of West Lancashire BC offered congratulations.

The event focused on the fun, commitment and personal development the Scouts gained from the award. The award encompass the essence of Scouting, which gives young people the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities from; volunteering, climbing, hiking, rafting, kayaking and even attending international camps in places such as Sweden and Austria.

Tom, 14, Ormskirk said “Through the award I was given the opportunity to volunteer with the younger Scouts (aged 6-8) this has given me leaderships skills and made me more confidence. Scouting has allowed me to take part in skiing and overnight hiking, experience that have changed my life”

“Scouting is not all badges it’s what’s behind these awards; the fun; the friendship and the adventure. Scouting is making a difference to the life’s 10,000 young people across Lancashire and offers fantastic opportunities to millions globally.” Former Awardee and Guest Speaker on the night Harry, 16, Preston

‘As a society, we do tend to get bogged down with ‘you can’t do this, you can’t do that’ and I think it’s a shame – kids lose out on so much of the magic of the outdoors. I want kids to learn how to start fires without matches, build camps, and climb mountains. Our ancestors had these skills for generations and now we are in danger of losing them.’ says Chief Scout Bear Grylls.

If you would like to volunteer with us Scouting or would like your child to join visitwww.scouts.org.uk/join or call 01995613361

To follow-up this press release, ring Andrew King on 07818201471