I count myself as been extraordinarily lucky to have received my Gold Award from HRH Prince Philip the Duke of Edinburgh on his last award ceremony at Buckingham Palace back in 2017.

I feel that the Award scheme, like all participants, has benefited me for the best, equipping me for adult life with some fantastic experiences, friends and life skills.

During part of the volunteering module for my award I had volunteered as a swimming instructor. I have since gone on to become a qualified swimming teacher after discovering a passion for swim teaching through my award.

I have continued to challenge myself with a trip to the top of Ben Nevis with fellow DofE participants shortly after receiving my Gold Award.

I have been been honoured to have been able to volunteer for the DofE at multiple award ceremonies and other occasions. This has allowed me to meet many more award holders and inspirational people, who like the Prince believe in the benefits that the DofE Award can give to young people in the UK and around the world.

I am certain that the principles and the legacy that the Prince has left in the Award Scheme will go on to nurture and inspire future participants for many more years to come.

Prince Philip will be a greatly missed.