A LONG-SERVING volunteer for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award has been recognised for his incredible service.

Barry Jackman, a retired teacher, has dedicated much of his life to the scheme which has been inspiring young people since 1956.

In the week the Duke of Edinburgh would have celebrated his 100th birthday, Barry was handed a DoE Long Service Award for his 47 years of voluntary duty.

During that time, he has worked with young people in the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Far East as well as the Isle of Wight, and led expeditions in deserts and tropical rainforests.

Barry, who lives in East Cowes, remembers fondly undertaking his own Silver expedition in the New Forest as a young boy of 15 in 1961.

He also recalls meeting the Duke of Edinburgh at Portsmouth Guildhall on one of his many visits to the city.

Barry's first post as a DoE volunteer was in Leigh Park, Portsmouth, in 1968.

Two years later, he and his wife, Ruth, moved to the Island where Barry took up a teaching post at Cowes High School.

He said: "The DoE scheme at Cowes High School took off and became one of the largest groups in England.

"Young people gained all three levels of the award which meant we were able to be guests at Gold award ceremonies in London.

"I have a photo of my son sat in a washing up bowl in a mini-caravan on Exmoor when he was less than six months old. He is now approaching 50!"

Since records began in 2002, around 1,000 young people on the Island have completed their DoE Award — including more than 200 Gold awards.

Cllr Debbie Andre, cabinet member for children's services, education and skills, said: "My thanks go to Barry for his years of service. I hope his story will inspire others to come forward as leaders for the Duke of Edinburgh Award programme.

"This is a fitting tribute to its founder, Prince Philip, and I hope it will continue to equip those who take part with valuable skills for life in years to come.”

To find out more about becoming a DoE volunteer, email: carol.taverner@iow.gov.uk