A PEMBROKE teenager and St John Cymru-Wales cadet, who spends hundreds of hours a year volunteering and fundraising has been honoured with a top award.

16-Year-old Charlie Marsh, A Pembrokeshire College a-level student was recently awarded the Diana award at Cardiff City Hall for over 800 hours of community service which ranges from first aid at events to fundraising within his community.

The Diana award, in the name of Diana, Princess of Wales recognises courageous, caring and compassionate young people who deserve recognition in Wales.

Charlie has had a very successful year, being awarded Deputy Cadet of the Year for St John Cymru Wales for 2017, his work has not stopped in Pembrokeshire, in previous years he has represented Wales in Hong Kong for first aid competitions and early next year will have the opportunity to fly to India to teach others his skills.

Charlie, a member of Tenby-Pembroke division, said: "I remember my first duty when I treated a patient for an ankle sprain. This was the moment when I realised I wanted to go into the healthcare profession. The feeling of satisfaction that I managed to make a difference in that person’s day was something that I will never forget.

"The skills that I have gained through volunteering with St John Cymru-Wales will no doubt benefit me when I apply to university to study a degree in Paramedic Science. I aspire of one day becoming an Advanced Paramedic."

Charlie’s experiences with St John Cymru-Wales this year are not over yet, as, at a Young Achievers Reception being held at St James' Palace, Charlie is due to meet Princess Ann with other young volunteers of the organisation.

St John Cymru-wales is Wales’ leading first aid charity and next year celebrates it 100 year anniversary. If you would like to read more or are interested in joining then visit stjohnwales.org.uk