Duke of Edinburgh Award gold badges have been handed out to several young people from around the island at a special presentation event.

The award scheme was praised for the help it provides youngsters in preparing for university and work.

Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney presented the gold award badges at Government House in a ceremony on Friday.

A group of 20 young people has recently gained their gold award and many attended to receive their badges.

Silver and bronze awards are presented each September.

The island’s Youth Service, part of the Department of Education and Children, delivers the award through secondary schools and independent groups.

More than 800 young people from the island participate in the award at any one time.

Awards co-ordinator in the island, Alison Gawne said: ’The award was founded in the UK seven decades ago and we marked its diamond jubilee in the island last year.

’It continues to be as relevant today as it was when it was established by the Duke of Edinburgh.

’Participants aged 14 to 24 work towards the bronze, silver and gold award in their spare time, tackling physical challenges, volunteering, learning skills, undertaking an expedition - at gold level - taking part in a five-day residential session, assisting a charity or good cause.

’They practise teamwork, develop thinking skills, learn how to overcome challenges, push themselves to achieve goals and grow in confidence all the time.

’This greatly prepares them for life at university or work.

’Going off-island to university presents challenges and, again, the award readies young people for this.’

Sir Richard said: ’I congratulate these young people for investing seriously in their own development.

’Their efforts should stand them in good stead as they pursue their ambitions later on.’