A group scout leader from Alsager has received his British Empire Medal for his services to young people and the community.

Don Longhurst was awarded the BEM in the New Year's Honours but due to COVID, it has only just been presented at an award ceremony.

Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, Lady Redmond MBE presented Don with the prestigious medal at an investiture ceremony at Tatton Park.

Don has been involved with the scouting movement since 1981 and is currently Group Scout Leader based at 1st Alsager Scout Group.

The former Barclays computer operations manager became Group Scout Leader in 1999 and is a well-known face in the community.

He was awarded the medal for `voluntary services to young people in Cheshire and to the community in Alsager'.

Don said he was delighted but also paid tribute to his family and everyone else who has supported him over the years in his work.

He told Alsager Nub News: "I do feel priviledged but I have to say there are lots of other people who should take some credit, not least my family.

"They have supported me throughout all I have done and supported me in my work which has taken me out into the community.

"My son still gets involved when he's up here. I have a very devoted family who have supported my work."

And Don isn't the only person in his family involved with this type of work – wife Teresa is a guiding light in the Alsager Brownie and Girl guide movement.

The couple are currently working on another project together – Alsager's annual Christmas toy appeal.

Alsager Nub News told earlier this week click here. how families in need will benefit more than ever this year from the appeal.