Cadet aspiring to be paramedic is Sussex champion

Daisy Cole, 16, will now represent fellow Cadets from Sussex throughout this year at public and St John Ambulance events.

The Worthing High School pupil has not looked back since joining the cadets 18 months ago.

She said: “I had done lots of different activities in the past but I was looking for something different so that I could learn some new skills.

“I really want to be a paramedic so I knew a bit about the service but after doing some research I went along to one of the cadet sessions.

“When I think that my friends know absolutely nothing about first aid and that someone could collapse in front of them and they would have no idea what to do I realise how important the cadets are.

“I have also made so many friends there – we are all in a big group and everyone gets along so well.”

Daisy is currently studying medical science, health and social care and English, works part-time as a carer and has completed work experience at Worthing Hospital.

She has also inspired younger sister Tiffany, 15, to join the cadets.

“I just like the idea of saving lives,” Daisy said.

“I am working towards my Grand Prior Award – the highest qualification a St John Ambulance Cadet can receive.

“I’m really thrilled to have been judged District Cadet of the Year for 2014. It’s a great achievement for me and I was really surprised when I found out.”

Daisy will now compete for the title of overall South East Regional Cadet of the Year and National Cadet of the Year in April.

In the meantime, she will continue to attend cadet sessions every Tuesday evening and volunteer with the ambulance service.

She said: “It is all such great experience and although things can be scary at first, I am learning so much.”