A young lifesaver from Talgarth was among eight young people to meet The Princess Royal last month on behalf of St John Ambulance Cymru.

Members of St John Ambulance Cymru’s Badger and Cadet programmes were honoured to attend the event at the Priory Church of St John in London, which celebrated their commitment to keeping their communities safe.

Harri Argent from Talgarth met with The Princess Royal, who congratulated the dozens of inspirational Cadets and Badgers for their hard work. The Princess Royal is the Commandant-in-Chief (Youth) of St John Ambulance.

The Young Achievers Reception, organised by St John Ambulance in England, allows young volunteers from across England and Wales to meet up and share their experiences.

The young people representing St John Ambulance Cymru at the event had been named the 2023 Badgers and Cadets of the year for each region in Wales, having shown a special commitment to the charity over the past year.

Joining Harri were Joseph Humphreys and Mali Stevenson from Pontypridd, Cariad Carpenter and Courtney Smith from Griffithstown, Daniel Summerfield from Bettws Cedewain, Rhys Clissold from Radyr and Izabelle Humphries from Deeside.

Mali Stevenson, National Cadet of the Year at St John Ambulance Cymru, said: “It was so inspiring to talk to so many other incredible Cadets and hear about their achievements.

“We also loved meeting HRH The Princess Royal who listened to all of our stories.

“The day was so much fun and the environment was really supportive and encouraging. The reception was really special and I'm sure all the Badgers and Cadets that attended would agree that it was a privilege to be invited.”

Kimberley Burns, Young People’s Development Officer at St John Ambulance Cymru attended the reception.

She said: “We are so proud of the St John Ambulance Cymru young people who attended the Young Achievers Reception. They represented our charity brilliantly.

“Our children and young people programmes are all about learning invaluable life skills, including lifesaving first aid, whilst making great memories and friendships.

“If you are a young person interested in healthcare or simply seeking a fun way to meet new people, then we urge you to reach out and get involved!”

To find out more about St John Ambulance Cymru’s programmes for children and young people, please visit www.sjacymru.org.uk/young-people.

The charity is also recruiting new leaders for their Badger and Cadet groups. If you are interested in volunteering with young people in your area, then please visit http://www.sjacymru.org.uk/volunteer to sign-up today.