GARY Smith has achieved the highest accolade awarded by the Beavers.

Gary, aged eight, from Scammonden, has been awarded the bronze Chief Scout's Award.

He was a member of the 43rd Huddersfield Beavers at Crosland Moor, but he is now moving up to the Crosland Moor Cubs.

To gain his award Gary had to undertake outdoor challenges.

They included a camping trip and walking at Scammonden and Bradley Woods.

Gary also undertook a `discovery challenge', which involved learning new skills.

He built a clock from a kit and made a plaster mask.

Gary had to undertake a friendship challenge, as well.

This involved researching life and culture in another country.

He chose Australia, as he has relatives there and was doing a school topic on the country.

He also completed a personal challenge - learning to play the cornet. He has been playing for 12 months and gave a performance for his fellow Beavers in order to complete the challenge.

Gary also achieved activity badges for creativity, carrying out experiments, learning about different faiths and learning about animals.

Beaver Leader Kathryn Starr said: "It is the highest award a Beaver can get and Gary had a lot of fun doing it."