A SCOUT from Reading was commended at a special event last week which saw him given an award by Bear Grylls.
Conor Chippendale, from Reading, is one of the Scouts who has been awarded the King’s Scout Award at an annual ceremony in Windsor Castle.
The event which takes place on the Sunday closest to St George’s Day and has been held since 1934.
The King’s Scout Award denotes outstanding personal development, service to a scout’s community through volunteering, and the learning of new skills, and winners undergo expeditions in wild country and a five-day residential project.
Recipients were joined at the ceremony by the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Andrew Try, as well as ambassadors Ellie Simmonds, Warwick Davis, and Dwayne Fields.
Chief Scout Bear Grylls said:”I am so proud to celebrate the achievements of the King’s Scouts here today at Windsor.
“Gaining this award is the pinnacle of their Scouting journey.
“Conor 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 full of pride for every single one of them.”
Conor said: “Completing my King’s Scout Award has really prepared me for a career working in construction and quantity surveying as it has given me essential leadership skills, as well as confidence and resilience.
“I’ve helped my community as a Scout volunteer and completed my mental health first aider training, I’ve played hockey, and made many friends along the way.
“The work I have put in has developed me both professionally and personally– I have gained so many amazing skills and it’s been a fantastic journey.
Scout Ambassador and polar explorer Dwayne Fields said: “Huge congratulations to Conor from Reading, on achieving their King’s Scout Award–the pinnacle achievement in Scouts.
“Conor has reached the end of an incredible journey where they have demonstrated kindness, courage and commitment.
“They’ve helped other people, supported their local community, tested their limits and learned new skills along the way–their Scout spirit shines so bright today here at our annual Day of Celebration and Achievement at Windsor Castle, one of the true highlights of the Scout year.
“Conor is one of our leaders of the future and it’s humbling and inspiring to be alongside them on such a special day.”
