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 in 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.

This represents a considerable amount and variety of work put in by the Scout.

To achieve the award the Teesside High School pupil completed tasks to benefit the community, such as cleaning at Allertonshire School, went on an expedition and learnt 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 for his tea.

He said he particularly enjoyed the fitness challenges and kayaking on the River Ure.

Owen said he would recommend Scouting to anyone.

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."