Duke of Edinburgh's Award, Gold Presentation Evening
OLYMPIAN Katharine Merry helped more than 70 young people in Essex begin the new year in style when she presented them with their Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award.
Katharine, who scooped the 400m bronze medal in the 2000 Sydney games, was the guest of honour at the 4 January ceremony in Chelmsford Cathedral.
Essex County Cllr Tracey Chapman, Cabinet Member for Schools, Children and Families, said: “These youngsters have had to put in several years of hard work to achieve their gold awards and it is wonderfully fitting that Katharine, whose own athletics success was a result of unfailing commitment and determination, should make the presentations.”
Also attending the ceremony was Chairman of the Council, Cllr Gerard McEwen; Clair Pyper, Essex County Council Deputy Director for Vulnerable Children and Young People; and David Johnson, Chief Fire Officer for Essex Fire and Rescue.
Several young people spoke about their involvement in the Award - Katy Wills bravely spoke about her triumph when she completed her expedition and Ben Smith talked about how he completed a high grade in piano for his Skills section.
The County Award Presentation ceremony took place at Chelmsford Cathedral on Friday January 4.
ORDERING AWARD BOOKS
From the start of the new Autumn term, Youth localities will cease to exist. If young people or Award leaders wish to order Award book at any level, they will need to order them directly from County Hall. For order forms and more information about payment, please contact Sarah at awardessex@essexcc.gov.uk
RESIDENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES
If you are a member of Girlguiding or Scouting, The Essex International Jamboree 2008 which will be held at Kirby-le-Soken from 18th July to 10th August 2008 has opportunities to carry out two types of residential project spanning over 5 days each, for only £65. For more information please go to www.essexscouts.org.uk/jamboree
Training Programme
If leaders wish to find out what courses etc that are available this year, you will need to log onto the leaders section of the website. If you have not received your pin and password, please contact Sarah Whyte on awardessex@essexcc.gov.uk
Please contact the relevant Outdoor Centres for more details on the courses.
