Kent's leading first aid provider, St John Ambulance, has just appointed a new county president.

Kathrin Smallwood, from Charing, has joined St John Ambulance Kent to take on the role that until recently had been carried out by Anna Godfrey-Faussett for the past nine years.

Although Mrs Smallwood has not previously been involved with St John Ambulance, she has always been actively involved with charity fund-raising efforts, including organising events in aid of the mental health charity Kent Minds.

She said: “I am delighted about my new role and I look forward to working with the St John members in a very proactive way. I want to bring my energy and enthusiasm to further develop the charity’s excellent reputation and take it into new areas.

“This is a great organisation which deserves significant recognition within the region.”

Anna Godfrey-Faussett, who approached Mrs Smallwood to take on the role, said: “I am really pleased to hand over to Kathrin. She is full of energy and enthusiasm and I know she will help drive St John further.

“I’ve had the most wonderful nine years possible. I am very sad to leave but I know that I could not be leaving it in more capable hands.”

St John Ambulance in Kent has more than 30 operational units, nine training centres and 1,300 volunteers. It provides first aid cover at sporting and community events across the county and delivers a variety of health and safety and first aid courses to the public and many companies of all sizes.

For more information about St John Ambulance Kent and its membership opportunities, call 01732 874446.