TWO members of a Newton Aycliffe scout group have been presented with the highest award available to a scout.

Ben Kelsey, from Newton Aycliffe, and Michael Drew, from Ferryhill, have gained the Chief Scout Award.

Ben and Michael, both members of the 1st Newton Aycliffe Scout Group, were presented with their awards by the Chief Scout, George Purdy, at the Bethany Christian Centre, in Houghton-le-Spring.

It is the first time for several years that the Chief Scout has visited County Durham to present the awards, which come after a number of years of work by participants.

The event also marked the first time that the Chief Scout had worn the association's new uniform in this country.

Other members will begin to wear the changed uniform during the next two years.

Michael was a member of 1st Ferryhill Scout Group until the lack of a leader meant that he had to transfer to Newton Aycliffe.

The Ferryhill group is still providing Scouting for Beaver and Cub Scouts.

The 1st Newton Aycliffe Scout Group provides Scouting from the age of six upwards, and is based at the community centre in Woodham.