It’s a proud day for golden boy Jack

Big-hearted teen receives Duke of Edinburgh Award

Volunteering and taking part in expeditions were just some of the things that earned a youngster a Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Jack Mitchell, 19, from the 1st Elderslie Boys’ Brigade, received his certificate at a special ceremony at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.

Prince Edward gave the Royal seal of approval to Jack Mitchell as he spoke to him ahead of the awards ceremony.

Geoff Alan, author of The Scottish Bothy Bible, then presented the award.

Jack said: “The award meant a great deal to me due to it being the culmination of years of work going through bronze, silver and gold.

“The most rewarding moment was receiving the invitation to the awards ceremony because I knew at that point I had done it.

“I would recommend it to others, as it is a great challenge that pushes you out of your comfort zone and encourages you to better yourself.”

Jack undertook a variety of challenges to achieve his Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award including a four-day, three-night expedition, at least six months volunteering within the community, and participating in a five- day residential course.

Speaking after the awards ceremony, John Sharp, director of The Boys’ Brigade in Scotland, said he was exceptionally proud of the young BB members from all over the country who completed their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards.

He added: “It’s not an easy feat to undertake so many tasks, but in doing so, the DofE programmes help develop key skills for life, such as confidence, commitment and team working.

“This award aligns itself very well with youth work and I hope that we can offer even more young people the chance to achieve it – and in doing so – they can gain in confidence and make a difference to their local communities.”

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a leading youth achievement award that develops over 400,000 young people for life and work every year in the UK.

It was founded by The Duke of Edinburgh in 1956.

The Boys’ Brigade was one of the first youth organisations to offer the DofE alongside its own award scheme.

This year a total of 147 BB young people have participated in the award.

It is a great challenge that pushes you out of your comfort zone Jack Mitchell