A scout from Stourbridge has received a prestigious award from Bear Grylls at Windsor Castle.

Ellen Sunderland was honoured by Chief Scout, Grylls, and the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Andrew Try, with the highest award in Scouting for adventure and skill development, the King’s Scout Award.

This award celebrates significant personal achievement, requiring Scouts aged between 16 and 25 to complete a series of challenges.

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Such tasks include contributing to their community, completing an expedition in wild terrain, a five-day residential project in an unfamiliar environment, developing an existing talent, or acquiring fresh skills, thereby adding to their knowledge acquired in Scouts.

Crediting Ellen, Grylls said: "Ellen 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 proud of every single one of them."

Stourbridge News:

Ellen said: "My King’s Scout Award has given me great confidence in my abilities and showed the determination I have.

"The award has allowed me to volunteer at my local Scout Group and feel a great sense of achievement as I have completed each of the sections, it has made me see how committed I have been and this has motivated me further to succeed."

The award ceremony was also attended by Scout ambassador and polar explorer, Dwayne Fields, who said: "Ellen’s Scout spirit shines so bright today here at our annual Day of Celebration and Achievement at Windsor Castle."

This annual event, which first took place in 1934, happens on the Sunday closest to St George's Day on April 23, who is the Patron Saint of Scouting.

Throughout the 71-year reign of HM Queen Elizabeth II, over 100,000 Queen's Scout Awards were awarded to remarkable young adults for their outstanding progress and service to their communities.

Scouting provides over 200 distinct activities, each structured to help young people develop vital life skills.