I first did the Bronze award at school in the year the D of E Award Scheme first started. We studied the Police, Floristry and of course the walk and camping all round rural Norfolk. Not something that Mother Superior thought young ladies should be doing!

Many weekends of practice, sweat, blisters and tears followed by hot chocolate to warm us in our tents.

Then I started the Silver award with the same group of friends
completing the walk and camping at college.

A horse ride saw my horse stopping before a fence while I ended up going over the fence landing in the river on the other side. ??

Loved it so much and encouraged both my sons to do similar things as it was very good grounding to my Army basic training and many other lifes lessons.

It was one of the few things that wasn't class related, open to ALL who just wanted to give it ago and achieve.

Some of the food we cooked and laughs and tears we all had along the way, makes great stories to tell my grandchildren today :)

My only regret, was that I was unable to complete my Gold award entering the WRAC instead.

Sincerely, one of the most privileged schemes to ever have taken part in.

Thank you for initiating a fantastic opportunity for all girls and boys regardless of their backgrounds.