Our Group has a new Group Leader, Brian, for the next meeting on March 13th 2025 at 10.30am at Walton Community Centre, in the Meeting Room.
Do come along to find out more about us.

THE DISCOVERY AWARD (Based on the Duke of Edinburgh Award)

Do you ever wish that you could have taken part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme? - - - well, now you can, very nearly!

The Discovery Award is an achievement Award offering challenges to individuals in the 50+ age range. It enables people to increase their contribution to the community around them and encourages the taking up of new hobbies or the advancement of existing ones. The Award is open to anyone over the age of 50 regardless of level of ability or state of health and there is no upper age limit. We meet periodically perhaps 4 times a year and sometimes go for a walk or outings or meet up for a meal

The four sections are the same as the D of E scheme:

- Service in the Community
- Hobby or interest
- Recreational pursuit
- The Journey of Discovery – this can be an actual expedition or it could be a metaphorical journey such as researching your family tree.

The three levels are same as the D of E Scheme – Bronze, Silver and Gold.

The Award is completely non-competitive but all sections should challenge the individual. U3A classes can be used for some sections.

We recently opened a bottle to celebrate the very first Gold Awards to be gained by members: Brian Astbury, Rosemary Astbury, Barbara Bourne, Annabel Evans and Helen Pemberton. Many congratulations to all concerned.
Challenges undertaken included walking part of the Great Wall of China, a study of listed buildings in North Staffs, helping with Brownies, organising the books at Katherine House charity shop and a study of the Olympic Games.

So, if you feel ready for a challenge and feel that this might be for you, do email Brian using the link above.