Chief Scout Presentation at Bexhill High

He attended the Scout Council's Chief Scout's award presentations to recipients representing Ashdown, Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings and Rye, Lewes, Seahaven and Senlac Districts.

The occasion was hosted by Senlac District. The 2nd Bexhill Sea and Air Scouts formed a guard-of-honour to greet guests.

Gold Award certificates were presented to 40 Scouts and 13 Explorers (7 Platinum Awards, Senlac, 5 Diamond Awards, 3 Senlac, 2 Lewes). Also the Queen's Scout Award was presented to Toby Phair from Eastbourne.

For the second presentation in 2008, local Explorer Scouts, Hathi Unit, 3rd Bexhill (St Michael's) and Alliance Unit, 9th Bexhill, excelled.

A welcome was extended to the High Sheriff by the Mayor of Bexhill and the Deputy Mayor of Battle, also visiting districts by Cliff Wilson, Senlac District Commissioner.

Bexhill Mayor Cllr Patrick Douart welcomed those in attendance, with reference to the warm and encouraging gathering to witness the achievements of young people.

The importance and significance of the occasion was explained by Ian Kirby, OBE, County Commissioner, East Sussex.

The Gold Award, the highest level of achievement for Scouts, aged 11 to 14, involves completion of the outdoor challenge (numerous skills) and at least six other selected challenges - outdoor plus, adventure, expedition, fitness, creative, global and community.

Completion of a personal challenge to include adventure (a new activity or achieve a higher standard in an existing activity); leadership (attend at least two troop leadership forums and achieve an action point from one meeting); commitment (take part in an activity to demonstrate personal commitment such as community activity, a Scouting activity or a hobby or interest).

For their Platinum and Diamond awards Explorer Scouts, aged 14 -18, needed to complete six nights away from home, four of which must be camping; complete two activities from international environment and values list; hold the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award or complete the four Platinum challenges - skill, physical activity, three months of service and a two day and one night expedition.

The Diamond Award requirements are repeated but at a higher standard.

The County Commissioner presented a Duke of Edinburgh's Award Certificate, followed by the Queen's Scout Certificate to Toby Phair from Eastbourne.

The High Sheriff spoke of his appreciation to leaders and parents for the support that makes possible the awards.

On behalf of recipients, Explorer Scout Amy Deeprose, Hathi Unit, Senlac District, gave a vote of thanks to guests, parents and leaders. Amy emphasised: "We should remember that without them, we would not be here today''!