A YOUNG woman, who was once so shy she needed a trained youth worker to accompany her to a Duke of Edinburgh meeting, has been chosen for a prestigious and highly selective ambassador role.

Alice Hutchinson, from Redcar, received her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award three years ago.

For Miss Hutchinson, the achievement was particularly special: prior to this, she was too nervous to even attend DofE meetings, and her anxiety levels were such that DofE youth worker Donna Leighton needed to accompany her to all early get togethers.

As she participated more and more, Miss Hutchinson’s confidence grew.

Now a holder of a First Class degree in Physical and Outdoor Education from Leeds Beckett University, she has just been named as one of only twenty Duke of Edinburgh Centenary Youth Ambassadors in the country.

Deputy Leader of the Council, Alison Barnes, who has responsibility for Children and Families, said: “This is an incredible achievement which deserves significant recognition. It is testament to Alice’s personal resilience and strength, but also the life-changing impact that participating in a scheme like DofE can bring.”

The one-off programme involves twenty remarkable young people coming together from across the country to design campaigns and programmes geared towards helping other young people gain confidence as we emerge from Covid.

The 21-year-old is now a former pupil of Sacred Heart School in Redcar and has a place on a teacher training course lined up for September, where she will train as a PE teacher.

She explained how she submitted a video to a national panel about her story with the prompting of her peers from the DofE.

She said: “I’m really pleased to get the role but now I want it to really mean something and make a difference for other young people like me who just need to boost their confidence.

“After Covid and so many people being in lockdown at a crucial part of their life, it is more important than ever.”

Elaine Buckby, Redcar and Cleveland Council’s Awards and Activities Coordinator, said: “I knew she’d be perfect.

“Alice understands the value of building confidence and the huge impact a scheme like the DofE Awards can have.

"Alice and I did interviews for Tyne Tees TV and Global Radio after Prince Philip died and she shone, full of confidence. I could not be more proud.”

Find out more about the Duke of Edinburgh Awards by calling on 01287 634332, or elaine.buckby@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk.