A student from Ongar joined young people from all over the country at St James's Palace to receive a Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award at a ceremony attended by Prince Philip.

Rebecca Bowring, 21, of Longfields, had previously won bronze and silver awards under the scheme which concentrates on service, expeditions, skills and physical recreation.

She said: "It was a marvellous occasion and great to have all the hard work recognised in this way."

Rebecca, a former Shenfield High School pupil, is currently studying for a Higher National Diploma in Public Service at St Helen's, Merseyside, and is a special constable in the local police force.

She said: "I intend to finish a degree in psychology with sociology or criminology and then come home and join Essex Police."

A smiling Rebecca is pictured with her presentation certificate.

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