HIGH spirits with a hint of fear - the mindset that will get you through the toughest challenge teenage Scouts can face.

As four Scouts from the 1st Abercarn Troop were presented with their Gold Award their leader, Alan Britt said "It's obvious from what the boys wrote in their log that the spirit of Scouting is still very much alive.

"After climbing the steep slopes of Pantyresk mountain one observed 'It was hardly climbing the North face of the Eiger but with around 30 pounds weight on our small backs emerging alive on the summit was by our reckoning an achievement of the same calibre'."

Cole Waters-Parry, Oliver Townsend, George Marsden and Nathan Hardacre all 14 received their prized Gold Awards from Mr Clive Harrison, deputy commissioner for Caerphilly, Rhymney and Islwyn Scout district.

The ceremony was watched by the mayor, Councillor Vera Jenkins.

Scout Leader Linda Terrell said "The award is the highest achievable in the Scout section which can only be awarded after an arduous two-day, one-night hike over unfamiliar and remote terrain.

"The four had to find their way to a particular map reference and fend for themselves in conditions that few people would consider ideal.

"In addition to the hike Coel, Oliver, George and Nathan each had to win nine badges which demand a high level of commitment to an activities as diverse as sports and fitness, the environment, music, drama, handicrafts and seamanship.

"All four will be moving up to the Adventure Scouts later this year." Alan Grey and Ansley Bolt were presented with their Wood Beads signifying completion of their leader training.

"The night before five new Beaver Scouts were invested" Mrs Terrell added.

"This brings the strength of the group up to 50 and reflects the growth of the movement not just locally but over Gwent as a whole."