Boy, 14, is St John Ambulance cadet of the year

A teenager from Suffolk has been named St John Ambulance's Regional Cadet of the Year for the East of England.

Ruben, 14, from Needham Market, demonstrated outstanding first aid skills to be chosen from 35 other talented youngsters.

The Stowupland High School student, who volunteers at the Stowmarket Cadet unit, will now represent St John Ambulance at ceremonial occasions and other events.

"It means a lot to represent the East of England," he said. "I hope it encourages other young people to get involved with St John Ambulance and learn first aid."

The competition for Regional Cadet of the Year, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, took place at Ingestre Hall near Stafford.

Ruben and his fellow finalists took part in a series of exercises including first aid scenarios, teamwork and problem-solving tasks, presentations, interviews and group discussions, all assessed by a panel of judges.

Many of the challenges were based on real-life situations cadets may encounter while volunteering in their communities such as cardiac arrest, seizures, fractures, heat-related problems, major bleeds and severe asthma attacks.

Ruben said: "Being part of St John Ambulance has given me so many opportunities to learn new skills and build confidence, and it's taught me how important first aid can be when someone needs help."

He also enjoys cycling and Muay Thai, but told Wayne Bavin of BBC Radio Suffolk that he particularly loves being a cadet.

"You get to meet so many new people from so many different backgrounds," he said. "It's just lovely to get to know my community."

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