Brother and sister strike gold (From Gazette & Herald)

Brother and sister strike gold

A BROTHER and sister from Ryedale will be at St James's Palace, in London, on Friday, to receive their gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards at ceremonies attended by Prince Philip.

Helen and Richard Bielby, of Barton-le-Street, near Malton, are both ex-pupils of Ryedale School, where they achieved their award. The scheme, described by organisers as a "do-it-yourself kit in the art of living", includes the various categories of service, skill, expeditions, physical recreation and residential projects.

For Helen, 20, these involved achievements in fundraising for the NSPCC, playing in the Thirsk and District Royal British Legion Band, walking the North Yorkshire Moors and going on a National Trust working holiday at Hardcastle Craggs. She said: "I have many pleasant memories of the scheme, including the support of friends, family and unit leaders, and the opportunity to meet and help others less fortunate than myself. Finally, the reward of going to St James's Palace to collect my award with my brother, who will also receive his gold award, will be a great experience." Richard, 19, assisted with the First Helmsley Scouts, completed circuit training, and also took part in a working holiday at Hardcastle Craggs.He said: "I had many experiences through my award. It has given me the opportunity to develop my personal and social skills as well as others. I spent a week with the National Trust as a volunteer, two days were allocated for litter picking. I was surprised to find that litter meant safes, cookers and car parts!"

Updated: 08:31 Wednesday, November 05, 2003