An inspiring young member of St John Ambulance has become a national figurehead, after becoming Deputy Cadet of the Year for Hertfordshire.

William Chambers, 16, from the Rickmansworth and Chorleywood division, will represent the service after beating stiff competition from across the county to land the role, showing the necessary leadership and commitment to the job.

Despite his age, the young corporal has already amassed six years of first aid experience, and in doing so won the respect of his entire division.

Donna Elliott, from the Rickmansworth branch, said: “William is recognised by his peers as a talented born leader.”

William will now use his influential personality to train St John Ambulance cadets across the county at a variety of sporting, music and theatre events.

But he will also ensure that his own division will also benefit from his success, organising weekly meetings, training activities, games and social events.

He will be hoping to emulate previous youth leaders who have gone on to serve the organisation as adults, attending high-profile national events like the London Marathon.

William will commence the role of Deputy Cadet of the Year for Hertfordshire in January, taking over from Elizabeth Kipps, aged 17, who is also from the division.

The youth section of the Rickmansworth and Chorleywood St John Ambulance division has been running since 1976, and children can start from the age of six.

For more information, telephone 01923 446556.