Volunteers from Powys were among those recognised at the St John Ambulance Cymru Mid and West Wales Regional Awards, held recently in Swansea, for their dedication to supporting the charity’s lifesaving work.

Julie Carrod, Deputy Commissioner for Powys, received a Lifetime Achievement Award for nearly 30 years of service in roles including first responder and County Training Manager. She has played a key role in training and leading volunteers across the county.

Samantha Benson and Huw Howells, both from Brecon Division, received Commendation Certificates, while Eleri Sargeant, Divisional Manager of Llanidloes Division, won the Inclusion Award.

Nicola Thomas-Botwood, Divisional Manager for Rhayader, was presented with the Community of Lifesavers Award. Sean Gundy, Divisional Manager for Knighton Division, received a commendation from the Assistant Chief Commissioner for Mid and West Wales.

Ms Benson from the Brecon Division also received a 20-year second silver bar, marking two decades of dedication.

Further afield, Eunice O’Hara of Fishguard and Haverfordwest was awarded an Ultra Long Service Medal with two Gilt Bars for 60 years of service, having also become an Officer of the Order of St John and a member of the Gorsedd of the Bards as Eunice Urdd Sant Ioan (Eunice of St John).

St John Ambulance Cymru’s Assistant Chief Commissioner (Mid and West Wales), Beth Francis OStJ said: “This ceremony gave us a valuable opportunity to come together to celebrate the great work of St John People from across our Mid and West Wales counties of Dyfed, West Glamorgan and Powys and all they have contributed to their communities.

“The number and quality of the nominations we received was a reminder of the positive impact the charity has on a daily basis, and I know the panel had a difficult task in choosing the winners from the strong list of contenders.”