Fifteen young islanders will receive their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award from His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor Sir Ian Corder at a special ceremony this evening.

Over the past 12 months they have each completed the five sections of the programme, carrying out a range of activities including expeditions in Poland and Slovakia, a tennis residential in Barcelona and learning to play the piano.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the world’s leading achievement award for young people.

DofE manager Rebecca Silk says: ‘Completing your Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award takes a lot of time and commitment. People immediately think of the Expedition section when it comes to DofE, but it’s much bigger than that – each of these young people have done at least twelve months volunteering, completed a week’s residential meeting new people, as well as completing a skills section and a physical activity. It’s a tough award to achieve - the Bailiwick should be really proud of these young people.’

The Gold Presentation by the Lieutenant-Governor recognises the achievement locally.  Each DofE Gold Award holder will also be invited to receive their award at a Royal Palace by the HRH The Earl of Wessex at a later date.