Hard work paid off as five Wisbech Grammar School pupils picked up the highest honour you can claim on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Gold awards have been handed to 18 year-olds Patrick Rusman, Ian Gitonga, Rakhee Keshwara, Samuel Eales and Callum Ward. As part of the award, they completed an expedition in the Lake District.

In total, 160 pupils at the school are taking part in the scheme, with more than 60 participants aged 14 and above gaining an award since September.

Head of outdoor learning Dominic Garfoot said: “I am delighted that so many of our pupils have committed themselves to activities outside the classroom and within the local community.

“Holding a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award says a great deal about the personal qualities of these pupils.

“Special mention should go to the five gold award holders, who have shown a great deal of motivation and tenacity to reach this level.

“I am sure that this will be very beneficial to them as they proceed to higher education and industry at the end of their school careers.”