A group of volunteers have been hailed as the best at a prestigious event.

An annual awards ceremony recently highlighted the success of St John Ambulance volunteers from across Suffolk – with the Lowestoft unit named as the best in the county.

The awards ceremony and service of thanksgiving was held at St Mary-le-Tower church in Ipswich, with St John Ambulance volunteers able to join together in celebrating their combined achievements over the previous year.

And for the first time the newly inaugurated James Brownfield Trophy, named after a long-serving volunteer who died last year, was presented to the volunteer unit deemed to be the best performing in Suffolk.

Criteria for the award included overall commitment to first aid duties, innovation and the willingness to go the extra mile to help other volunteers around Suffolk and in other counties.

There was joy for the Lowestoft unit, based on Oxford Road in the town, as they were crowned as the inaugural recipient of the 2017 trophy.

Many other awards were presented, including certificates of recognition for long service. In total, 26 volunteers were recognised for more than 520 years of combined service with the charity.

The awards were presented by HM Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, Clare, Countess of Euston, and Laura Wallace, chairman of the Suffolk County Priory Group of the Order of St John.

Tony Curd, St John Ambulance district manager in Suffolk, said: 'This was a wonderful event and we were all thrilled to celebrate the dedication of many volunteers who have worked with the charity, in many cases for more than 25 years.

'I'd like to congratulate all award recipients and also the Lowestoft unit on being awarded the James Brownfield Trophy.

'The volunteers there are a fine example of a group that works together effectively, always willing to help others and deliver life saving first aid not only in their home town but also working with other volunteer units in the East region,' Mr Curd added.

'The whole unit should be justifiably proud of its success.'

For more information about St John Ambulance or about first aid training, go to www.sja.org.uk or call 08700 104950.