From orienteering to relaxing on Sark's shores...

Wednesday 11 September 2024

A DofE journey that took place over five days saw a "dedicated group" of seven individuals engaging in a variety of projects from looking after Sark's natural beauty to taking a plunge into the island's crystal-clear waters.

The participants, aged 17-19 who had never met prior to this adventure, took on their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Residential 2024 in Sark in August to fulfill the Residential component of the prestigious award.

The group collaborated closely with the Sark Seigneur; Christopher Beaumont, and the "talented" gardening team at the Seigneury Gardens, where they undertook a variety of different tasks.

The group helped to clear paths, weeding, and planting flora throughout the gardens, enhancing the landscape and developing their teamwork and practical skills.

Pictured: Participants getting muddy while they helped to "enhance the Seigneury Gardens."

Scott Dorrity; Group Leader and DofE Coordinator, said: "This residential experience has been transformative for our participants.

"Not only did they contribute to the local community, but they also embraced the spirit of adventure and teamwork that the Duke of Edinburgh Award promotes.

"I'm incredibly proud of what they have achieved and the legacy they will leave on the island of Sark."

The participants also took advantage of the island's coastline by hitting the beach for some sea swimming.

Pictured (l-r): William Meeks, Owen Fraser, Adam Fleming, Christopher Beaumont (Sark Seigneur), Jemima Vhadra, Hannah Livestro, Thomas Gavey and William Nicholson.

Adam Fleming (19), Gold DofE Participant, said: "The residential was a great way for me to interact and get to know a bunch of people I would never normally talk to and form unlikely friendships. Which in turn resulted in us having a lot of fun for the time we spent away together."

The group, who were seen to be getting along well, cooked together and enjoyed delicious local food.

"I also think it taught me a few new social skills as previously I haven't had to socialise with people younger than me so getting to know them and helping them out when necessary was really interesting." said Mr Flemming.

"I also enjoyed the social aspect in the evening when we would sit around and just talk swapping life stories was especially interesting to hear you share your experiences."

As the orienteers dove into Sark's history and took in the stunning landscapes that Sark has to offer, they created: "lasting memories and connections among the group," he said.