New Year Honours

Dedicated volunteers from St John Ambulance have had their work officially recognised by Her Majesty The Queen in the New Year Honours.

Honours are given to people from all walks of life and all sections of society who have made a difference to their community. There are several different types of award, each one recognising a different type of contribution.

Amongst the volunteers recognised from St John was Bob Hutton, Assistant County Commissioner and County Executive Officer in Surrey who was given an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire).

Bob has worked his way up since joining St John as a young Cadet in 1958. In addition to Bob’s 50 years of service to St John, he has also been a Special Constable, is a Magistrate and has also been for many years a Parish Councillor and also Chairman of West Wittering Parish Council.

Honours for community, voluntary and local service make up 39% of the awards.

Harry Dymond, Chief Commissioner Operations, said: 'It is wonderful that St John Ambulance volunteers have been recognised in the New Year Honours for the important role they play in local communities.

‘St John Ambulance volunteers never expect rewards in return for their efforts but we’re proud of them and pleased that the huge amount of dedication and hard work that they’ve put in over many years has been noticed at the highest level.'