A HARD-WORKING 17-year-old was recognised for his achievements by royalty at the Devon County Show. Sam Bowyer, of Gordon Road, Topsham, scooped a bronze Duke of Edinburgh award in February.

A HARD-WORKING 17-year-old was recognised for his achievements by royalty at the Devon County Show.Sam Bowyer, of Gordon Road, Topsham, scooped a bronze Duke of Edinburgh award in February. The Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward, congratulated him on his success on the opening day of the event last Thursday.Sam achieved the award after his input in an Exeter-based project, where he worked with police in helping to engage young people to take part in voluntary work and community activities."It was a great privilege to meet a member of the royal family," he said. Sam also took part in a marksmanship course, archery and an expedition assessing man-made and natural hazards in East Devon."Everybody wants to meet royalty - it is the pinnacle of any achievement. It was hard to achieve the bronze, but I would recommend anybody to do it."Sam, who is studying for a painter and decorating NVQ at Exeter College, added: "My confidence has grown so much by being involved with the work. I used to be a shy person, but it has definitely made me more extrovert."Prince Edward talked to Sam and two further award-winners from the county.Dillon Hughes, a youth officer from Devon County Council, said there were a number of people from the area who participated in the awards. "They have all set themselves individual challenges and risen to meet them," he explained."They are to be congratulated on their achievements, particularly in the commitment they have shown to completing their Duke of Edinburgh."Devon is particularly fortunate in having such dedicated staff and volunteers working with participants in a wide range of settings.