Bathscouts News -

A Scout leader from Southdown has been presented with the movement's top award for personal achievement.

Daniel Gooch, from Coronation Avenue, has already achieved several milestones within the Scouting organisation.

But he has now received the Queen's Scout Award, which is only presented to those showing the highest possible level of personal commitment.

Award holders have to demonstrate extremely high standards of self-discipline and achievement in community service, activities and interests.

Self-reliance and personal initiative are also key aspects of the award.

Only members of Scouting's two senior sections - Explorer Scouts and the Scout Network - are eligible.

Mr Gooch, a computer science student at the University of Bath, was a member of the Explorer Scouts between 2003 and 2004.

He became a member of the Scout Network through his work with Bath University Guides and Scouts (Bugs).

With the Scouts he has spent many nights away on camping trips in the Lake District and also with the Bugs freshers' camp in Cleve Hill.

He has also helped run activities for Cubs to help them attain their global conservation badges and international awards.

Mr Gooch holds a gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, for which he trained in the Korean martial art of Tang Soo Do.

In working towards that accolade, he has also had to carry out conservation work in the Peak District.