Wigan Teenager Triumphs as St John Ambulance Regional Cadet of the Year
A teenage volunteer from Wigan has achieved a prestigious honour, being named St John Ambulance's Regional Cadet of the Year for the North West. This recognition follows a rigorous national competition that rigorously tested her exceptional first aid knowledge, leadership capabilities, and communication skills.
National Competition Celebrates 40th Anniversary
Seventeen-year-old Gracie Barton was selected to represent the North West region after emerging victorious from over 35 of St John Ambulance's most outstanding cadets nationwide. All participants had previously won county competitions to secure their spots at the national final. The competition, which marks its 40th anniversary this year, was held from February 27 to March 1 at Ingestre Hall near Stafford. It brought together young volunteers for a weekend of challenging assessments designed to evaluate their first aid proficiency, leadership qualities, and dedication to volunteering.
During the event, cadets engaged in a series of exercises including first aid scenarios, teamwork and problem-solving tasks, presentations, interviews, and group discussions. These activities were assessed by an experienced panel of judges, with many challenges based on real-life situations that cadets might encounter while volunteering in their communities.
Gracie Barton's Background and Achievements
Gracie is currently pursuing her T-Level Health qualification at Wigan and Leigh College and volunteers at the Wigan Cadet unit. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends, singing, and walking. Her accomplishments extend beyond this award; she has won an arts award from Trinity College London, served as a senior prefect in Year 11, and received an award for outstanding effort in the community from her school.
Reflecting on her achievement, Gracie said: "I feel so honoured and grateful that I am able to say that I am the North West Regional Cadet of the Year for 2026. The weekend of the competition was the best weekend, and I don't think many will top that. I met so many amazing new people who I can now call friends for life. I couldn't have done any of this without the support from my friends and family - thank you to all of you. I can't wait to see what I get up to alongside the rest of the NCOTY team this year!"
Real-Life Application of First Aid Skills
Many competitors, including Gracie, have already applied their first aid training in real emergencies, assisting with conditions such as cardiac arrest, seizures, fractures, heat-related problems, major bleeds, and severe asthma attacks. Gracie demonstrated her skills during a football match when her brother fell heavily and injured his collarbone. She quickly assessed the situation, used a triangular bandage to create a sling from a first aid kit, and advised seeking medical help. An X-ray later confirmed a broken collarbone, with the doctor praising her effective sling application.
Leadership Praise from St John Ambulance Officials
Rear Admiral Simon Williams CB CVO KStJ, Prior of the Priory of England and the Islands of the Order of St John, commented: "I am immensely proud of every cadet who took part in this year’s National Cadet of the Year competition. As we mark the 40th anniversary of this award, it is inspiring to see such high levels of skill, confidence and compassion among our young volunteers."
Shona Dunn CB, Chief Executive of St John Ambulance, added: "The cadets demonstrated not only outstanding first aid ability, but also leadership, teamwork and a genuine commitment to helping others. They represent the very best of St John Ambulance, and I have no doubt they will continue to make a real difference in their communities and beyond."
As Regional Cadet of the Year, Gracie will serve as an ambassador for St John Ambulance over the coming year, supported by a team of eight regional cadets. Her role will include representing young volunteers at events and royal engagements, promoting youth involvement across the organisation, and advocating for the importance of first aid and volunteering in communities nationwide.
