Felpham Explorer Scout meets Prince

Verity Baker-Irons, 19, at St James Palace after receiving her gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award from Prince Edward

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FELPHAM Scout Verity Baker-Irons has been presented with the gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award by Prince Edward.

Verity, 19, completed the award scheme as a member of Arctic Fox Explorer Scout Unit.

Proud mum Susan Baker-Irons said: “She had to complete five sections, including one year’s voluntary work, where she walked a neighbours’ border collie for well over the designated time as his owner was unable to walk him due to ill health.

“Verity learned to ballroom dance for a year, which she thoroughly enjoyed. She learned sign language at adult education classes, which she has occasionally put into practice in her everyday life since.”

The expedition section saw Verity join with six others from West Sussex Explorer units for a practice camp and hike around the Lake District, where the team bonded and encountered many challenging obstacles, including high winds and snow. The award expedition took place on Dartmoor, where the navigation proved quite challenging.

Susan added: “Verity studied for her A-levels while working part time and raising money for her residential trip. She chose to travel to Uganda to teach English, maths and science to a class of up to 50 children aged between ten and 18 years old, calling it a very rewarding and humbling experience.”

Verity thanked all those who supported her by donating money and attending her fundraising events in order for her to complete this part of the award.

She received her award at St James’s Palace, along with more than 200 other young people, who had the chance to share their stories with Prince Edward

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