A DEDICATED Sidmouth St John Ambulance Cadet has been awarded a prestigious accolade for his hard work and commitment. Douglas Parsons, 16, of Woolbrook, was presented the Grand Prior Award at the annual inspection held at St John Ambulance Hall last week

A DEDICATED Sidmouth St John Ambulance Cadet has been awarded a prestigious accolade for his hard work and commitment.

Douglas Parsons, 16, of Woolbrook, was presented the Grand Prior Award at the annual inspection held at St John Ambulance Hall last week.

A cadet must complete several subjects in stages from bronze to gold before they receive the Grand Prior Award-and this is the first time in more than 30 years a Sidmouth Cadet has achieved it.

Douglas, a Sidmouth College student, was given the award by Antoinette Williams OStJ, county staff officer for youth.

He said: "I was quite surprised when I got the award. I feel it is a real achievement."

Cadet Sergeant Douglas, who is currently taking his GCSEs, said the Grand Prior Award was "challenging" but would encourage any Cadet to work towards it.

He was also awarded the 1,000 Hours badge for reaching and exceeding 1,000 hours of public duty with the division.