TWO YOUNG women have overcome learning difficulties to each win a coveted Duke of Edinburgh's gold award.

Rebecca Robinson, 22, and Rebecca Farrell, 24, are now awaiting invitations to a garden party in London, attended by a member of the royal family, which accompanies the award.

Proud mother Mrs Bronwen Robinson said: "Rebecca has Down's Syndrome.

"When she was born I was told by the hospital staff to take her home and love her but she would never achieve anything.

"But now I can stand and brag that my daughter can swim, horse ride, knit, make greetings cards and do a whole host of things she was never expected to do."

Mrs Robinson, of Greenlaws Close, Upperthong, launched Snap, a group for children with special needs at the Phoenix Club, in Dunford Road, Holmfirth, in 1987.

She also helped out with the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme, which is run at the club, until recently having a liver transplant.

Her daughter, and Rebecca Farrell, of Southgate, Honley, worked alongside mainstream teenagers for six-and-a-half years to achieve their gold awards.

And like all those who take part, the two Rebeccas had to undergo a gruelling schedule of tasks to qualify.

"They trekked for 25 miles, camped for 12 days in the Dordogne, France, cleared canal banks, learned how to operate locks, perform circus skills, knit and street dance.

"The Duke of Edinburgh's award is wonderful," went on Mrs Robinson.

"It integrates children with special needs with mainstream society.

"Rebecca is not shy any more and can mix with people.

"She has learned things she would never, ever, probably have done."

Receiving the award has also led her daughter to realise one of her most precious aims - getting a job.

Later this month Rebecca will start work in the bakery department at Holmfirth Co-op for eight hours a week.

"When an employer sees that someone has the gold award they know that is a dedicated person who is going to pull their weight," said Mrs Robinson.

"I think the award scheme is brilliant.

"Any young person that has the opportunity to participate should take it."