Award ‘was the best experience of my life'
Launched 65 years ago, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has transformed the lives of millions of young people across the UK and beyond.
As the nation unites to pay tribute to Prince Philip – the programme’s founder and patron – following his death, we asked our readers to share their memories and stories of taking part in the youth awards.
The Duke died on Friday, April 9 at the age of 99. He was just two months away from his 100th birthday in June.
His funeral is tomorrow at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.
The DofE charity works to help young people gain essential skills, experience, confidence – born from a pilot programme which began in 1956.
A tribute to Philip on the DofE website said: “The DofE has become one of The Duke’s most remarkable achievements, equipping and empowering young people from all communities to build the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to make the most out of life.”
Here is how you remembered taking part on our social media pages:
Stacey Jayne Clark: “Went to Norway for our Gold award excursionandwashandsdown the best experience of my life.
"Would 100% recommend to anyone given the chance to jump at it.”
Cassandra O'Neill: “I took part in an International Gold Event in Toronto, Ontario and QuebecrepresentingtheUKas one of 10 delegates.
"Therewere160goldaward holdersfrom50pluscountries.
"I had lunch with Prince Edward and was one of two delegates that were chosen to co-host the closing ceremony and conference after a threeweek event.
"Many memories and honoured to represent the UK.”
Jill Hendry: “It really was life-changing at 15 years old … I’d recommend it to anyone!”
Carol Cameron: “I did Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. I was presented with theGoldatBuckinghamPalace by the Duke of Edinburgh.
"Remember my mam was so proud when he chatted to me!”
Jessica Boyce: “I have Silver
andBronzeDukeofEdinburgh awards, it was the best experience that I had.”
Christine Hull: “My daughterdidBronze,SilverandGold, so proud we met Prince Philip, he was absolutely charming.”
Michelle Wall: “Met Prince PhilipatStJames’Palacewhen I attended the DofE award ceremony.Hewaslovely,heshook everyone's hand and even had information on certain individuals.
"Heapproachedoneladand knew he had been kayaking to complete his Gold award. For me, it was an amazing experience and now my grandson is going to do it.”
Wendy Brown: “Both my childrenhaveGoldDofE,looks great on their CVs and helped them both become confident and well-rounded adults.”
Donna Watson: “Took part about 40 years ago, thoroughly enjoyed it, as well as helping others who weren't as fortunate as myself.”
Luce Tatey: “Yes - Bronze, Silver and Gold. An honour to havehadPrincePhilippresenting my Gold.”
AlanKnighting:“Acrossthe world,therearemanymillions of people who took part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards andwhobenefitedenormously from them.”