A VOLUNTEER who spent 35 years giving up his free time for has been honoured.
Peter Fussey, who joined the Ruislip and Northwood Division of St John Ambulance in 1976, was promoted to Officer Brother of the Most Venerable Order of St John of Jerusalem at a special ceremony.
Because of illness, Mr Fussey received his insignia at his bedside in Michael Sobell House, Northwood, on February 6.
His daughter Sharon Jakulis said: "It was very special for him, and it really seemed to perk him up. It was a proud moment for all his family.
"I don't remember a time when he wasn't involved with St John Ambulance. He was always out on duties and he really enjoyed it. He got to know everybody in the local area and was often called on in emergencies."
Mr Fussey spent many hours on public duties and was a member of the ambulance crew, rising to the
rank of staff sergeant. He later took on leadership of the cadet section and for the past 10 years he has been deputy of the division.
The 73-year-old lived in Victoria Road, South Ruislip, for more than 40 years before he moved to Michael Sobell House.
Paul Herbage, St John's deputy commissioner of London, presented Mr Fussey with his insignia and said: "As a fellow Ruislip resident, I was particularly honoured to be able to make this presentation to Peter.
"In his 35 years as a volunteer, he
has become a well-respected and well-loved member of St John Ambulance and he truly deserves this promotion to Officer Brother."
The Order of St John is a Royal Order of Chivalry and each recipient is approved the Queen, its Sovereign Head.
