A RECORD number of cubs from a Penwortham pack have put their training to the test to get the ultimate scouting badge.

The 9th Penwortham Spitfires Pack had an all-time high number of youngsters taking the adventure crest award -- the highest possible honour -- and all 15 of them were successful.

The group were tested in all sorts of areas, from camping to charity work, and they were handed their certificates by their district commissioner.

They were some of the last cubs in the country to be given the award as it has now been replaced following a review of the movement.

This year cubs wanting to take the top honour will have to complete the chief scout silver award.

Lindsey Wilson, the pack's akela, whose son James was one of the award winners, said: "There were 15 of them which is an awful lot. In the past we have had maybe two or three.

"To get the badge they have to go camping on several occasions, know all the outdoor skills subjects and about the country.

"Then they had to have an international night and plan it around a country. They had to know everything from what language they speak to the food they eat.

"They also had to do something for a charity as well. It's a lot of work. We've usually had a couple go through, and everybody who went for it got it."

The youngsters completed their activities late last year, but it has taken months for them to receive what they had all been waiting for -- a certificate and badge to sew on their uniform.

Proud parent and helper Phil Meek, whose son Alex passed the award, said: "It represents the highest award a cub scout can gain. It really requires dedication to achieve all the standards."