I was challenged because of the Duke Of Edinburgh to persevere. Three days of torrential rain on a Lake District Gold Expedition not only makes you wet to the core, it helps you find the strength in yourself and your team to overcome. Dare take your boots off and you might not get them back on. Try to write notes in a book which is disintegrating under the pencil. Sleep on a hill where the three of you have to shuffle up the tent like caterpillars every few hours to stop squashing each other. Cook on a trangia in a public toilet or let the heat go out and go hungry!
Memories were made but, more importantly, character was formed. People are right when they tell you that completing the Duke of Edinburgh's Award is good for your future. The experience of bronze, silver and gold awards widened my skills, sent me to new places and grew my confidence. I have achieved many things because in my teenage I was nurtured. Everything is possible with good preparation. A good team is not made, it is formed by the experiences solved together. These principles are transforming.
I first met Prince Philip at RAF Alconbury on a secondary school trip in the 1970's. Our group practiced pitching a tent in seconds for him to see, and he laughed and encouraged us with the speed and teamwork shown.
Prince Philip could have just had a very comfortable, sit around and do nothing life, but he chose not to. He chose to be innovative and encourage others; to face challenge, to inspire and to make good things happen. The extent of goodness in the life of the Duke of Edinburgh is felt worldwide. There are rarely people like him. His legacy is that whoever you are you can do good, you can overcome.
Today I thank God for Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh and pray that his family and friends might find comfort in the tributes of others.