St John People and supporters from all over Wales gathered in Britain’s smallest city recently for St John Ambulance Cymru’s Priory Visitation and Investiture service.

The service at St Davids Cathedral in Pembrokeshire on Saturday, October 19, acknowledged those who had selflessly given their time to support the first aid charity for Wales and their local communities.

The occasion included admissions into the Priory for Wales of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem, which are personally approved by HM the King, who is the Sovereign Head of the Order.

The service held particular significance as it saw James O’Connor OStJ, one of the charity’s Trustees, installed as the Bailiff of St Davids.

Mr O’Connor was also part of the Côr Meibion Morlais male voice choir which performed at the service.

The Prior for Wales, Paul Griffiths OBE KStJ DL, admitted two Members into the Order. Clare Buckley, who is Divisional Officer in Charge of Deeside Division, was recognised for her hard work which included giving 1,700 hours of time performing duties for the charity in 2023.

Gillian Knight, who is the Welsh Government’s Acting Chief Nursing Officer, was also admitted as a Member of the Order. Gillian has been a Trustee of the charity since 2023 and has brought a wealth of expertise in nursing and healthcare policy to the St John committees she supports.

Seven St John Ambulance Cymru volunteers were presented awards for long service totalling over 150 years.

Receiving an award for 20 years’ service was Lynda Cook (Operational Member of Haverfordwest Division).

Prior for Wales, Paul Griffiths OBE KStJ DL, said: “It was a pleasure to bring so many St John People together with supporters and dignitaries to celebrate these awards and appointments, which recognise the hard work and commitment that underpins the work of our charity.

“I would also like to thank the Port of Milford Haven for kindly sponsoring the event.”

Tom Sawyer, CEO of the Port of Milford Haven added: “This event is a reminder of what can be achieved when we collaborate and the real difference it makes to our communities.”

The service was followed by a special dedication of a new ambulance in the cathedral grounds, the vehicle having be purchased thanks to a huge fundraising effort with significant contributions from the Gosling Foundation, West Wales Masons, the Masonic Charitable Trust and many other generous supporters.