Duke of Edinburgh award winners were praised by Prince Edward at a celebration at St James’s Palace.

Thirteen young people from Barnet, along with members of Barnet Borough Council’s youth and community service, travelled to the palace for the Duke of Edinburgh award gold celebration.

Prince Edward praised their hard work, and they were issued their certificates by Battlestar Galactica star James Callis.

Matthew Lewin, 23, said: “It was great to receive our award in such a grand setting and really make a day of it. The memories will stay with all of us for the rest of our lives.

"I am also very proud to now be training and leading the next generation of Duke of Edinburgh participants and hope that they have as much of an enjoyable and fulfilling experience as I had.”

Jamie Vear-Altog , 21, said: “I am privileged to have had such a supportive service throughout the, arguably, most important period in my life. Going to St James’s Palace to receive the certificate and badge, in the presence of Prince Edward, was incredible.”

A total of 1,433 young people began their bronze, silver or gold Duke of Edinburgh award in the borough last year.

Councillor Reuben Thompstone, chairman of the children, education, libraries and safeguarding committee, said: “Everyone in Barnet should be proud of the achievements these young people have made. Gold Duke of Edinburgh awards are not given out lightly and each young person should rightly be proud of themselves.”