YOUNGSTERS on a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme have completed a gruelling expedition.

The participants, from Bishop Auckland, Newton Aycliffe and Durham City, took part in a four-day, 50-mile self-sufficiency expedition.

The team was split into two groups. One consisted of Michelle Cockburn, Mark Richardson, John Bates and Laura Dent; the other Eve Hornsby, Chris Walsh, Sam Jackson and Hannah Stace.

The teams set off from Buttermere Youth Hostel, in the Lake District, for a 25km walk. After a rough night's sleep, the blister-stricken eight hobbled their way through day two. The third day involved a 480-metre climb. As the intrepid youngsters reached the top they were met by their supervisors, who had balloons to celebrate Eve's 21st birthday.

Anyone aged 14 to 25-years interested in taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme can attend an open evening at Newton Aycliffe Youth Centre on Sunday, November 10, from 6.30pm.

For more information telephone (01325) 312520.