Young people from Merton will be commended for their ingenuity at the 2006 Duke of Edinburgh’s Award evening to be held on Wednesday 10 May at 7.30pm in Collyers Hall, Kings College School, Wimbledon Common.

The Mayor of Merton, Councillor Judy Saunders will have the honour of presenting over 100 young Merton residents with certificates and badges to commemorate their respective efforts at bronze, silver or gold level.

Mark Clark, Principal Youth Officer spoke of his admiration at this year’s participants.

“These young people have shown great commitment and effort in completing their awards, whether at bronze, silver or gold level. The Duke of Edinburgh’s award gives Merton’s young people the opportunity to learn, grow and develop through their activities and actions.

“They have all achieved a great deal from taking part in the award and I congratulate them all.”

This year’s award ceremony will be all the more significant, as the participants and contestants will be celebrating its 50th anniversary. Next Wednesday will be the perfect forum to reflect on the past year’s activities, which have included fundraising, assisting local Brownie brigades, police service course, animal welfare, photography, cookery and sign language.

A multitude of sporting activities have also formed an integral part of this year’s award ranging from trampolining to kick boxing. Furthermore, participants enjoyed the thrill of expeditions throughout the United Kingdom and they even took their award pursuits to overseas locations such as Namibia, Argentina, Lapland and Borneo.

For more information please contact: Carol Curtis, Borough Award Co-ordinator, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Youth Office, The Pavilion, Farm Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 6RA 020 8648 1786 OR email dofeaward@merton.gov.uk