FOUR Tavistock Ranger Guides recently received their silver Duke of Edinburgh awards in a presentation from Tavistock councillor, Anne Johnson, a life-long supporter of D of E.

Lydia Marks, Chloe Paxman, Millie Steel and Louise Pilkington showed huge courage and commitment to the scheme when they completed their assessed expedition – walking in some of the wettest Dartmoor weather conditions ever seen by the assessors!

They were joined by two other scouts, Mike and Scott, to make up the team of six.

The purpose of their expedition was to make a photographic record of the uses of stone on Dartmoor, beginning at Peter Tavy, skirting the moor to Sampford Spiney and onto Yellowmead Farm.

A spokesperson said: ‘The first night’s camp was pitched in driving rain with a very wet team continuing the second day to Bellever to camp and the team finally finished at Warren House Inn.

‘The girls also undertook challenges to improve aspects of their existing skills for the award – one improving cooking skills and the others their musical skills, even learning to sing a capella! New sports featured for the girls too, three taking up badminton whilst Millie learned how to sail in moderate winds – a useful talent for recent weather.

‘Lydia, Millie, Chloe and Louise have been involved with Girlguiding for most of their young lives and while achieving this award, have all increased their voluntary commitment to Girlguiding by helping at local Rainbow and Brownie units.

‘The presentation event, watched by parents and Girlguiding leaders, was hosted by Councillor Johnson in Tavistock’s Town Council Chamber, who noted that the girls had received their Bronze D of E awards from Carrie Johnson, her daughter.’