THIRTEEN people from in and around Okehampton are defying the odds and pushing themselves to the limit as they attempt to achieve a unique set of awards. The 13 all have learning disabilities and are striving to achieve their Gateway Awards, an equivalent to the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. The scheme requires the group to work towards and complete five tasks: a life skill, a hobby, a physical recreation, a service and a challenge or expedition. Like the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, there are three levels to the Gateway Award, bronze, silver and gold, with each dependent on the numbers of hours worked and the tasks achieved. Matthew Williams, 34, from South Zeal, is enjoying the tasks he sets himself. For his physical recreation he has been attending horse riding sessions at Skaigh Stables near Belstone. Said Matthew: 'Horse riding is brilliant and it's hard work! I'm working hard and I am going to get my certificate. The staff that help are good.' Members of the group are being supported by Devon County Council's Puzzletree Fulfilling Lives team to undertake the awards with each group member deciding what activities they would like to do. As well as Matthew's horse riding, David Skrzypczak, 49, from South Zeal, has learned to write and send an e-mail, and 24 year-old Richard Bonner, from Hatherleigh, hopes to complete an abseil as part of his challenge. To deliver a service, the group is working as a team to 'send a cow to Africa'. Through various fundraising events, including a coffee morning and a home-made cake sale, the group hopes to raise £650 to buy a cow for a rural community in Africa. Devon County Council's executive member for adult and community services, Cllr Hugo Barton, said: 'The Gateway Award is an excellent scheme that is encouraging people to try new things and broaden their experience. 'Each member of the group is doing really well and they are well on track to achieving the level of award that each of them has chosen. 'Our Fulfilling Lives team is also providing excellent support to help people achieve the things they really want to do in their lives.'
