STEPHEN Carter of 2300 (St Athan) Squadron was recently awarded his Duke of Edinburgh Gold award in a ceremony at St James's Palace, in London - attended by Prince Philip himself.

Stephen, a driving force on the Squadron, has worked tirelessly, not only towards his own Gold award, but also in assisting those Cadets under his command.

Stephen has spent more than a year completing the five required elements of the scheme: Skills, Service, Physical, Residential and Expedition.

The highlight of his Gold was the expedition to the Peak District, where bleak, wild country and navigating the moorland in rain, fog and sleet certainly added to the challenge.

Stephen has been a member of 2300 (St Athan) Squadron for six years.

In a long and distinguished career with the Air Training Corps, he has flown in military aircraft, and enjoyed gliding, sport, shooting, hillwalking, camping, and attending summer camps at RAF stations.

He has also enjoyed fund-raising for the Royal Air Forces Association, and has also flown solo in powered aircraft and gliders.

l If you have a spirit for adventure, 2300 Squadron have vacancies for boys and girls between 13-18 years old. The Squadron parade on Mondays and Wednes-days 7pm-9.30pm at RAF St Athan, reporting first to the East Camp Guardroom, or you can phone the Squadron on 797189 or visit Squadron website for more information www.2300sqn.tk