ALTON Scout Luke Gavin has been presented with the prestigious Queen’s Scout Award.

Luke, 18, who is a member of the 8th Alton Scout group, received the highest award in Scouting from Hampshire County Scout Commissioner Adam Jollins during a meeting at The Cabin in Anstey Park.

Each year in the UK only the most dedicated and hardworking are awarded the Queen’s Scout Award for their achievements.

To earn this award, Luke has taken part in long expeditions and international events such as the Japanese jamboree. Meeting the criteria for the award requires a huge amount of commitment as participants must spend at least 18 nights away and complete a variety of challenges over the course of around 12 months.

Sue How, the 8th Alton Group Scout leader, said: “Luke has been a part of Scouting for 12 years and during this time he has not only achieved a lot personally but has invested his free time inspiring and helping younger members of the group, running kayaking evenings and supporting various events.”

Luke, who lives in the town and is currently studying at Alton College, will have the opportunity to go to Windsor Castle later in the year to celebrate his achievement.