But completing the bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award was worth it for a group of 11 youngsters from Leamington and Warwick, who will be rewarded for their efforts at a ceremony on Tuesday.

The pupils from Campion School and Aylesford School completed a training day walk in Hatton area, a practice expedition in Coventry, and their final assessment expedition in the Cotswolds.

Adam Eagles, one of the leaders of the Warwick Open Award group, which organises the trips, said: "The final expedition was exceptionally tough as the weather was so wet on the first day.

"They did very well to complete the second day, having heavy wet gear to carry."

The awards ceremony will take place at Coten End youth centre at 7.30pm.

Anyone can join the group, which meets at the centre every Tuesday at 7.30pm.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award involves working in teams to organise and complete an expedition, as well as spending time working on a skill, practising a sport and working for the community.

More information is available online.

www.warwickopenaward.co.uk