'Incredible' day for Harrogate pupils at royal event at Buckingham Palace with famous guests

Daisy Austin and Niamh Armstrong from Harrogate’s Ashville College attended a garden party hosted by His Royal Highness and awards patron The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, who welcomed thousands of young people and their loved ones from across the UK.

Guests were addressed by famous speakers including BBC news anchor Clive Myrie and broadcaster Vick Hope – both DofE Award holders themselves – as well as British astronaut Tim Peake, and TV chef Matt Tebbutt.

One of only four such events held at the palace over several days, the celebrations recognised a total of more than 8,000 young people who have shown extraordinary perseverance, creativity and resilience to complete their Gold DofE in schools, community organisations, youth groups and workplaces all over the country.

To cover volunteering, physical and residential aspects of the award, Daisy Austin, 18, spent a year as a volunteer netball coach while also completing a Level 1 coaching qualification in the same sport, which in turn opened doors to a place with the Elite Netball Academy, touring UK schools.

Daisy also joined a challenging expedition in the Lake District and added learning to drive to her Gold Award accomplishments.

Daisy said: “Having the opportunity to visit the palace gardens was also such an incredible opportunity and being able to meet and see so many other people who have been on the same journey as you was definitely inspiring.

"But it also gave me the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work I dedicated to my Duke of Edinburgh award.”

She said: “I think the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is to always look for the positives and how communicating with one another – particularly in team environments – is so valuable in so many different challenges.

“Having the opportunity to visit the palace gardens was also such an incredible opportunity and being able to meet and see so many other people who have been on the same journey as you was definitely inspiring.

"But it also gave me the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work I dedicated to my Duke of Edinburgh award.”

Niamh Armstrong also chose netball as well as developing her skills on the piano as part of her award and also joined the four-day Lake District expedition, trekking in all weathers.

However, she extended her outdoor adventures thanks to sponsorship from Harrogate Rotary Club, joining a week-long outward bound leadership course which she described as the highlight of her programme.

She said: “I’m so proud to have completed my Gold DofE; at the beginning it seemed almost impossible to balance with my A Levels but I’m so glad I did.

"DofE has made me so much more confident and willing to try new things.

“The celebrations at Buckingham Palace were a perfect reward and I loved having the opportunity to explore the beautiful gardens, alongside lots of other DofE achievers.”