Going back to 1978 I was fortunate to be selected and offered a place on a project inspired by the DoE movement - Operation Drake - an expedition based project providing young people with the opportunity to develop and challenge themselves. I had already had a first life change experience whilst completing my apprenticeship in having to spend 4 years away from home. This prepared me well for what was to come, engaging with a range of people and environments completely alien to me. on my return home I was able to reflect and compare my experiences, it was plaint o see the vast differences in culture and climates. I wanted to continue to share what I had experienced and to encourage achievement in young persons. I identified m our local tennis club had an elderly membership and if it was to continue had to bring in young blood. They agreed to starting a junior section which I managed for some 10 years and was proud to have given the opportunity for those who attended and took part to be able to paly the game. Later on I took up part time youth work and also assisted with the DoE scheme, eventually attaining leader status. Today i help run a very successful local DoE group and continue to enjoy seeing young people challenged and achieve.