The Order of St John, in partnership with NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), held its Organ Donor Awards presentation at Lewes Town Hall on 16 July 2026.
Presentation badges were awarded to 23 families in recognition of the lifeβchanging and lifeβsaving contributions made by their loved ones through organ donation. The awards were presented by the High Sheriffs of Sussex, Michael Bedingfield, High Sheriff of East Sussex, and Gary Shipton, High Sheriff of West Sussex.
The Mayor of Lewes, Adrian Ross, attended the ceremony, joining representatives from St John Ambulance and NHS Blood and Transplant in honouring the donors and their families.
The Order of St John Award for Organ Donation is a national honour presented jointly by the Order of St John and NHS Blood and Transplant. The award recognises the extraordinary generosity of organ and tissue donors, acknowledging the lives they save and transform. Each year, thousands of families across the UK receive the award on behalf of their loved one, reflecting the profound impact of donation.
Alex Ingham Clark, County President for St John Ambulance Sussex, said
The Annual Organ Donor Awards Ceremony celebrates those who made the unselfish decision to donate and thereby save lives should the worst happen to them. Β The ceremony is always an inspirational and moving experience honouring the very best of us who have made a life changing contribution to others
In 2022/23, more than 4,500 organ transplants were made possible thanks to donors, offering lifeβchanging outcomes for patients nationwide. The presentation provides families with a moment of formal recognition, honouring the legacy and compassion of those who chose to give the gift of life.
If you would like to find out more about the work of St John Ambulance, or get involved in our activities throughout Sussex, please visit our website.
