I was in the Romsey Army Cadet Force from 1957-1961. We were told by our Commanding Officer that there was a new award scheme created by the Duke of Edinburgh and we would be some of the first participants of the scheme.

I look back on my Bronze D of E award as being a wonderful experience and still have great pride to know I took part in a scheme that has grown in strength and benefitted so many young people. I still have my D of E record book which reminds me of the fun we had and the skills we learnt.

I achieved my Bronze award on the 2nd April 1959 and because it was early in the scheme it was presented to me by Lady Edwina Mountbatten in Romsey Town Hall.