The Earl of Wessex has presented 17 young Bermudians with Gold Awards, the pinnacle of achievement of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards programme.

Prince Edward was at the Gold Awards Ceremony at Government House today, hosted by Governor John Rankin, with Michael Dunkley, the Premier, education minister Cole Simons and environment minister Sylvan Richards in attendance.

A Government press release said Mr Dunkley held a productive discussion with the Earl, in which they talked about “current challenges” including the passport issue and the Uighurs.

Prince Edward and Mr Rankin also hosted a working lunch for Deputy Governor Ginny Ferson, Senator Jeff Baron, the Minister of National Security, Commissioner of Police Michael DeSilva, Commissioner of Corrections Edward Lamb and Attorney-General Trevor Moniz.

The afternoon of Government House activities closed with the Earl performing a ceremonial Cedar Tree planting on the Government House grounds.

Prince Edward arrived in Bermuda on Thursday and has conducted several community engagements, including visits to CedarBridge Academy, Mount St Agnes, BIOS and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club.

Other engagements include attending a Gala event later this evening and participating in a 50th Anniversary Commemorative Church Service tomorrow morning. He will also have an opportunity to see the America’s Cup facilities in Royal Naval Dockyard.

For a list of Duke of Edinburgh award winners, click on the PDF under “Related Media”