His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent, President of the Scout Association, honoured Mersey Weaver scout volunteers’ dedicated work in the community with the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service during a special ceremony at The Heath Business and Technical Park in Runcorn.

The Duke of Kent presented Mersey Weaver District with the royal badge of honour – the equivalent of an MBE – in recognition for their work in ‘helping young people achieve personal development skills through events and activities’. It is the highest award given to voluntary groups in the UK.

After the awards ceremony, His Royal Highness chatted to representatives of Mersey Weaver District to find out more about their voluntary work.

The award was received on behalf of the district by District Commissioner John Duley.

“This is a tremendous honour for the district, especially so with the presentation being made by the Duke of Kent. We are delighted that the many hours of volunteering carried out by our members and the difference we make to our communities have been recognised in this way,” said John.

Also attending the presentation was the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, David Briggs, who said: ”The work of the group benefits hundreds of families and the wider community by encouraging young people to act responsibly, and helping them to develop into responsible citizens of the future.”