When the DofE started the headmaster of Camelford Grammar School invited the boys to take part, and I was one of them. During my time at school I achieved both the Bronze and Silver Awards, which I am proud to say I still keep and cherish.
I don’t remember the exact date that Prince Phillip visited the Par stadium to meet the Cornish participants. I believe it would have been in 1957/8 and I was lucky enough to go and meet him along with my school friends. I had just finished my Silver and stared the Gold. At that time my hobby was .22 rifle shooting and did something then that would never be allowed today. I took a rifle and all the equipment, but no ammunition.
When he spotted the rifle he immediately picked it up and did a safety check, and asked if I had any ammunition here. When I said no he replied that it was a shame and said he could think of one or two targets and then took it to his shoulder and swung it around. When people started ducking he had a huge grin and laughed. He quietly put it down and with a discreet grin nodded to me and moved on.
A day I always remember.
Good luck and happy camping to all new participants.
A great man that will be missed for years to come.
Cameron Valentine
Now aged 78