A St John Ambulance volunteer from Wirral was among more than 100 praised for their achievements during a reception at Buckingham Palace. 

Rachael Hughes was among more than 100 young people were invited for the reception, which acknowledged their hard work and commitment to the charity.

Hosted by Princess Anne, the organisation's patron, the event honoured those volunteers who have made outstanding contributions.

Each young person was given the honour of meeting The Princess Royal – who has the official title of Commandant in Chief, Youth for St John Ambulance - and had the opportunity to discuss their experiences as a volunteer during the reception.

Rachael, 21, has been trained by St John Ambulance in first aid skills which enabled her to help her cousin when she found her unconscious.

Rachael said: "I would recommend joining St John Ambulance to anyone, it has taught me to work as part of a team and has given me the confidence to help in an emergency situation.

"I'm so happy to have been invited to the Young Achievers' Reception.

"I love being part of St John Ambulance anyhow but meeting Her Royal Highness is something I’ll never forget."

The organisation aims to provide a fun and safe environment to learn essential first aid.

The Young Achievers’ Reception offers St John Ambulance the opportunity to reward the excellent work of their younger volunteers.

Graham Ellis, regional manager youth at St John Ambulance in the North West said: "Rachael has been an asset to her local community all year round and fully deserved to be rewarded with an invitation to the reception."