from a regional conference in Florida where they met with Royalty itself -- Prince Edward.

Chairman of the Bermuda programme Lawrence Trimingham, and council members Kenneth Bartram and Andrew Dobson were pictured with the HRH the Earl of Wessex after he gave the main address.

It was the first time a conference had been held for countries in the newly-formed Americas Region of the programme.

A number of workshops were held and the conference also provided an opportunity for members to share the experiences of operating the programme in different countries.

Mr. Bartram said: "A workshop on young offenders showed the potential benefits of the award programme to this section of the youth.

"I hope that Bermuda can continue to include young offenders in the programme, as it has done in the past.

"There are great benefits to be gained by both the young offenders themselves and the community as a whole.'' And the occasion also provided a chance for the members to plan this year's major summer expedition for Gold participants, which will be held on the island of Dominica.

Almost 400 young people in Bermuda are currently enrolled in the programme -- one of the highest rates in any country operating the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

Mixing with royalty: From left: Chairman of Bermuda Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme Lawrence Trimingham, council member Andrew Dobson, HRH the Earl of Wessex, and council member Kenneth Bartram at the international conference.