A TEENAGER has been presented with the highest Scouting award after completing an array of challenges, including gutting a pheasant.

Owen Fielding, of Hillside Scouts in Knayton, near Thirsk, has been presented with the Chief Scout’s Gold Award at a kayaking session at Thirsk Swimming Pool.

The 14-year-old, from Northallerton, has been involved with Scouting since the age of six, progressing from Beavers and Cubs to Scouts. To achieve the award, the Teesside High School pupil completed tasks to benefit the community, such as cleaning at Allertonshire School, in Northallerton, went on an expedition and learned about issues ranging from recycling to healthy eating.

Owen said his abiding memory of working towards the award would be hiking on top of the North York Moors with his friends, and plucking and gutting a pheasant.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed being a Scout at Hillside. I’m sad to be leaving my friends behind, but I’ve had a lot of fun and a lot of laughs.”