Jack Mudge abseiled a cliff-face and went caving to ensure he won a very special certificate.

The 19-year-old collected his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award from the man himself, Prince Phillip, when he visited St James’ Palace.

Former Bicester Community college student Mr Mudge, who is working towards an NVQ qualification in football at Oxford Academy, in Banbury.

Young people have to complete a series of tasks including a volunteering, an expedition and learning a new skill.

As part of the award, Mr Mudge abseiled a cliff-face, went on an expedition to the Lake District, and volunteering at the local cub pack.

For the residential element, which is done at gold level, Mr Mudge volunteered to be a teacher’s assistant at Bicester’s Glory Farm School.

Mr Mudge said: “It has been a very long but rewarding process.

“When I first started the award at Bronze level I never thought I would have made it to completing gold.

“It was my biggest challenge to date. I will never forget some of the most amazing people I’ve met through this whole experience. I have many brilliant memories.

“I will also never forget the skills that I acquired from being a teacher’s assistant and going caving to learning how to go across a field full of angry cows.

“But the thing that stands out most is meeting the Duke of Edinburgh. Few people have the privilege of doing that.”

Mr Mudge eventually hopes to join the RAF and become a physical training instructor.