A FORMER 3rd Ben Rydding Scout has been made an MBE.

Scout leader David Shaw was presented with his gong by the Queen at Windsor Castle on Friday, December 5 and enjoyed a celebratory meal with family and friends afterwards.

The honour was bestowed on the former resident of Grove Road, Ilkley, who now lives in Windsor, for services to scouting and the community.

His wife Catherine and daughters Abigail, aged 20, and Rebecca, 22, accompanied him on this special occasion.

Catherine said: “The event was so well organised and the recipients went into a private State room to be prepared.

“The Queen spoke to him saying that he had not had too far to come. She asked David about his work with the Scouts at The Garter Service and The Windsor Castle Ambassadors Scheme plus the recent Ascot Race Day for The Prince Philip Trust Fund.”

David described the honour as the ‘pinnacle’ of more than 40 years’ hard work with the Scouts.