The grit and dedication of hundreds of young people in South Ayrshire has been officially recognised at a special ceremony at Ayr Racecourse. The latest success stories from the Duke of Edinburgh's Awards were celebrated by more than 800 guests at the Council's annual event on Thursday, 21 February.
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is open to young people aged between 14 and 25 years, who undertake the award at either Bronze, Silver or Gold levels, with each level's programme including sections on volunteering, physical, skills and expedition. Gold participants also have to complete a residential section.
South Ayrshire has the highest rate of DofE participation of Scotland's local authorities with 50% of 15 and 16 year olds taking part. At this year's ceremony 419 people were recognised, with 25 Gold, 99 Silver and 295 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards presented, marking the culmination of hours of individual work and group activity
Activities include: project work in science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM), charity work, sports coaching, team sports, playing a musical instrument, learning to drive, fitness activities, dance, horse riding, life-saving, acting & drama.
Councillor William Grant, South Ayrshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People said, "We're committed to co-ordinating and improving employment opportunities for young people, and programmes such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award are a fantastic way of getting people noticed.
"In an increasingly competitive world our young people need every advantage they can get, and with community contact, team work, not to mention the sheer grit and dedication needed to achieve an award at any level, this latest recognition demonstrates the skills that many employers will be looking for.
"I'd like to thank the parents and carers; teachers; and of course our volunteers for helping to support our young people, and to the participants themselves – between you, you've done South Ayrshire proud."