Grylls will be the new Chief Scout of the UK Scout Association. The famous adventurer takes over when current Chief Scout, former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan, completes his five year tenure in July.

When asked why he chose to volunteer for the UK’s largest mixed youth movement, Bear said: ‘In short, because I love adventure and I love hanging out with good friends. For me this is what Scouting is about.’

Born on 7 June 1974, Bear Grylls will be the youngest ever Chief Scout.

He first got involved in Scouting aged eight as a Cub Scout. Bear attributes this time as part of the inspiration behind his adult adventures presenting TV shows such as Born Survivor: ‘So much of who we are as an adult is formed when we are kids,’ said Bear. ‘What Scouting says to people is: “it’s okay to go for it in life”.

‘Every child has a right to have an adventure. Life is about grabbing opportunities. The prizes don’t always go to the biggest, the best and the strongest – they go to those who persevere. These are simple life lessons that Scouting teaches people.’

The Chief Scout provides inspiration for the 100,000 adult volunteers involved in Scouting across the UK.

The position was created in 1920 with the appointment of Robert Baden-Powell, who founded the Scout Movement in 1908.

Working in partnership with Bear will be Scouting volunteer Wayne Bulpitt, who takes on the new role of UK Chief Commissioner. Wayne will focus on providing leadership to all volunteers within Scouting. Like Bear, Wayne’s Scouting began when he joined as a Cub Scout.

‘I am delighted to have been invited to take on this position at such an exciting time,’ said Wayne. ‘The successes of the last few years mean that we are well placed to make the most of a high public profile and fulfil our vision of providing personal development and exciting opportunities to increasing numbers of young people.’

Bear and Wayne join 100,000 Scout volunteers who give up their time to provide adventurous activities to 400,000 6-25 year olds.

Scouting is more popular than ever, with adult volunteering increasing at the fastest rate for 23 years and just as many girls as boys now joining Scouting. Despite this, demand still outstrips supply and waiting lists remain at an all-time high due to the need for more adult volunteers.