Alderney showcases unique award event
HE WAS back into the helicopter and waving goodbye to well-wishers by 12.30pm, but Prince Edward's brief visit certainly left a sunny impression on Alderney.
The ninth in line to the throne was there yesterday to meet young islanders embarking on the island's rejuvenated Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme.
Prince Edward landed on Braye Common, escorted by Lt-Governor Vice-Admiral Sir Ian Corder.
He was met by States President Stuart Trought and his wife, Jane, St Anne's School head teacher Martin Winward, plus DofE Award co-ordinator Martyn Brown, and led down to the beach where pupils and their teachers enacted a sea swimming lesson and demonstrated life-saving techniques on the sand.
Life-saving is one of the skills that pupils often choose to pursue as part of the scheme in Alderney.
Mr Brown said afterwards: 'It's been quite magical. The children have loved it, they really wanted to showcase what they do because it's quite unique.
'We are the only school that does sea swimming and the life-saving award – and it makes the school and the community quite special.'
