MORE than 100 youngsters from the North-East will visit St James' Palace, in London, next month to receive their Duke of Edinburgh Gold award certificate.

Ninety-eight youngsters will travel to the palace on Friday, November 7, while the remaining ten will attend on November 20.

Each of them has achieved the award by undertaking physical and community-based activities over at least 18 months.

Many have worked with children, the elderly, the sick or the disabled, while others have tackled conservation, restoration and photographic projects.

Vice-Admiral Michael Gretton, director of The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, said: "To have gained a gold award is a great accomplishment.

"The skills and qualities all these young people have developed will help them stand on their own two feet and prepares them to be good citizens of the future.

"They all deserve congratulating, and I hope they enjoy their special day at the palace."

The youngsters will be presented with their awards by the Duke of Edinburgh, and they will also meet a number of celebrities, including champion swimmer James Hickman, Jane Maxwell, from The Bill, and yachtswoman Tracy Edwards.

A total of 877 people from across the UK will attend the presentation on November 7, while 845 will be welcomed at the second event.