I did my bronze, silver, and gold awards at Wallace High School in Northern Ireland.
Taking part in the award scheme hugely influenced my life. It gave me a lifelong interest in the great outdoors and hill walking. It left me with wonderful memories and added infinite insights into preparing me for my life as an adult.
I was honoured to receive my gold award at Buckingham Palace. I travelled to London with my mother. We attended the ceremony, unsure of who was presenting the awards that day.
I was honoured and delighted to be presented my award by the Duke of Edinburgh himself. What an honour and what a wonderful memory!!
Fate the award ceremony, the Duke came to speak to us in groups. He asked me about the parachute course I did as part of my award.
Wonderful day. Wonderful memories. Wonderful man. Treasured times.
Thank you Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh for everything. Your influence on my young self, your service to our nation, your unswerving loyalty to our beloved Queen.