HRI teen volunteer Ben Mansfield yesterday won a special award from BBC Traitors star and NHS doctor, Dr Amos Ogunkoya.

Ben, 17,  who wants a career in medicine or chemistry, collected his award in Bristol yesterday at a ceremony recognising the achievements of hundreds of NHS Cadets across the country. CHFT runs a cadets scheme together with our partners at St John’s Ambulance.

Ben’s award recognises the many hours he has spent helping with the tea rounds, restocking medical supplies and spending time with patients to help keep them company.

He said: “All the staff and patients are lovely, and I have learned so much and gained some great skills that will really help for the future.

"I feel really honoured to be receiving this award".

He graduated from the NHS Cadets youth programme in December but has carried on volunteering when he’s been needed.

Our Head of Apprenticeships and Widening Participation Team, Liam Whitehead, said: “Ben is an outstanding young man who has really embraced this opportunity and we certainly look forward to continuing to support Ben, and other young people as we grow this partnership.

"We have worked in partnership with St John’s Cadets since January 2021 and have supported more than 100 local young people from across our local communities to access our Trust.”

Sathpal Panesar, St John Ambulance NHS Cadets Project Lead, said: “Ben always goes the extra mile, and I’m so glad his dedication and commitment to the patients of Huddersfield Royal Infirmary and the NHS Cadets programme can be recognised in this way.”

Dr Amos added: “It’s so heartening to see the perseverance and dedication from each of the NHS cadets.”