SCHOOL pupils from across East Renfrewshire gathered recently to celebrate their achievements as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme.

Awards ranging from bronze to gold were earned by the students for their volunteering, physical, skills and expedition achievements. 

East Renfrewshire Council is the second-biggest provider of Duke of Edinburgh participants in Scotland as well as the second highest for completion rates of full awards. 

Over the past year East Renfrewshire students have completed 12,000 hours of volunteering in the local community. 

The circus-themed celebration took place inside a blue-and-white striped high-top tent in Rouken Glen Park. 

Councillor Colm Merrick, convener of community services and community safety, handed out the awards. 

He said: “It was fantastic to meet so many hard-working, passionate young people at the awards. 

“They have done some incredible work and it’s clear that they have truly earned their Duke of Edinburgh badges. 

“The year 2018 is the Year of Young People and it’s living up to the name with everyone honoured at these awards proving that they can achieve anything they wish as long as they work hard and persevere.”