A BOYS’ Brigade member has achieved the organisation’s highest honour - and a date with royalty.

Oswaldtwistle Boys’ Brigade member Dean Martin, 18, was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Badge during a special ceremony in Liverpool.

In recognition of this, Dean was then chosen to represent the Boys’ Brigade as a steward at a royal garden party, at Buckingham Palace.

The St Christopher’s pupil worked towards the prestigious honour for two years by training younger members, and raising funds for the elderly.

In order to qualify, he worked with other youngsters, who meet at Rhyddings Methodist Church, helping train them, and leading residential trips.

He also had to display Boys’ Brigade skills on a special expedition to the Lake District, during which he also earned his gold Duke of Edinburgh award.

Captain Margaret Battrick said Dean had proved himself an invaluable community volunteer, both inside and outside the Boys’ Brigade.

She said: “He’s been working at the Age UK charity shop for over three months, helping out every Saturday morning.

“He’s been tireless in his efforts to help others, in spite of doing his A-levels recently. We are very proud of everything he has achieved.”

The Queen’s Badge is the highest award for members of the Boys’ Brigade, and winners must have previously gained the President’s Badge, which requires years of proficiency in Boys’ Brigade skills and aims.

Dean celebrated his last night as a ‘boy’ with the 1st Oswaldtwistle group yesterday after 12 years, and plans to go to Edge Hill University in the autumn to study to be a teacher.