24 SEPTEMBER 2005, Page 21

Still royal, still ducal

From Peter Westgarth Sir: Contrary to press speculation (The Spectator’s Notes, 17 September) the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has no plans to change its name or remove reference to its royal heritage. There has never been, and never will be, any intention of moving from the royal patronage we enjoy. Similarly we have no intention to rebrand the organisation. Our logo and corporate style will remain the same.

As the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award nears its 50th anniversary year, we plan to use every opportunity to celebrate the tremendous achievements of the Duke and the organisation he founded and nurtured. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award will also build on its capacity to reach many more young people with the award programme.

Peter Westgarth

Chief executive, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Windsor, Berkshire