Rewarded for their dedication

From the archive, first published Friday 14th Oct 2005.

CHIPPENHAM NEWS: TIME Team star Phil Harding has presented Duke of Edinburgh's Awards to high-achieving young people.

Rachel Thomas, a member of Chippenham's Bridge Centre award group and Matthew Batle and Joe Mitchell from Wiltshire College Chippenham, were handed bronze award certificates at the ceremony on Friday.

Ian Duckett, Duke of Edinburgh's Award county representative, said: "We hold awards ceremonies on an annual basis to recognise young people's achievements.

"They may work on a bronze, silver or gold award for six to 18 months so it's something that needs recognising."

He said Harding, star of Channel 4 archaeology programme Time Team, told young people at Amesbury Sports Centre that he first developed his interest in archaeology while working towards his bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

Mr Duckett said the awards are a challenge but hopes even more people from north Wiltshire will be tempted to give them a go.

"Anybody can achieve it," he said.

"It's about dedication and commitment and being prepared to work at it over time."

For more information contact Sue Matthews at the Bridge Youth Centre on (01249) 655249.

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