THE distinctive black and white uniforms of St John Ambulance volunteers were a sign that help, healing and comfort were at hand for anyone in need, the Dean of Canterbury Cathedral told a special congregation on Saturday.

He was speaking at a service of re-dedication of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem attended by the Priory of England and the Islands.

Every year, a county organisation of St John invites The Priory Chapter to make a visitation and in 2007 it was the turn of St John Kent to extend the hand of welcome.

It was the Priory's first visit since 1975 and the Nave was packed for the occasion with St John volunteers, from the cadet and badgers groups across Kent to those in highest office.

The Prior and Priory Chapter, Lord Lieutenant of Kent and the Lord and Lady Mayoress of Canterbury entered to a fanfare from the Regimental Band of the Coldstream Guards.

During the procession the County Colour of St John Ambulance, The Priory Cross and Sword and the Priory Banner were received at the Altar as signs of loyalty, honour and devotion.

In his sermon, the Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, the Very Rev Robert Willis, himself a sub Dean of the Order of St John, warmly welcomed the congregation.

He said: "Our Order is a global family and has been a sign for the giving of help for hundreds of years, transcending all human diversity."

The lessons were read by the Prior, Sir Brian Jenkins and the chiarman of the St John Council for Kent, the Marquess of Abergavenny.

After the service the Prior, Sir Brian Jenkins presented the warrant of appointment to the new Commander of St John Ambulance Kent, John Hougham, who lives in Gravesend.

The Prior then presented youth and long service awards.

Mr Hougham presented an Order of St John service medal to the President of the Kent Messenger Group, Edwin Boorman who is a past director and chairman of St John Kent and now chairs the finance committee of the Priory Chapter.