St John names District Cadet of the Year
Robin Leake Date and Eleanor Bond have been chosen as the district’s Cadet and Badger of the Year respectively for 2024 and they received their awards at the St John Ambulance Worthing unit.
Robin, a Cadet Corporal from Portslade and Shoreham, competed against her peers in a series of assessments covering first aid, communication, teamwork, presentation and social skills.
Following a close competition, Robin was named as the District Cadet of the Year for Sussex, receiving her certificate of participation from district manager Darren Owen and award from Deputy Lieutenant Lady Fiona Barttelot.
She will now go forward to represent the county throughout the year and attend the National Cadet of the Year competition in 2024.
Sussex was also delighted to name its new Badger of the Year. Eleanor Bond, from Portslade and Shoreham, took part in a series of interactive activities and scenarios, including storytelling and basic first aid.
Eleanor shone throughout the day and was over the moon having been chosen.
Also confirmed were the incoming Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets for the county.
Having come a close second during the District Cadet of the Year competition, Erin Morra, from Southwick Unit, was chosen alongside Robin to represent the county as Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets for West and East Sussex respectively – an incredible opportunity that will see them act as ambassadors for Sussex at regional events.
Darren Owen said “As district manager, I am so proud of our young people. Today we really put them through their paces.
"It was a very high scoring group and it was close at the top. These are inspiring young people, well done to them all. Congratulations to Robin and Erin, our outstanding cadets, and Ellie, our outstanding Badger.”
St John Cadets provides young people aged 10 to 17 the opportunity to learn vital first aid and life skills, and work towards recognised awards. Older cadets can also become qualified first aiders.
Our Badger programme for ages five to nine covers a wide range of subjects and activities.
For information on how to join our youth programme, visit youthjoining.sja.org.uk