Former Weaverham High School pupil Shelley Mills scoops gold award (From Northwich Guardian)

Former Weaverham High School pupil Shelley Mills scoops gold award

3:00pm Sunday 28th June 2009

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A VISIT to St James’ Palace was the treat for a former Weaverham High School pupil, after she successfully completed a gruelling outdoor adventure medal.

Shelley Mills, 21, from Northwich, visited St James’ Palace on June 10 to receive her gold Duke of Edinburgh award from Prince Phillip.

The Sir John Deane pupil’s golden journey began in January 2007, when she joined an open award group with Connexions – Cheshire and Warrington Limited.

The group began meeting once a week to plan and fundraise for its trip – a four-day, 60-mile trip canoeing from Fort William to Inverness, covering 22 miles of canal and three lochs, Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Ness.

To raise funds for the event, the group did a sponsored indoor climb and applied to The Youth Opportunities Fund and the Round Table for funds.

Shelley also held a college social event to raise a further £500.

During the expedition, the group faced heavy rain, strong winds, thousands of mosquitoes and aching limbs.

Shelley said: “It was such an awesome experience to be sitting in the middle of Loch Ness in complete tranquillity. Not many people have seen Loch Ness the way we have.

“I’m so glad I did it. I have made friends for life.”

In order to achieve the award, participants need to complete a range of other activities along with the expedition.

Shelley also completed a certificate in Management at St Helens College, as her skill, and volunteered at the British Heart Foundation charity shop in Northwich for her community service.

Shelley added: “The whole experience was something I will always remember, I would recommend completing the Duke of Edinburgh award to anyone.

“I’m really proud that I did it and had a fantastic time at the Palace.”

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