Some 300 of the borough’s young people will gather at the JJB Stadium on Tuesday December 9 for the prestigious annual Duke of Edinburgh Award ceremony.
Open to all young people from the age of 14, the awards were set up by Prince Philip more than half a century ago, and remain as popular as ever.
Senior representatives from Wigan Council will present the youngsters with Silver and Gold Awards in the Marquee Suite with The Bronze Awards being presented by two members of Wigan Warriors.
Champion for young people, Cllr Susan Loudon, says:
“We are all very proud of the contribution these talented and eager people make. I want to pay tribute to them, and to their leaders, parents, carers and helpers. Their achievements are a testimony to their determination and their hard work.”
Launched in 1956, The Duke of Edinburgh's Award helps the personal development of young people, with over a quarter of a million members. They take part in activities and personal challenges which lead to a number of levels of award, although organisers stress that it is the taking part which is the most important part.
200 Bronze Awards are set to be presented this year, plus over 60 silver and 21 Gold. There are also 13 BEL (Basic Expedition Leadership) awards being received.
The event has been organised by Wigan Council’s Duke of Edinburgh’s managers , Karen Holland and Refat Mahmood.
Refat says:
“It will be a night for all the young people to remember. It is an opportunity for their efforts and commitment to be applauded. Based on a number of key principals such as being progressive and non-competitive the Award helps young people maximise their potential’.
All young people aged 14-23 are welcome to enrol for the Duke of Edinburgh Award. There are three centres in the borough, in Ashton (YMCA Hilton Street, meeting Mondays 7-9pm), in Leigh (Kingsleigh Methodist Church on King Street, meeting Wednesdays 7-9pm) and in Wigan (WCVYS, Penson Street, meeting 7-9pm Mondays). Many schools and colleges also participate.
