MORE than 70 young people received Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) awards at an annual ceremony last night (Wednesday).

The event took place at the Isle of Wight College, Newport, and saw 77 young Islanders receive their awards from the Lord Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, Major General Martin White.

Michael Archer, Ellie Burke, Alice Chambers, Timothy Pearl, Abbie-Louise Howard and Daniel Ramsbottom-Clark were the six gold award recipients, with a further 16 young people reaching silver level and 55 achieving bronze.

They all carried out various tasks over the last year which helped the Island’s community, including volunteering with charities or other local organisations, as well as undertaking expeditions, learning new skills and participating in sporting activities.

Cabinet member for environment and heritage, Cllr John Hobart, said: “I’d like to congratulate all our award recipients on their achievements — it shows they have the self-motivation and will to succeed.

"I wish them all the best in the future.

“I believe the DofE scheme gives the opportunity to push yourself and really does help shape future leaders.

"Life isn’t just about academic achievements, it is also about community involvement, awareness and responsibility — all of which are explored under the DofE award scheme."

Guests were welcomed to the presentations by Terry Gaskin, the college’s DofE manager.

All the participants were supported by volunteer leaders from schools and organisations across the Island including Cowes Open Award Centre; Brading Youth Club, Island Innovations, Medina College, Challenge and Adventure, Newport Open Award Centre, Christ the King college and Isle of Wight College in Newport.

Anyone aged 14 to 24 can enrol on the DofE scheme.

To do so, they should e-mail carol.taverner@iow.gov.uk