A CHESTER teenager rubbed shoulders with royalty at a recent scout training event.

Luke Thornton from Farndon, who is a volunteer Beaver Scout Leader from the 40th Chester group, had an experience he’d never forget when he took part in a special training day with the Duchess of Cambridge in the Lake District.

The event, held at the Great Tower Scout Camp in the heart of Cumbria, taught young people climbing skills and other practical outdoor activities such as lighting a fire.

But despite the snowy conditions, the volunteers still all managed to wear big smiles as they posed for a picture with the future Queen.

Speaking about the event, former Bishop Heber High School student Luke, 19, said: “I’ve had many great experiences through scouting and this is right up there with the best of them.

“I started volunteering to give back to the community and I quickly discovered it's really good fun.”