At some time in their lives all Beavers, Cubs and Scouts will put to good use something they learnt in scouting.  For one of our Beavers, Joshua, this happened far sooner than anyone could have expected.

Here is his story, with acknowledgements to East Dorset Scout District:

An eight-year-old Beaver Scout has become one of the youngest members of the Scout Association to receive the Chief Scout’s Commendation for Meritorious Conduct.

When Joshua joined 1st Longham Beaver Scouts one of the first things he learnt about was fire safety, including remaining calm whilst evacuating a building.

Little did he know he would have to put that lesson into practice just a few weeks later when a fire broke out at his family home during the night.

Joshua remembered the lessons that Beaver Scout Leader had taught him and calmly woke his mother and 2 sisters before leading them, and the family dog, out of the house to safety.

In recognition of his bravery, a citation was submitted to the Chief Scout by Longham Scout Group, endorsed by County Commissioner Mike Parkes who, in his role as a retained fireman attended the blaze.

Presenting Joshua with his medal and certificate this week Mike Parkes said, “Joshua’s ability to remain calm and remember what he had been taught undoubtedly saved the lives of his family. He is a very brave young man whose actions have been rightfully recognized. We are all very proud of him.”

Joshua's citation reads:

"In recognition of his prompt actions and bravery when a fire started at his family home, he calmly helped his mother and two sisters to safety using the skills he had learnt through a Scouting fire practise."