Eager Beaver

Ben, who is a member of the Beaver Colony of Hatch Warren Scout Group, was honoured with a special presentation for all his achievements earlier this month.

As well as gaining all the badges available to Beavers, he managed to get a special award in the process.

Ben, who has been described as a shining example by club leaders, received the Chief Scout's Bronze Award.

The youngster also received his Creative Activity badge before being presented with the bronze award, bringing the number of badges he has collected to nine.

Ben had to complete two challenging activities and a personal achievement in order to receive the prestigious bronze award.

Basingstoke West district commissioner Justin Tarrant presented Ben with his activity badge and then the Chief Scout's Bronze Award.

Mr Tarrant said: "The Chief Scout Award is the top award in each section. Ben's achievement is excellent - he's a shining example and is somebody for others to try to emulate.

"It's not only the bronze award that he's achieved - it's every other award you can get in Beavers and that is unusual. It's the first time I've heard of anyone getting that."

The group, whose colony meets at Hatch Warren Community Centre, in Long Cross Lane, Hatch Warren, Basingstoke, were delighted with Ben's progress.

The Chief Scout Award is part of a progressive training programme which was only introduced by the Scout Association two years ago.

As part of the programme, Beavers attain a bronze award, Cubs a silver award and Scouts a gold award by undertaking a series of challenges suited to their age range.

After receiving the award, Ben, who learnt to ski for his personal achievement, said: "I felt excited and proud. I like being a Beaver because of the fun and games and I've some good friends here."

First published: Friday, April 29, 2005