As a shy teenager I gained each Award that introduced me to a life of possibilities, service, leadership and adventure. As with many, my first expedition in a wet, snowy Wales that could have been disastrous, actually was a pivotal experience in seeking adventure and the ability to overcome. Having received my Gold Award at Buckingham Palace watched by a very proud mum, I thought that was the end but was encouraged to give back to the Award what I had gained. This led to an extraordinary opportunity and life long support of the Award through being leader, assessor, expeditioner including overseas, fund raiser and organiser of Awards in Birmingham and across the world.
It has been a privilege to meet HRH Prince Philip in connection with the Award on many occasions both at the Palace Award ceremonies and on visits to Birmingham. A butt of his raw comments, like when he called me "His old comrade"! yet inspired by his ability to make each person special yet at ease on these ceremonial occasions, I am fortunate to have many memories of the man who had an unexpected influence on my life through the Award scheme.