From emergency callouts on land to rescues at sea, two members of Guernsey’s Ambulance and Rescue Service have been recognised for decades of dedication.
The admissions to the Order of St John, approved by His Majesty The King, acknowledge the professional dedication and outstanding contribution by both Paramedic Jim Cathcart, and marine ambulance volunteer Andy Lowe, whose uncle built the previous Flying Christine.
What does the honour mean?
Those admitted to the Order have demonstrated outstanding service to St John.
That can be by achievement, notable or selfless service or inspiration, and encouragement to others.
There are five Grades of membership. In ascending order they are, Member, Officer, Commander, Knight or Dame, and Bailiff or Dame Grand Cross.
Jim Cathcart: “I was absolutely speechless”
Mr Cathcart, recently became a full-time paramedic, but has been co-ordinating the PR for the Ambulance and Rescue Service for a number of years. He was nominated for his work in promoting the organisation.
Jim Cathcart said: “When I received the letter I was absolutely speechless. I genuinely thought there had been a mix up. Once I realised it wasn’t a mistake, I felt very honoured to get this recognition.
“I understand one of the reasons I was nominated is for the work I have done raising awareness of the vital work of the ambulance service and the wider St John community in Guernsey, not just locally but among partner organisations further afield.
“I am incredibly proud to be one small part of an amazing team of people who take time to care and make a difference when it really matters.”
Mr Cathcart is well worthy of the honour, according to the outgoing Chief Ambulance Officer, Mark Mapp, who said: “I am immensely proud that Paramedic Jim Cathcart has been admitted as a Member of the Order of St John. Since joining St John Ambulance and Rescue Service in 2016 initially as a trainee retained EMT and Public Relations Officer, Jim has consistently gone above and beyond in his service to our community.
“Balancing his full-time role in the Ambulance and Rescue Service with leading our communications, he has used his broadcasting experience to raise the profile of St John locally and nationally, from high-impact public awareness campaigns on stroke and heart attack recognition and Restart a Heart Day, to clear and reassuring communication throughout the covid-19 pandemic.
“His admission as a Member of the Order is such an honour – particularly as this distinction is approved by His Majesty The King – and I am delighted that it has been bestowed upon Jim. It is a fitting recognition of his professionalism, dedication and outstanding contribution to St John and to the Bailiwick of Guernsey.”
Andy Lowe: “A most amazing and rewarding organisation”
Marine ambulance volunteer, Andy Lowe, was honoured for over 30 years of service as a coxswain for the Flying Christine vessels.
He reflected on his familial links that go back even further. MrLowe said: “My uncle built the previous Flying Christine – so it has been fantastic for our family to continue with the close bond for this incredible vessel.
“I have always been interested in the boat and it has been a real privilege to be involved with it.
“I am so very grateful to be able to play a small part in a most amazing and rewarding organisation.”
Of Mr Lowe’s contribution to the charity, Mark Mapp said: “I am delighted to pay tribute to Andy Lowe, whose outstanding voluntary service as coxswain of the St John Marine Ambulance has spanned more than three decades. As a highly experienced Master Mariner and Captain, Andy could have taken his skills anywhere in the world, yet he has chosen to dedicate them to the people of the Bailiwick of Guernsey.
“For over 30 years he has led volunteer crews on the Flying Christine II and Flying Christine III, answering calls day and night and often in challenging conditions, to ensure that lifesaving care reaches islanders whenever and wherever it is needed.”
Mr Mapp continued: “Andy’s calm leadership, professionalism and deep knowledge of the sea have been central to the success and safety of the Marine Ambulance Service. He has generously mentored and trained the next generation of coxswains and crew, sharing not only technical skills but also the ethos and values that underpin the Ambulance Service.
“Most recently, his key role in guiding major upgrades to the Marine Ambulance has helped to secure the vessel’s reliability for the future and maintain public confidence in this vital lifeline. His long and devoted volunteer service is an example to us all, and I am immensely proud to recognise the huge contribution he has made to Ambulance and Rescue and to our community of islands.”