FOUR members from West Linton Scout Group are celebrating after achieving the highest award available to Scouts.

The youngsters, Harris Merson, Euan Cackett, Roddy Bell and Joe Hall, were mentored through nine individual challenge badges by Scout leader Andy Hall, before receiving the Chief Scout Gold Award at a presentation earlier this month.

The presentation of these top awards coincided with the Scout Christmas post delivery service throughout West Linton.

More than 4,000 cards were received, thanks to West Linton Post Office, sorted by the ex-Rotarians, and distributed by the Scouts and Cubs themselves.

Linda Gray from West Linton Scout Group said: “The community responded as it has done in previous years with generous donations in excess of £820. Thanks to everyone for supporting this fundraising effort.

“All three Scouting sections, the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts are thriving in West Linton – and there has just been a great boost to the leadership teams with another eight new leaders coming on board to help to continue to deliver excellent Scouting to almost 100 youngsters in and around the village.”