It was a proud and inspiring evening as young people from across the county gathered to celebrate achieving the prestigious King’s Scout Award (KSA)—the highest award in Scouting.
The event welcomed recipients, their families, leaders, and special guests including County Lead Volunteer Greg and members of the County Team. With growing interest in the award and increased support through the County registration system, more young people than ever are taking on this incredible challenge.
A total of 17 young people from the county will attend the Windsor Parade this year, with many of those recognised on the night preparing to represent the county later this month.
“These young people have shown exceptional commitment, resilience and dedication throughout their journey. The King’s Scout Award is not easily achieved, and each of them should be incredibly proud. They truly represent the very best of Scouting and are an inspiration to others.”
— Andy Carr, Top Awards Manager
Celebrating Our King’s Scout Award Recipients
Leon Angus (South Tyneside)
Leon combined his KSA journey with completing his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. He contributed widely through charity work with an international water aid organisation, supported campsite service teams, and led activities for younger Scouts. His commitment to community, leadership, and service stands out, alongside supporting camps and promoting remembrance activities.
George Anderson (Teesdale District)
George’s achievements include attending the World Scout Jamboree in South Korea and completing conservation work in Kielder Forest. Alongside earning his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, he supported younger Scouts, developed a wildlife area with his church, and pushed his personal limits through expeditions and swimming.
Bethany Frazer (Blaydon District)
Bethany has shown exceptional dedication to Scouting, giving back throughout her entire journey. From leading at the World Scout Jamboree to supporting local environmental projects and running international activities for Beavers, her impact on younger members has been significant and lasting.
Jennifer Thompson (Darlington & Sunderland Districts)
Jenny’s achievements are truly remarkable—earning not only her King’s Scout Award and Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, but also the Scouts of the World Award and Explorer Belt. She has contributed at a national level, supported programme development, and now leads as County Youth Team Lead, demonstrating outstanding leadership and commitment.
Jack White (Durham City District)
Jack has made a strong impact through community service, volunteering with children with additional needs, organising local initiatives, and supporting camps. Alongside international experiences and expeditions, his dedication to helping others has been central to his journey.
Meghan Copstake (Durham City District)
Meghan balanced international experiences, community volunteering, and faith-based youth work throughout her award. From supporting Cubs to leading sessions for younger children, she has consistently demonstrated leadership and a passion for service.
Oliver Davies (Durham City District)
Oliver’s journey has taken him around the world—from Switzerland to Nepal—where he supported community projects including school development. Closer to home, he has helped grow Scouting locally and now continues his involvement as a leader.
Archie Smith (Darlington District)
Archie has made a significant contribution at both group and district level. From attending the World Scout Jamboree to organising events and leading programmes for Cubs, he has shown strong leadership and a commitment to developing others.
Ethan Cowey (Houghton-le-Spring District)
Ethan has embraced international Scouting opportunities, including the World Scout Moot, while also strengthening his local community through events, service teams, and recruitment initiatives. His leadership and enthusiasm have made a lasting difference.
The evening concluded with each recipient being presented with their King’s Scout Award certificate and County necker, a symbol of their achievement and a reminder of their place within an exclusive group of Scouts.
As they prepare to attend the Windsor Parade, these young people not only celebrate their own success but also set an inspiring example for others to follow—demonstrating the true meaning of Skills for Life.
If you’re inspired to take on the King’s Scout Award yourself, you can find out more here.
