His Royal Highness, The Earl of Wessex has paid a visit Dunoon Grammar School. It was to celebrate the 21st anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Argyll and Bute.

His Royal Highness greeted pupils as he made his way into the school to have a look at several demonstrations of Duke of Edinburgh activities including first aid and navigation. Local leaders were then presented with awards for long service including:

• Blair Fletcher and Andrew Large from the Mid Argyll Open Award Centre
• Sue Duddridge, Charles Smith and Douglas Philp from the Helensburgh Open Award Centre
• Eric Duddridge for services as an expedition co-ordinator for the Lomond and Argyll area.

His Royal Highness then unveiled a commemorative plaque at the school.

Lead Councillor for Education and Lifelong Learning, Michael Breslin said, “Argyll and Bute Council values the Duke of Edinburgh Award greatly and recognises how beneficial the work done in the area is to young people. We have just confirmed the appointment of a full time development officer for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award which I believe demonstrates our commitment.”

Councillor Dick Walsh, Chairman of Argyll and Bute Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Committee said, “Hundreds of young people from all areas and backgrounds have benefited from the awards and there is a group of incredibly dedicated adults involved. In this day and age where employers are looking for more than just a qualification, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards are more important than ever.”

Director of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Scotland, Barry Fisher, said: “It is entirely appropriate The Earl of Wessex is visiting Dunoon to celebrate 21 years of the Duke of Edinburgh’s awards in Argyll and Bute. There is a tremendous commitment to the programme and is really is an excellent example of how volunteers can support young people.”