I am a bronze, silver and gold award holder taking part from 1974-1978. I strongly believe taking part in the scheme has made me the person I am today. I was an only child to older parents who were quite insular. Taking part in the scheme gave me the opportunity to gain new skills, confidence and not be afraid to try new things even if it resulted in failure because I learned how to reflect and move on. Throughout life I have often said being part of the scheme is one of my greatest achievements and I believe my life would have been totally different. It has not always been plain sailing even when participating on a practice walk in 1976 I suffered heat exhaustion not an experience to be repeated but with the help of my teammates I was taken off the hill to safety. When I was invited to the palace to receive my gold award was very special as in 1978 the palace was not open to the public. My only regret is Prince Philip came to talk to me but I was so in awe I didn’t make eye contact, but the was genuinely interested and spent time with each group. I was only the 5th person in Gosforth High School, Newcastle Upon Tyne to gain my gold award and I am very proud to be part of 3 million who have taken part in the scheme and would recommend any young person to take part and improve their life choices. I would like to send sincere condolences to Prince Philips family his contribution to so many young people’s lives throughout the commonwealth will be his lasting legacy .