Student Matthew Ward had a date with royalty recently when he picked up his Gold Duke of Edinburgh award in a prestigious ceremony at St James’ Palace, London.

Matthew, 18, from March is a student at the College of West Anglia in Wisbech and took his tutor Adrain Kent to the presentation held in the palace’s throne room and made by Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh himself.

The Gold Award Presentation (GAP) is a celebration and recognition of Matthew’s achievements in completing his Gold Duke of Edinburgh programme. The GAP is a unique event and a fitting culmination to mark the hard work, determination and perseverance required.

Matthew worked tirelessly through the five sections of his Duke of Edinburgh programme over number of months to achieve his Gold Award, including an expedition. Throughout his Duke of Edinburgh, Matthew, who is a member of Squadron 1220 Air Training Corps in March, proved himself to be a great team member.

Matthew is currently completing a Level 3 Uniformed Services course at CoWA and on its completion plans to join the RAF as a Regiment Gunner.

Mr Kent said after the event: “Matthew has proven to be an excellent role model student, and it was a real privilege to be invited and participate in such a monumental event with him.”

Matthew added: “Completing the Duke of Edinburgh at any level is extremely rewarding and I really enjoyed the experience. As I was receiving the Award, all I could think about was how challenging I found it, but how worthwhile it had been.”