Seven Hampshire Scouts have received the organisations’ top honour at Windsor Castle.

Joined by The Duke of Kent Prince Edward in honouring them, the Queen Scout award is the highest goal a Scout can achieve.

Awarded for outstanding personal achievement, seven Scouts aged between 16 and 25 were congratulated by the Duke and chief Scout Bear Grylls.

Oliver Bills, from Southampton said: “I left school with very little confidence. Scouting has completely changed my life, pushing myself to try new experiences, gain new skills and meet new people.

“Learning to put a tent up and navigate has helped me to reach new heights. I’ve now even taken on a student representation role at university, and I’m currently organising a Scouting adventure to Switzerland for other members.”

Chief Scout and adventurer, Bear Grylls said: “All these young people have strived so hard to learn new skills and achieve their Queen’s Scout awards, and I am full of admiration for their spirit, grit and determination.

“They have all served their community, lead others and undertaken expeditions in the UK and around the world. As Queen’s Scouts they are massive inspirations to over half a million Scouts in the UK and I am so pleased that Scouting has honoured them today. They are truly amazing.”

The annual Windsor Castle event has been held regularly since 1934 on the Sunday nearest the most important day in the Scouting calendar; St George’s Day.

Amy Hasted, from Ringwood said: “I had many adventures along the way including experiencing apocalyptic weather on Dartmoor. We had to use our storm shelter, which we had never done before.

“I also volunteered in Africa, where I got involved in local community projects and teaching Malawian Scouts first aid and navigation skills.”

More than 100,000 Queen Scouts awards have been presented to young men and women since the award was instigated.