Duke of Edinburgh to present awards to West Somerset youngsters

FIVE young people from West Somerset have been invited to St James’ Palace, London (pictured, below) to collect their Gold Award under The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme.
Prince Philip and his son the Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward, will present the awards personally to Emma Hoyland and Emma England, both aged 18, Gary James and Jonathon Hobbs, both aged 19, and 20-year-old Ryan Johnson.
The award programme in Somerset is run by the county council through schools, colleges, youth groups, and open award centres.
A total of 42 young people from Somerset achieved Gold Awards and have been invited to the Palace.
They spent more than 12 months helping others, learning new skills, and taking part in action-packed adventures.
Often, the youngsters had to arrange activities with people they did not know in order to help develop self-confidence and communication techniques.
Somerset is the leading county in the South West for the number of young people participating and gaining their Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards for the fourth successive year.
Robert Sampson, the county’s Duke of Edinburgh Award officer, said: “Participation in the award requires a lot of hard work and dedication from the young people involved.”
Councillor Pauline Clarke, the county portfolio holder for children’s services, said: “We support participation in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award as it is a great opportunity for young people for lifelong learning and achievement.”
More information about The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is available from co-ordinator Helen Watkins on 01823 447120 or by emailing hwatkins@Somerset.gov.uk.