Lynn Horrocks is talking about the youth members of her organisation – members of the St John Ambulance cadets who are aged ten to 18, and badgers aged five to ten – young people who throw themselves into the responsibility of being first aiders.

It's a little known fact that St John Ambulance is the third biggest youth organisation in the country and in Northumbria the success of St John first aid courses in schools and other youth groups has seen the number of young members soar.

Now the organisation is keen to recruit new adult members with a view to training them as leaders for the youth section – a job that Lynn describes as extremely rewarding.

"Our cadets and badgers are so amazing and working with them is an incredibly rewarding experience.

"The enthusiasm they display and the commitment they show is fantastic.

"Any adult getting involved and seeing these youngsters grow from children into adult members of St John Ambulance couldn't fail to be moved by the experience. It is a great thing to be involved with.

"Part of the success of the youth wing of St John Ambulance is the responsibility we encourage among young people.

"They assist at first aid duties alongside the adults and are taught the same life-saving skills.

"We have so many youngsters keen to join St John – the numbers are rising all the time.

"We just need the adults now to keep the units running and allow the numbers to expand!"

When asked what sort of person would make an ideal youth leader, Lynn Horrocks was quick to point out there is no one "type" of person.

She said: "Young adults make good youth leaders because they are energetic, active, young themselves and in tune with that generation.

"But older people make fantastic youth leaders too.

"They are wise, experienced, worldly, patient, calm and often have a bit more time on their hands.

"We realise that not everyone can offer the same level of commitment – some might be free most evenings, others just one evening every fortnight. That doesn't matter – any involvement is most welcome."

Anybody keen on finding out more about working with the youth section at St John Ambulance Northumbria should contact Anne Purdy the assistant commissioner personnel on (0191) 273 7938.