DOZENS of hardy students have been handed a prestigious honour after completing an expedition and hundreds of hours of volunteering.

Pupils from St Mary's School in Colchester were presented their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze and Silver awards at a special celebration evening.

Some of the 69 recipients were interviewed about their experiences whilst giving up their own time to help others, while others gave tips about how to survive expeditions

Principal Hilary Vipond said “This is the eleventh year that we have run the award scheme and once again it was a delight to share these achievements with parents and staff.

"Valued highly by colleges, universities and employers, the D of E Award has provided our students with some life-changing experiences, as well having been a lot of fun.”