My first encounter with the DofE was in 1977 when I started my gold award through Nat West Insurance Services & leader Dave Tranter. I loved the challenges especially the expedition & duly completed my award which I received at Buckingham Palace accommodated by my proud mother.
The association didn’t end there I started work in 2005 as the DofE administrator for Bristol City Council a job I loved & held for 10 years. I became an expedition assessor & held a walking qualification. I assisted various groups with their expeditions & training. I was also a staff member of the ATC helping the cadets achieve their awards.

The one over riding memory of Prince Philip for me was at a gold presentation with Bristol City Council’s young people at St James Palace. Philip engaged with the guests & asked the question “who had achieve their gold award” I promptly held up my hand & pointed to a small gold pin badge in my lapel, to which Philip replied it was the smallest he had ever seen!! He’s sense of humour shone out.
I have nothing but admiration for the scheme created by Prince Philip. It has given me some wonderful memories & a strong sense of achievement. Thank you for the journey. R.I.P