A host of talented teenagers were presented with their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards in regal surroundings.

St James’ Palace in London was the host for the 11 Enfield young people to take centre stage and receive their awards from Channel 4 news reader Jon Snow.

To gain a Gold Award, applicants must complete five sections – volunteering, skills, physical, expedition and residential, in one year of their school life.

Not only did the winners meet the broadcaster, they were also greeted by HRH the Duke of Edinburgh himself in the throne room of the Palace.

Angelica Chrysanthou, 19, who is now studying at Loughborough university after winning her award, admitted it was a “surreal” day but “very special” at the same time.

She added: “Being in the presence of The Patron HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in the beautiful Throne Room of St. James’s Palace made the tough Gold Award treks even more worthwhile.

“I felt very special to be presented with my certificate by Jon Snow, who showed a genuine interest in each individual award winner and asked us about our most memorable experience during our gold award.

“During our experience a special bond was formed with the other team members and it was great to meet up with them again together with our group leader to share this wonderful day. I will look back on this amazing time with tremendous pride and a great sense of achievement.”

Councillor Bambos Charalambous, cabinet member for young people said: "The eleven young people who achieved their Gold Duke of Edinburgh award are a credit to Enfield and we are immensely proud of their achievements.

“It is wonderful that we have so many young people participating in such a worthwhile scheme in their free time and which results in great personal development for them too as they put themselves to the test."