Royal welcome for Jessica and George at Buckingham Palace

Two young members of St John Ambulance Isle of Man were welcomed to Buckingham Palace on Thursday 3 November for the charity’s annual Young Achievers’ Reception.

More than 120 young people were invited to the reception, which acknowledged their hard work and commitment to the charity. The event honoured St John Ambulance Badgers, Cadets and young carers who have made outstanding contributions during their time as young volunteers with the organisation.

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.

First aid training proved invaluable

Jessica Hales, nine, of Lower Foxdale, helped save her mum Jackie’s life after she collapsed at home earlier this year. The quick-thinking St John’s School pupil reclined the chair her mum was in, raised her legs using cushions and applied a cold flannel to her mum’s head before summoning dad Chris to help. Mrs Hales, who had dangerously high blood pressure, made a full recovery.

Jessica, a member of Onchan Badger sett, said she was proud to have been selected to go to the Palace and meet the Princess.

George Quilliam, 17, of Port St Mary, was invited to attend the reception as St John Ambulance Isle of Man’s Cadet of the Year. George, who studies health and social care at the Isle of Man College, cares for his mum, Anna, and has saved her from choking. He has also assisted with treating casualties while on duty.

The Peel Cadet described the Palace visit as ‘an amazing opportunity’.

St John Ambulance believes that every young person should have the chance 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, Head of Youth 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 enjoy the surroundings of Buckingham Palace for the day.’

‘Jessica and George have been assets to their local community all year round and they fully deserved to be rewarded with an invitation to the Palace.’

For further information about St John Ambulance Isle of Man or to find out how to sign up for first aid courses, volunteer or support its work via donations, ring 01624 674387.