The speaker for our May meeting was Eleanor Wright from St John Ambulance.
Eleanor has led a very interesting life with the St John Ambulance service. I was particularly interested in her talk, about the historical aspect of the military Order of St John of Jerusalem. It was founded in the 11th century as a religious order by the first Knights of St John, caring for sick pilgrims with headquarters in Rhodes and Malta.
His Majesty King Charles holds the position of Sovereign Head. The Grand Prior, who is the second in command, is Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester.
I looked up details of the St John Museum in Clerkenwell in London, which seems well worth a visit.
Eleanor gave us a lot of information and background about her life, from when she joined as a 17 year old cadet in Ireland in September 1962 to the present day. Three generations of her family, her mother and 2 sons, were also involved in St John Ambulance which is quite an achievement! The photo shows the four of them in uniform.
Eleanor must be very proud of her three medals. One of which is a British Empire medal for voluntary service to St John Ambulance, a 50 year gold service medal and two 5 year bars, and a medal with the eight-pointed Maltese cross of the CStJ (Commander in the Order of St John).
Her gentle Irish accent was lovely to hear.
Christine Miller, Club Correspondent , IW Hazel Grove
