SIX Salisbury Scouts have thanked their leaders after they achieved the highest award available in the scout section.

The Chief Scout’s Gold Awards were given to six members of the 3rd Salisbury Sea Scout Group.

Isabelle, Ella, Freya, Arabella, Eva and Clara were presented their awards by their leader’s group lead volunteer Paul Hughes (Skip) and team member Hugh Sturdy during the recent AGM of the Scout Group at their headquarters in St Marks Avenue, Salisbury.

The girls took the time to reflect on their experiences within the scouts, highlighting some of the activities they enjoyed most – including sailing, camping, Christmas box packing, cooking and teamwork.

Clara, one of the award recipients, gave the following speech at the ceremony.

“Today I just wanted to thank all of my amazing leaders, especially Skip and Hugh for everything they’ve done for us as scouts,” she said.

“From rainy camps and expeditions to learning sailing theory at the hut, I’ve absolutely loved every second of being a scout, and I truly believe Skip and Hugh were the pillars of those achievements and adventures.

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“Skip, thank you for having your confidence and trust in us. Believing that we’d win gross trophies and most recently, strategy camp- and still congratulating us when we got 71st place.

“What we did consistently win, though, was the raft races and shooting competitions, and for that, I’d like to thank Skip for his encouragement and resilience.

A handwritten note, written by scout Freya Picture: Mark Warner

“I’m convinced Hugh is not capable of any other facial expression other than the big smile he carries everywhere and we all appreciate the constant high spirits and happiness he brings to the troop.

“Throughout my time at scouts Hugh has shown outstanding commitment to sailing and making sure we all do as many sessions as possible, while organising trips to Portland. Thank you Hugh

“Overall thank you both for teaching us so much and taking so much time out of your own lives to keep this troop running. I honestly wouldn’t be the person I am today without being a scout, and I will carry the skills I’ve learnt with me for a very long time.”

Mark Warner, the PR & Media Team Lead, said: “To achieve the award the scouts have to complete nine challenge awards which are the outdoor, adventure, world, creative, personal, expedition, skills, team leader and teamwork.

“To complete these awards takes a consistent commitment over their whole time in the Scout Section.

“The activities include an expedition, creative activities such as photography, eight nights of camping, fire lighting, use of axe and saw, local heritage and environmental projects, working as a team and competing in new activities.”