The prestigious Gold Award has just been presented to six plucky youngsters from the 3rd Elstree and Borehamwood Scout group.

The award, one of the highest a Scout can earn, was handed to the Year Eight Scouts after they planned and carried out an expedition. It counts towards the Chief Scout Gold Award.

Scout Josh Solomon said: "A lot of planning and hard work went into this expedition, and we all feel this is a great achievement.

"We started out hiking for six miles from Phasels Wood to Leeswood campsite. Our route was well planned out and we used compasses and maps.

"The hike there took us about four hours, but the journey back took us about three, considering we knew the route a lot better and that our rucksacks were a lot lighter from all the food.

"When we got there we rested, then pitched our tents and set up camp.

"We had a barbecue for dinner and after that, in the evening made a 15ft fire.

"The next morning we went rifle shooting. Then did our site duties.

"We packed up camp and left about 2pm for the hike back to Phasels Wood.

"We all had a great time and look forward to starting a group of Explorers in January."