A first aider from Midsomer Norton was welcomed to St John Ambulance's annual Young Achievers' Reception by the charity's patron, HRH The Princess Royal, on Wednesday, 30th October.
Shyam Sawhney, aged sixteen, was among more than eighty young people invited to the event at Armoury House, in London, which acknowledged their hard work and commitment to the charity.
The event honoured St John Ambulance Badgers, Cadets, and Young Carers, who have all made outstanding contributions during their time as volunteers with the organisation.
Shyam helps with first aid training at the Norton Radstock Unit, where he is a Cadet. His ambition is to become a cardiothoracic surgeon and he has been on work experience at the Royal United Hospital and Circle, in Peasedown St John.
Each young person was given the honour of meeting HRH The Princess Royal – who has the official title of Commandant in Chief, Youth for St John Ambulance – and had the opportunity to discuss their experiences as a volunteer during the reception.
St John Ambulance believes that every young person should have the opportunity to learn basic life-saving skills. Working with young people, aged from five to 25, the organisation aims to provide a fun and safe environment to learn essential first aid.
The Young Achievers' Reception offers St John Ambulance the opportunity to reward the excellent work of their younger volunteers. Wendy Human, Director of Charitable Initiatives and Training at St John Ambulance said: "The reception is a great way for us to recognise the commitment and outstanding work of these young people. They have all proven themselves as outstanding
individuals and we hope that they are pleased with the opportunity to meet Her Royal Highness and enjoyed visiting London for the day.
"Shyam has been an asset to his local community all year round and fully deserved to be rewarded with an invitation to this event."
Find out more about St John Ambulance by calling: 08700 104950 or visit: http://www.sja.org.uk">www.sja.org.uk