It's not too often you find yourself being praised by tv star Bear Grylls.

But that is exactly what has happened for Mark Sherry after being chosen to represent the UK at the world scout jamboree.

The Mitcham man was delighted to learn that come August next year, he will be jetting off to the USA to install his knowledge upon thousands of keen campers.

"I’ve visited many countries through scouting but I’ve never been on a jamboree outside of the UK," the 54-year-old said.

"They’re great because they encourage co-operation between the different cultures, and scouting brings all the countries together.”

Held once every four years, the jamboree brings together 45,000 scouts from across the world to "experience international cultures and celebrate the scouting principle: to create a better world."

The UK's chief scout, Bear Grylls, congratulated Mark on the amazing achievement.

"While lots of people know that Scouting helps young people learn the skills they need for life they often don’t realize that adult volunteers learn just as much as our young members," he said.

"I wish Mark all the best and I know they are going to have an amazing time next over the next few years.”