Watch your back Bear Grylls – four students are hot on your heels.

Barking and Dagenham Post: James Green with his certificateJames Green with his certificate (Image: Archant)

James Green, Jessie Trimmer, Ezra Rimell and Jeddiah Rimell canoed a total of 150km down the River Wye and camped out on their own for four days to achieve the prestigious gold Duke of Edinburgh award.

Three of the four young adventurers received their certificates from world record swimmer Mark Foster and met Prince Phillip during a ceremony at St James’ Palace held last month.

All four completed their award at Dagenham’s Vibe Youth Centre in Becontree Avenue.

Cllr Evelyn Carpenter, cabinet member for educational attainment, said: “What these young people have accomplished is a great achievement – they are a credit to the borough.

“I hope all our young people take inspiration.”