A MEMBER of the West Wiltshire Youth Sailing Association has been presented with his gold Duke of Edinburgh award.

Twenty-year-old Eddie Abbott attended the ceremony at St James Palace where he was given his award by by Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, who has taken on the scheme from his father.

To complete the gold DofE award, Mr Abbott volunteered by teaching at West Wilts Youth Sailing Association, spent five days sea kayaking off the Jurassic Coast for his expedition, and attended a cookery school near Taunton for a five day residential programme.

Mr Abbott’s mum, Emily Abbott said: “All of this was made possible by his school, Warminster School and Wiltshire Council who administered the scheme at the time.

“Eddie is extremely grateful to the school for their assistance in gaining this award, the structure is in place but the individual has to arrange the activities.”

“Eddie has seen the importance of teamwork and leadership skills and it has given him confidence to pursue his dreams, he is now studying Finance and Accounting at Swansea University and enjoying life fully.”