GOLCAR brothers had a brush with royalty after achieving their gold Duke of Edinburgh’ s awards.
Ben and Seb Avery were presented with their gold awards after taking on the series of challenges to achieve success.
The brothers, of Bolster Moor, who started out at the 39th Parkwood Scouts aged just six, put their skills to the test to take on cycling, swimming and volunteering to gain the award.
Ben, 21, who is studying Chinese and Mandarin at Nottingham University said: “Throughout the D of E, you learn so much about yourself both physically and mentally.”
Ben used his experience working on a farm in Argentina towards the residential element of the award as well as volunteering for his Scout group.
Meanwhile Seb, 19, who is studying journalism at Sheffield Hallam, helped with the maintenance at Bradley Woods, qualified as a level 2 swimming instructor and taught at his local swimming club.
But the toughest part of the award saw the brothers work together on a rigorous cycling expedition in France, preceded by an intensive cycle maintenance course.
Seb added: “Whether it’s struggling through rugged French terrain on a push bike, testing every ounce of your will power and determination, or realising the contribution to the community through sacrificing just a small amount of your time, it’s worthwhile.”
The brothers were presented with their awards by the Duke of Edinburgh.
Ben added: “When you go and collect your award from St James’ Palace and reflect on your experiences, it’s quite surreal, an amazing feeling”.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award supports more than 275,000 people aged 14-24 every year.
