I worked for my D of E awards as a Ranger Guide. I well remember the presentation of my Gold award by HRH Duke of Edinburgh at St James Palace in 1983. The Duke walked over to my group and asked if anyone had participated in the award scheme in an organisation aoutside school. Nobody else answered and I felt too timid to respond. How I regret that now and how things have changed!

The Scheme taught me the benefits of perseverance,, team work, physical challenge, self motivation, self belief and the importance of community. These are values that have shaped my life.

My Gold award expedition was in Derbyshire focussing on the history the plague village of Eyam. The sacrifice of that community is an inspirational story which I have never forgotten and one that is so poignant when we reflect on the past year.

Participation in the scheme developed close connections with others. Two days ago, I was contacted by a fellow participant of my Gold award expedition. We were reminiscing about the expedition. What is remarkable about this I the fact the scheme and his HRH were responsible for rekindling a connection that had been all but lost for 25 years.

I hope this scheme lives on and inspires many young people.

RIP HRH Duke of Edinburgh