I came through the ranks as it was many years ago, Cubs, Scouts then finally Senior Scouts. During that time I started doing the DofE awards and loved every minute of it.
My main challenge was during one whole year I camped every weekend, and when school holidays came around these were also spent at Downe Scout camp in Kent. Winter and Summer I never missed, As I lived in Bromley it was a bus journey to Downe then a hike to the campsite every Friday and back home Sunday evening. The winter months were sometimes extremely hard but I persevered as this is what the DofE is all about, sometimes it's going that extra mile that will make the difference.
Over that year I learnt so much from the people around me, and from that I was able to help when new groups would turn up, getting the camp site set up. I spent a great deal of time helping other groups from all over London and the surrounding counties.
My love of nature came from being part of the team that ran Downe Scout camp. Even to this day I am a keen bird watcher and walker, its something that never leaves you.
Even into my 70's I still lead walks for people on the island of Lanzarote. My love of the outdoors came from Scouting and the DofE award scheme.
My thanks go to all the people that helped me with a childhood that was enriched by a scheme set up by the Duke of Edinburgh. I am sure there are a great many people like myself who will look back with pleasure at the times we had as kids being given a chance to do something we enjoyed.
The skills learnt don't stop when you get the award, even today I still have goals, I am a drummer in a local rock band, yes at 70! I am an instructor/divemaster with PADI & BSAC. My latest project is learning the guitar and is a work in progress. Maybe they should have DofE awards for us older people, I for one would sign up tomorrow.
It was a lot different when I was a kid, but I'm glad to see that it continues and instills young people to learn and help.