Alice Barrett appointed St John Ambulance Cadet of the year 2007

15 January 2007

Alice Barrett a 17-year-old cadet from London has been named the St John Ambulance National Cadet of the year 2007.

Forty-three cadets from across the UK competed in the Cadet of the year competition in Nottingham this weekend. The annual competition comprises of interviews, team games and training sessions to help the panel of assessors choose the next young face of St John Ambulance.

As Cadet of the year, Alice will act as an ambassador for the organisation. Representing 12,000 Cadets, she will attend a range of public events including charity balls, award ceremonies and competitions.

‘I feel so proud to be the new national Cadet of the year - I have never cried of happiness before, until today,’ said Alice. ‘The weekend has been amazing, not only because of winning this title but I have also come away with 42 new friends.’

This year’s competition was close, three deputy cadets of the year were appointed instead of the usual two: Benjamin Gray, 15, from West Midlands; Matthew Todd, 16, from Durham and Claire Knighton, 17, from Somerset.

Sarah Holmes, Chief Commissioner Youth, comments: ‘At a time when young people are considered a nuisance to society, our Cadets have once again shown this weekend what an outstanding credit they are to the organisation, their families and the local community,’

‘It is a great achievement to be nominated to take part in this competition, let alone win it. Alice demonstrated tremendous dedication and enthusiasm over the course of the competition and we are delighted that she is our national Cadet of the year 2007.’