Cash boost for Isle students’ challenge

The 7 Lakes Country Park Rescue Day committee at Crowle donated cash to allow rucksacks and camping necessities to be bought for students working towards bronze, silver and gold D of E Awards.

A group of students have successfully completed their practice bronze expedition. They prepared for it from October last year while completing three- or six-month activities in physical, volunteering and skill sectors.

An Axholme Academy spokeswoman said: “The Duke of Edinburgh is an excellent award for our students to achieve. They can now progress on to the Silver Award.

“Colleges, universities and employers look very favourably on students who have completed any elements of the D of E award, as it shows commitment, determination and resilience.”

Students tackled between 10- and 14-mile hikes each day, carrying all of the equipment they required for the weekend.

The Axholme Academy group carried out their expedition in Blyton and surrounding villages.

One of the party, Chloe Hunter, aged 14, said: “The walk seemed very quick as we worked well together as a team and got each other to the end.”

Nima Afrasiabi, 16, added: “The expedition was very challenging and I feel motivated to complete our final expedition.”

Thanks to the Rescue Day Committee at 7 Lakes Country Park, the students were well equipped. The donation of £1,000 funded tents, sleeping bags, gas stoves and rucksacks.

Alex Hunter, 16, said, “Without the donation from Rescue Day, we would not have been able to complete this expedition.”

Ewan Downing, 15, added that the award has taught him life skills and made him a better person.

The staff spokesperson said: “We would like to express how proud we are of our students and hope they continue to achieve in their Silver Award. The support we have had from the local community with regards to use of facilities and assistance in purchasing our equipment through 7 Lakes and Chafors in Crowle has been excellent.”