The 8th Norwich Sea Scouts have received a letter from Buckingham Palace supporting their Promise Challenge efforts.

Containing a personal message from the Queen, the letter encourages the sea scouts in their efforts to achieve their challenge.

The youngsters – made up of Norwich School pupils – have achieved several challenges in order to gain their award.

The first activity was to do good turns for other people – each good turn was rewarded by a leaf which is then stuck on a hand-made tree. A second activity was to write a prayer that they could use for Cub Scout Camp.

Simon Lane, group Scout leader, explained further: 'The Cub Scout Promise involves duty to God, the Queen and helping other people.

'We encourage the Cub Scouts to learn new skills and explore the outdoors, however to be really worth something these skills must be supported by a sense of duty and care to those around us.

'It really means a lot to these Cub Scouts to have their efforts recognised by Her Majesty.'

The letter from Buckingham Palace, signed by the Queen's lady-in-waiting Susan Hussey, reads: 'The Queen was interested to hear that you are all working hard to complete your Promise Challenge which supports the basic Scout promise to serve God and The Queen, and to help other people.

'Her Majesty was pleased to hear from you and, although unable to reply to you personally, The Queen much appreciated your kind thought for her.

'I enclose some information leaflets which I hope you will enjoy, and wish you all every success in your task.'

Peter Grover, leader of 8th Norwich Sea Scouts, said: 'The prayers express the things that are important to eight- and nine-year-olds; the world, rain and sunshine rate almost as highly as clean toilets and no bugs in their tents. We'll do our best to achieve all aims.'

And fellow leader Henry Landis added: 'Flag raising is one of the most important ceremonies we do in the Scouts and Cub Scouts. The message from the Queen really helps the children understand the Cub Scout Promise and also the respect we show to her.'

Has your community group achieved something special? Call Local Life editor David Freezer on 01603 772418 or email david.freezer@archant.co.uk