Jacob Kirk, 17, who attends Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Horncastle, received the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award from Prince Edward Earl of Wessex at a ceremony at St James' Palace, London, as his mother Lesley watched on.


The award is given to those people who show high levels of personal commitment, self-discipline and achievement in the community.


Jacob said: "It is very nice to get the recognition after the hard work I put in.


"I probably found the expedition the toughest, but to get the award was fantastic and quite special."


Applicants are required to do voluntary work, learn a skill, take part in an expedition, take on a recreational activity and go on a residential trip.


Jacob, an explorer scout based in Coningsby, started working towards the gold award in January 2007 and completed his tasks, which included a five-day expedition through the Cheviot Hills in Northumberland, earlier this year.


Jacob has been working as a young leader with 2nd Spilsby Scouts and learning to play bridge. He attended the World Scout Jamboree last year for a residential project and has also been playing water polo.


Jacob's parents, Jim and Lesley Kirk, are very proud of his achievement.


Mr Kirk said: "We are incredibly proud and he has done wonderful.


"The scout movement has been brilliant for Jacob. He joined aged five or six and he has followed it through with a group of like minded people."


In September Jacob was awarded the Queen's Scout Award, which is the highest individual scouting honour available.


Jacob said he plans to continue volunteering and would like to become a leader when he turns 18.


David Hewitt and Joe Lindley, young leaders with Horncastle Scouts, also collected the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award at St James' Palace.

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