Staindrop Explorer Scouts
SAM Arundel and William Rolt are celebrating success after achieving their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
Sam and William, both 17, have been members of Staindrop Explorer Scout unit since they were 14 and these awards are the culmination of their Scouting lives which started aged six when they joined Beavers.
To gain the gold awards, Sam and William have completed five sections including volunteering, physical, skills, residential and finally the expedition.
Both undertook two expeditions in the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales.
They have attended such activities as the NCS, The Scout and Guide National Symphony Orchestra, along with helping with younger sections within the Scout movement and working in charity shops.
District Explorer Scout commissioner Andy Carr said: “Sam and William are great role models to younger members within Scouting and they are both setting a great example for future members to progress through and attain these top awards.”
Sam and William were presented their awards by County Commissioner David Stokes and County Duke of Edinburgh representative Stephen Ramsay who both spoke about the significance of this award and what it means for future life.
They were presented with their badges on Sunday, June 16, and are awaiting their invitations to receive their certificates from the royal family at either Buckingham Palace or Holyrood Palace.
Mr Carr added: “Both Sam and William are very close to completing their Queen’s Scout Awards and both are looking forward to moving on into Scout network and attending university.”