St John recognises volunteers and young members at awards ceremony

Sunday 24 March 2019

St John Guernsey volunteers and youth members have been recognised for their achievements at the charity's annual awards presentation ceremony.

38 trophies and awards were handed out over the course of the afternoon last weekend, in front of the Knight Commander Andrew Henton and Chairman of the charity Jurat David Hodgetts.

Long-serving volunteer Paul Kennedy was awarded one of the top adult trophies - the 'Spirit of Order' award. He has been a member of St John for nearly 30 years and has given up his time to give first aid cover at many local events. Mr Kennedy also helps maintain St John's fleet of vehicles and is a volunteer for the Patient Transport Service.

Pictured: Paul Kennedy with Chief Operating Officer Nikki Harrison.

First aider and youth leader Darryl Bye was recognised for his overall contribution to the organisation, while Josh Bonsall was given an award for the most public duties attended during the year.

Joshua Blanchard, who has been appointed 2019 St John Guernsey Cadet of the Year, received the Phyllis Touzeau Trophy for service and extracurricular activities and will represent the charity at events throughout this year.

He is taking over from outgoing Cadet of the Year Matthew Holland, who collected four awards including the Madge Wherry Trophy for Commitment and the young person's 'Spirit of Order' award, which was presented by the Mr Henton.

"Matthew has been a star," said Mr Henton. "We are lucky to have had such a fantastic character representing us. He has a wise head and maturity and has been a real asset to Guernsey when he has represented us at national level.

Pictured: Matthew Holland with Knight Commander Andrew Henton.

"The youth sections are our future and it is wonderful to recognise what everyone has contributed during the year. These are young people who want to get away from their computers and tablets and get out and enjoy the sort of activities which help build confidence."

Louis Bell was named Badger of the Year, with Katherine Brache as Deputy Badger of the Year. Several Badgers were also given their Super Badger awards for completing subjects.

Jurat Hodgetts added: "It is a fitting end to a year that has seen a number of changes to the youth sections and have resulted in increasing numbers, improving standards and most importantly young people enjoying themselves."

'Thank you' gifts were presented to youth leaders, Jackie Pattimore, Lucy Ozanne, Darryl Bye, Michelle Bihet and Jason and Annette Gallienne. 

St John Guernsey Chief Operating Officer Nikki Harrison said “All our youth leaders give a huge amount of time to St John and they have all worked really hard to help us put the recent changes in place. We are very lucky to have such a dedicated Youth team.”