An "inspiring" first-aider, who has volunteered to help those in need for more than 60 years, has been made an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honour List.  

Divisional Superintendent Enid Patient, of St John Ambulance's Walthamstow Nursing Cadets, joined the East Evenue cadets in 1948 and continues to serve with the unit.

Mrs Patient of St Barnabas Road in Woodford Green teaches youngsters across the borough life-saving skills and many of the cabets have progressed to become today's leading doctors, nurses and paramedics. 

During her career, she has been on first aid duty at various high-profile events, including London Marathons, the Queen's Coronation in 1952 and Sir Winston Churchill's funeral in 1965. 

Speaking following the announcement on Friday, she said: "‘I'm delighted and honoured to receive the MBE which is beyond anything I could ever have imagined.

"I’m accepting it on behalf of all those who have supported me over the years, especially my family and cadets past and present who have made the whole experience so thoroughly enjoyable.

"To teach little children and watch them flourish and grow in confidence as they learn new skills is an absolute pleasure.

"And no skill gives them greater confidence than learning how to save someone’s life."

St John Ambulance regional director Len Bamber praised Mrs Patient for her unceasing devotion and dedication.

He said: "Enid is the very epitome of all that’s best about St John Ambulance. 

"She’s a volunteer of the best possible calibre, held in the highest esteem by all who know her.

"She has inspired many thousands of young people with her selfless devotion and unstinting commitment to their welfare.

"The result is a current and future generation of life savers dedicated to serving their local community."