Four Beavers from the 1st Douglas Scout Group’s Buggane Colony have been awarded a new, specially commissioned, badge in recognition of their efforts to explore more, share more and do more.

It’s part of the 2018 Year of Our Island celebrations.

The four boys were presented with the badges by Policy and Reform Minister Chris Thomas MHK and Tanya August-Hanson MLC.

Miss August-Hanson and Kerry Sharpe MLC were also on hand to present badges to some of the Island’s Brownies.

Members of Scouts and Girlguiding groups can earn the badge by completing at least two activities themed around Year of Our Island.

Minister Thomas said: "I am delighted to present this first sets of badges. 

"We’ve heard so many great stories from people of all ages who have embraced what Year of Our Island is all about and tried something different in 2018.

"We are incredibly proud to see so many members of our Scouts and Girlguiding groups across the Isle of Man working hard to earn their badge by taking part in walks and engaging with the wider community. 

"The badge will be just one small legacy of this special year of celebration and we hope Scouts and Girlguiding members will continue to work towards achieving them." 

Year of Our Island is a cross Government project which celebrates our Island as a special place to live and work.

Over the course of 2018, Year of Our Island has worked closely with organisations from across the Isle of Man to celebrate the Island’s quality of life, enhance national pride and create partnerships throughout the Island’s rich and diverse communities.