It is an award that so many young people aspire to achieve – and many young Barrovians have been recognised for securing Duke of Edinburgh gold and silver awards over the years. In 1986, thirteen south Cumbrians were among the 300 winners of the Duke of Edinburgh gold award attending a ceremony at St James’ Palace. The young people had taken part in a wide range of activities that took place over 18 months. South Cumbria winners included nine apprentices from Vickers and Barrow, and four girls who had just left the sixth form of Lakes School in Windermere. Activities ranged from gruelling five-day expeditions to working with the handicapped and elderly people.