A St John Ambulance cadet has been awarded the Lingfield Medal at a House of Lords event.

Ione Dickson, 18, from St Albans, was one of 12 finalists in the annual Cadet Vocational College Westminster Award competition.

She was presented with the medal by Lord Lingfield, chairman of the Cadet Vocational College, at an awards lunch on the House of Lords' private terrace.

Ione beat thousands of eligible cadets to become a Westminster Award finalist.

She was recognised for her commitment and empathy in her various volunteer roles, including her work at the Keech Hospice Care charity shop in St Albans as part of her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

She continues to volunteer weekly, supporting the hospice, which offers care for seriously ill children.

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Ione has also been involved in Junior Church, supporting younger children and providing companionship and music during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Chief executive of Cadet Vocational College, Guy Horridge OBE, said: "Ione’s ongoing dedication to volunteering, from her charity shop work to her musical outreach during the COVID-19 lockdown, exemplifies her commitment to community service and personal growth.

"Her roles in supporting a hospice, younger children in Junior Church, and providing companionship through her telephone concerts reflect her strong sense of community and compassion."