Archives: Three Inverclyde scouts met TV star Bear Grylls

Scout leaders Mark Sinnamon and Chris McDermott, from Northface Explorer Unit, and Jonathan Webb from the 80th Greenock and District group, had won the highest Scouting honour — the Queen’s Scout award.

And Chief Scout and TV star Bear Grylls carried out the presentation at a ceremony in London.

At the prestigious event, held in London’s Science Museum, the Inverclyde boys joined 145 scouts from across the UK to have ‘Breakfast with Bear’ before they were presented with their award.

Bear Grylls congratulated all the youngsters on their accomplishments.

He said: “As Queen’s Scouts you have reached the pinnacle of Scouting, it is the highest award possible.

“You are the elite, so I ask you not to underestimate your achievements.

“I challenge you to use these skills to reach the top in life.”

The Queen’s Scout award is awarded to Scouts between 16 and 25 years old who have completed a range of adventurous challenges, including service to their community, an expedition in wild country, a five-day residential project in an unfamiliar environment and learning a new skill or developing an existing talent.

Each of the Inverclyde boys undertook different skill activities.

Chris gained his SPA permit in rock climbing. Mark went on the RYA boating and motor cruising course for craft up to 40 metres and ultimately gained the RYA Day Skipper Certificate.

Jonathan developed his photography skills, capturing the fauna and flora around the Scottish countryside.

An expedition to Arran for five days and four nights saw the boys cope with difficult terrain and challenging weather conditions.

And they produced a video diary to help other young people complete the award. UK Chief Commissioner, Wayne Bulpitt, who presented the awards, was thrilled with their achievements.

He said: “It’s great to be celebrating the successes of these scouts who have worked incredibly hard to get to this point. The Queen’s Scouts can go on to be Britain’s leaders of the future.”