Beavers and Brownies have been exploring the island and won badges as a result.

Four Beavers from First Douglas Scout Group’s Buggane Colony were recognised for their efforts to explore more, share more and do more as part of the 2018 Year of Our Island celebrations.

The four boys were presented with the badges by government 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:

’Explore More’ - by walking at least four of the Year of Our Island Trail routes

’Share More’ - by taking photographs and talking positively about their walks and the Island’s outdoors

’Do More’ - by taking part in a community-led events.

Mr Thomas said: ’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.

’We are grateful to The Scout Association - Isle of Man and Girlguiding Isle of Man for partnering with us on this initiative. I for one look forward to hearing more of what our young explorers have been up to during 2018 and beyond.’

The Year of Our Island is a government project that aims to celebrate the island as a special place in which to live and work.

Over 2018, Year of Our Island has worked with organisations from across the Isle of Man to celebrate the island’s quality of life.