VOLUNTEERS have been rubbing shoulders with royalty thanks to their support for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

Six adults from Bury represented the area at the Duke's garden party held at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the award's 50th anniversary.

They were Carolyn Taylor, who has co-ordinated the award in Bury for ten years, with support from Pete Jones in providing expedition training to young people undertaking bronze, silver and gold awards. Pete is also the outdoor activities co-ordinator for Bury Youth Service. Also there were David Richings, part-time staff and volunteer for 15 years; Wendy Gess and Steve Keene, volunteers for four years; and gold award holder and 15 year volunteer Tracey Jones, who accepted a certificate from ex-England rugby player Roger Utley.

There were more celebrations in the North West, when eight Bury volunteers attended Prince Edward's garden party at Stonyhurst College in Ribble Valley. Andrea Hardman, a volunteer for the past 18 years, received a commemorative certificate on behalf of Bury from the Earl.

Young people have been busy too, joining regional Duke of Edinburgh participants at Tatton Park for the Golden Challenge, a weekend of dragon boat racing and It's A Knockout competition. Team Bury won the title for best effort, best attitude and best fancy dress. The team's first challenge was the Three Towers Trundle, a 30km walk completed by the 12-strong group in nine hours and 58 minutes.