A HERO Greenock scout who saved his family from a fire has received a bravery award on the personal recommendation of British adventurer Bear Grylls.

Schoolboy Jonathan Cameron made the headlines last year after leading his mother Alison McCready and his little sister Lily Cameron to safety when the cooker suddenly went on fire at their home in Garvald Street.

Instead of panicking, the youngster, who attends the 32nd Greenock and District, calmly put into practice the fire safety skills he learned at the scouts - by phoning the emergency services and leading his mum, little sister and neighbours to safety.

Jonathan's actions caught the attention of Chief Scout Bear Grylls who personally recommended that the scout patrol leader and pupil at Clydeview Academy should receive the Gilt Cross for gallantry.

He is the first member of his 104-year-old group to receive the accolade.

Jonathan and his family have now been invited to Windsor Castle at the end of April to join Queen Scouts from his own group and others from all over the country at a Royal review and reception where he hopes to meet Bear.

He said: "To receive the Gilt Cross is a great honour.

"I only did what any other boy would have done in the circumstances.

"My time in Scouts has taught me lots of skills which I will remember for life.

"I am a bit embarrassed about it all, but my leaders and other scouts at the 32nd Group say I am a hero.

"I am really proud to be getting this award and hope I will be able to speak with Bear Grylls at Windsor."

Regional commissioner Stephen Allan presented Jonathan with the award at a special reception at the group's HQ in Mearns Street, in front of leaders, parents, Lord Lieutenant Guy Clark, Councillor Ciano Rebecchi, Rev Alan Sorensen, District Commissioner Bernard McGuinness and guests from the Duke of Edinburgh Award (Inverclyde) and local teachers.

Mark Sinnamon, Jonathan’s scout leader says he is an inspiration.

He said: "Jonathan is a real role model.

"What he did during the house fire was nothing short of heroic.

"He is a terrific scout and other young people look up to him.

"We at the 32nd troop are justifiably proud of him.

"To receive the Gilt Cross is amazing - only a handful of these are awarded each year.

"In our group's 104 year history, this is a first."

District Commissioner, Bernard McGuinness said Jonathan is a credit to the scouts, his family and the wider community.

He said: "What an achievement and what a hero Jonathan is.

"I would also like to make mention of the scout section leaders at the 32nd troop, who have clearly installed a positive attitude and provided all the important skills to Jonathan which allowed him to deal with this true life situation in such a calm manner."