JERSEY’S St John Ambulance Cadet of the Year represented the Island in a national competition last month.

Although she didn’t win the event, 16-year-old Chantal Lerusse was praised for her dedication and enthusiasm by the organisation’s chief youth commissioner.

Chantal and 37 other cadets from all over the UK took part in the National Cadet of the Year competition in Nottingham and were assessed on a variety of skills, including teamwork, initiative under pressure, organisation and leadership.

The winner was 16-year-old Sam Lawday from Dorset, but chief youth commissioner Sarah Holmes said that even taking part in the competition, which was held on 24 and 25 January, was a great honour for Chantal.

‘It is a great achievement to take part in this competition and Chantal demonstrated tremendous dedication and enthusiasm over the course of the competition. We are delighted that she is part of St John Ambulance,’ she said.

As County Cadet of the Year, Chantal will act as an ambassador for all Jersey cadets at a range of events, including charity balls, award ceremonies and competitions. She said that although last month’s competition was serious, she still enjoyed herself. ‘It was an excellent weekend,’ she said. ‘I made many friends and despite the seriousness of the event we still had time for some lighter moments.

‘St John Ambulance’s youth strategy has offered huge benefits to people like me. An ever-changing programme, achievement that is rewarded and the chance to give young people a voice is what we asked for and St John Ambulance has really listened.’

She added that during her reign as County Cadet of the Year she wanted to show that St John Ambulance is about more than just first aid. ‘We also have great fun, make friends, help people and learn new things from DIY to law and kayaking,’ she said.

• Picture: Chantal Lerusse showed great enthusiasm at the Nottingham event