The Duke of York to become Patron of The Outward Bound Trust

Today it has been announced that The Duke of York will become Patron of the Outward Bound Trust, taking over from The Duke of Edinburgh who held the role since 1953.

The Outward Bound Trust was established in 1941 by Kurt Hahn, who also founded Gordonstoun School, where Their Royal Highnesses both attended. It was The Duke of Edinburgh’s active Patronage that was instrumental in the spreading the Outward Bound mission to more than 30 countries worldwide, helping over a million young people to participate in experiential outdoor learning programmes which develop character and instil self-belief and resilience.

The Duke of York has been a supporter of the Trust for a number of years, and 1999 he became Chair of the Board of Trustees. His Royal Highness chairs regular meetings with the Trustees and the Executive Team, and hosts a number of events to promote and support The Trust throughout the year.

In September 2012, The Duke led ‘The Descent of The Shard’ – an abseil from the top of Western Europe’s tallest building in support of The Outward Bound Trust and The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. His Royal Highness abseiled 820ft from the 87th floor to the 20th, alongside 39 others. The total raised from the event was in excess of £2.9 million.

On his appointment as Patron, The Duke of York said: “It is an enormous privilege to take up this appointment of Patron from my father, who has been a stalwart supporter of the Trust and its work since it was founded in 1941. I was interviewed by my father for a position on the board of Trustees before I was appointed and I knew from the outset his intent. I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenges and rewards of guiding the Trust these past few years and with the wise council and guidance from my father”.

It has also been announced that Princess Beatrice was elected to the Board of the Outward Bound Trust as a Trustee.

Bookmark the permalink.

Comments are closed