BRAVE Stourbridge scout Ben Hart doesn’t know when he’s beaten.

The 17-year-old from Drew Crescent, Pedmore, makes light of his degenerative bone condition to take part in events others take for granted.

Despite being restricted to using crutches and a wheelchair, the Haybridge High School sixth form student still takes a full part in his passion for scouting.

Diagnosed with ill health when just five years old and severely restricted through his mobility, Ben graduated to a senior patrol leader and then a young leader with Pedmore Scout Group.

He completed his Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, but had an extra surprise in store at the ceremony when he was presented with the Cornwall Scout Award - one of the highest honours available.

Proud mum Helen Hart said: “We’d known about the Cornwell Award for seven weeks and had to keep it a secret from him.

“Right up to the presentation he didn’t know about it and wondered why the County Commissioner started talking about him.

“It completely threw him, because the Cornwell Award is so rarely given.”

Explorer Scout Leader Mike Randle added: “Ben takes on challenges like he does everything else, with grit, determination and a cheeky smile, which he uses to hide the pain he is experiencing.”

Only last year, Ben endured seven hours of surgery and mum Helen revealed: “This time last year, he couldn’t even stand-up or walk, but he carried on working for his gold award.

“He’s a very determined young man and doesn’t understand why people make such a big deal about his situation. it never stops him from doing anything, in fact it only makes him more determined.”

Ben, who has two younger brothers Robert, aged 16, and Alex, aged 13, who are also involved with the 17th Stourbridge Pedmore St Peters troop, received the Cornwell Award from County Commissioner Paul Wong.