Royal welcome for Lucy Westlake at Buckingham Palace

17 year-old Lucy Westlake (second from right in photograph) from Highbridge was welcomed to Buckingham Palace by HRH the Princess Royal, who is a patron of St John Ambulance, on Wednesday 3 November at the charity’s annual Young Achievers’ Reception.  

Young people honoured

Over 120 young people were invited to the Palace for 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 all made outstanding contributions during their time as young volunteers with the organisation.

Lucy was nominated as a young achiever, due to her hard work, and her overall dedication to the role of Cadet of the year in Somerset.

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.

Lucy said: ‘I really enjoyed the day, I’m so happy to have been invited to the Young Achievers Reception. It was a great honour to meet her Royal Highness, a once in a life time experience and something I will never forget.’

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, 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.’

‘Lucy has been an asset to her local community all year round and she fully deserved to be rewarded with an invitation to the Palace.’

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