Nine young people from Anglesey visited Buckingham Palace after acheiving gold Duke of Edinburgh awards.

They were Osian and Niamh Reid and Molly Harwood from Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi; Beca Stuart and Cerys Michael from Ysgol Gyfun Llangefni; along with Nel Scott, Cira Williams, and sisters Awen and Llio Mutembo from Ysgol David Hughes.

The Gold Award is the highest level of achievement in the Duke of Edinburgh's programme and can take up to two years to complete.

Led and supported by Anglesey Council's Youth Service, participants must complete a challenging programme involving a four-day expedition, volunteering, physical activity, learning new skills and taking part in a residential project.

Throughout the journey, the group built confidence, enhanced their teamwork abilities, and embraced greater independence.

Many of Anglesey's gold winners completed their walking expeditions close to home - either in Eryri or along the island's coastal path - as part of their bronze and silver awards, helping to strengthen their knowledge of local landscapes and heritage.

Reflecting on her achievement, Molly Harwood said: "Completing my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award was a real challenge but overall, an experience I will never forget."

"It pushed me beyond my comfort zone, taught me resilience, independence and teamwork and left me with memories and skills I'll carry forward into every part of life."

Niamh Reid said: "Taking part in this experience really helped me grow in confidence and develop new skills, especially around teamwork and communication."

"One of the biggest challenges was stepping out of my comfort zone, but it taught me resilience and how to keep going even when things felt tough."

"I also learned how to listen to others and contribute my own ideas. It was certainly worth doing, and I'd recommend it to anyone – it's a great way to learn, make new friends and to surprise yourself with what you can achieve."

Sioned Sawicz, school and area officer from the council's youth service, said: "We're incredibly proud of all the young people who have taken part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award on Anglesey. They've worked hard and shown real character and determination to earn the Gold Award."

"Visiting Buckingham Palace to collect their awards was an unforgettable experience, one which I'm sure will live with them forever."

Cllr Dafydd Roberts, who holds the education portfolio, added: "Congratulations to all our latest Gold Award winners on this fantastic achievement. The journey to attaining the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award provides important life skills and fantastic memories."

"I'd like to wish them all the best in their next steps, whether that's further education, training or employment. Da iawn pawb!"

If you're interested in taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh awards, email the council's youth service via SionedSawicz@ynysmon.llyw.cymru