I achieved my Gold award in 1984 and had the privilege of receiving the award at St James' Palace on the 1st March 1984. It was a memorable day. I attribute my public service as an elected Councillor and my volunteering to the skills I learned whist undertaking the award.

Nowadays, with responsibility for Young People on our Council, i see how the award transforms lives through building confidence, resilience and developing ambition. It is an award as relevant as it was at it's inception. It was the vision of the Duke of Edinburgh and his legacy is a living legacy both here and around the world.

My eldest Daughter has achieved the gold award too, another proud moment for Dad.

On this sad day when our thoughts are of his passing, let's remember those expeditions (yes, the cold, the wet too!), the teamwork, the friendship and our achievement of our personal and team goals.

Thank you, Prince Philip, you made a difference to my life in the 1980's and are still doing so today.