Alford Scout receives Bear Grylls Unsung Heroes accolade

By Enjoy Alford and Donside on 03/03/2022

A young member of 1st Alford Scout Group has been recognised in the Bear Grylls Unsung Heroes award scheme for 2021.

Theo Harvey (14) was one of 20 Scouts from across the country personally selected by the adventurer.

They were chosen from hundreds of nominations, put forward by local volunteers outlining what the young people have achieved.

Grylls, Chief Scout for the movement, selected the recipients who have shown Scouts values, kindness, courage and the "never give up" spirit.

He said: "You guys are the pinnacle; the elite. We’re all part of the same Scout family, but each of us have different skills, talents. That’s what makes us strong."

Grylls recognised the efforts of Theo, who went through difficult, life changing events but kept on going and raised an exceptional £8500 for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Theo was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2016 and had to undergo extensive surgery to reduce the tumour, which led to him losing his sight.

He has kept up with his local Scouting group and has been able to engage in activities and camps over the years alongside his fundraising. This has included craft fayres, sponsored cycling and other events.

On receiving the accolade Theo said: “Thank you for the award I'm just doing what I can to help.”

Theo’s dad David said: “Theo now lives with complex health issues and has many hospital admissions, but keenly attends Scouts.

"Scouting gives Theo a chance to experience adventure and be challenged just the same as everyone else despite his sight loss. This is made possible by his local scout group leader.

"He has enduring strength and a spirit to never get discouraged. We are very proud of him."

Dougie Simmers, regional commissioner for North East Scotland Scouts said: “To be recognised by our Chief Scout Bear Grylls is a fantastic achievement for Theo. He has gone to great lengths to show that never give up spirit in his daily life.

"Theo is a shining example of how we give young people not only the skills for life but the personal qualities and values that employers, colleges, universities and society need more than ever right now.”

The Unsung Heroes’ achievements were as varied as they were impressive. Some raised huge sums for good causes, drew pictures or told jokes for charity.

One Scout, Max Woosey, camped out for more than 550 days, raised nearly £700,000 for his local hospice and he is still camping now.

Others cycled, climbed and travelled hundreds of miles for charity, all going the extra mile to do something amazing.

Some achieved their awards despite facing serious illness or losing a close family member, while others were recognised for the calmness and presence of mind dealing with emergencies.

Grylls added: “What an example they are to so many of us. How we conduct ourselves in tough times really matters.

Keep people close to you, keep positive, keep kind, and keep that never give up spirit."

Scouts is the largest co-educational youth movement in the country. People can join today by visiting https://nescouts.scot/. Anyone who would like to donate towards Theo's fundraising for Guide Dogs for the Blind can visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/david-harvey30