A GROUP of youngsters celebrated completing a year of challenges in order to receive a prestigious bronze award.

1st Stocksfield Beavers celebrated with Simone Price, from the Tyne Rivers Trust, after completing a session of kick sampling in Guessburn, next to their new Scout hut, where they learnt about the inhabitants of the burn.

The session marked the end of a full year of activities and was the final challenge they faced in order to receive the Bronze Chief Scout’s Award.

The Beaver Colony has been led by Rhian and Helen Cradock from the Feathers Inn, Hedley on the Hill.

They were helped by parents, Holly Lowery and the previous Beaver leader Mathew Jefferson.

Helen said: “This is a massive accomplishment for these young people.

“They have been really challenged and had lots of adventures, visiting a working dairy farm and meeting an astronomer.

“We are so proud of them for achieving this award, the highest award Beavers can get.

“It’s been through the tremendous support from parents and the Beavers own determination and resilience that they have been able to get this far.

“It has been hard work and terrific fun.”