St John Ambulance volunteers rewarded for service

The ceremony began with the Knight Commander of the Order of St John, Sir William Hall, conferring membership and promotions within the Order of St John. The Order of St John is unique, being an Order of Chivalry under the Crown and having five grades of membership.

Lisburn man Len Murray was promoted to Grade Three, having given long and distinguished service to St John Ambulance which began in the 1950’s and continued right up until 2011 when he completed a successful term has District Commissioner.

Volunteers from the charity’s divisions throughout Northern Ireland travelled to Hillsborough to the ceremony, where 21 volunteers that together represent a whooping 475 years of service, were recognised for their outstanding contribution. The Knight Commander Sir William Hall presented ‘Service Medal of the Order’ accolades. These were awarded to four volunteers for completing 12 years of voluntary service within the charity.

These were awarded to Frances Brady (West Belfast Division), Chris Delaney (Ormeau Division), Alan Irwin (Portadown Division) and Freda McCormick (Eastern Area).

The Knight Commander, Sir William Hall commented on the achievements of the volunteers.

“This is the third occasion where I have presented volunteers with accolades for service and at each event I am reminded of the vital first aid service that the volunteers provide. It is a privilege for me to recognise their years of service,” said Sir William.

“The fact that we have volunteers receiving accolades, for over 12 to a remarkable 37 years of service, is an outstanding achievement and not one that many organisations can celebrate. I am delighted to be able to present the awards and congratulate all the recipients,” he added.

For more information on St. John Ambulance services visit www.ni.sja.org.uk or call 028 90 799 393.