An Enfield scout has won the most prestigious scouting award that can be honoured in this country.

Jagz Bharth of Lansbury Road, Brimsdown, is the first Enfield scout in recent history to receive the Queen's Scout Award.

The 17-year-old gained the award after completing a number of hiking, musical and leadership challenges in the last three years.

To achieve this prestigious honour, scouts have to take on leadership, community and adventure activities.

A member of the Parker Bowles Explorer Scout unit in Freezywater – Jagz has completed numerous challenges since joining the group eleven years ago - including an expedition in the Amazon Rainforest in Peru.

He said:  “The most challenging part during my award was the expedition in 33°C heat. I would like to say thank you to everyone that has helped me to complete this prestigious award and here’s to many more years in Scouting. Achieving this award shows that if you try you will succeed.”

Mike Thurston, district explorer scout commissioner for Enfield, said: “This is brilliant news and I'm really pleased for Jagz. I know how much effort and commitment he has put into this and to get the award whilst still an Explorer is an achievement of the highest order.

“We haven't had a Queen Scout in Enfield for many years and I'm sure this will go forward to inspire others to work towards their award, so really well done."

Bear Grylls added: “As a Queen’s scout you have reached the pinnacle of scouting. The Queen’s scout award is the highest award possible. You are the elite so I ask you not to underestimate your achievements. I challenge you to use these skills to reach the top in life.”

Mr Bharth will be attending the annual Parade of Queen Scouts which will be held on the Quadrangle of Windsor Castle in front of the Royal Family.