Honours For Merton Youngsters

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Ceremony for Duke of Edinburgh Awards

Young people from across Merton were honoured for achieving their Duke of Edinburgh's Award at a special awards ceremony. 

The evening, held at Wimbledon's Rutlish School, was hosted by two young bronze awardees, and featured presentations and demonstrations of the activities that young people had taken part in as part of the programme.

The Mayor of Merton Oonagh Moulton (left) was also present to award each of the 142 participants with the certificate and badge they had earned by completing the award.

Highlights from the evening included young people speaking Arabic (undertaken as their skills section) and volunteering and expedition presentations. 

The London Regional Director of the Duke of Edinburgh's Awards, Peter Fleet, was also present to congratulate the young people.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a national scheme, which aims to provide a rewarding programme of personal development for young people aged 14 to 25 years.  Participants are given the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of leisure, learning and voluntary activities that are both challenging and enjoyable.

Councillor Maxi Martin, cabinet member for children's services at Merton Council, said: "These young people have shown great commitment and effort in completing their awards, whether at bronze, silver or gold level and I congratulate them all".

April 3, 2011