Cleator Moor cadet awarded rare Order of Mercy Foundation Medal for Distinguished Service

Tamara Telford, 18, from Cleator Moor, was one of only five people to receive the Order of Mercy Foundation Medal for Distinguished Service in recognition of her outstanding contribution to her local community.

“Tamara’s volunteering efforts within her local area are outstanding and promote the kindness and hard work our younger generation put into their communities," Cumbria Army Cadet Force’s Deputy Commandant Lt Col Rachel Diss said.

"We felt it was right that she be acknowledged for her integrity, courage and selfless commitment, integral to the values upheld within the Army Cadets.

"We are very proud and pleased that she has been recognised nationally for her efforts.”

On May 11, 2021 a local man severely injured himself with a razor blade in the street, leaving Tamara to put her army first aid training to excellent use and apply pressure on his wounds.

When an ambulance arrived, Tamara was asked to continue to apply direct pressure before the man was taken to hospital.

Tamara is also known in her community for her tireless work with the Exchange Corner community action group where she has brought different groups from the community together to help combat loneliness.

She is heavily involved with the local ‘Knit and Natter’ group which makes blankets for those in need, and she mentors local children, giving guidance and setting a positive example for everyone in the area.

“Her enthusiasm and respect, shown to the residents of this town has shown her to be a role model to other young people," Michelle Denwood of Cleator Caring Moor said.

"Tamara makes every effort to support the older and younger generations in her local community, highlighting their needs to the charity group and ensuring those needs are addressed by their work."

Tamara, her family and her Army Cadet volunteer, SI Stacey Kelly attended the prestigious presentation ceremony at The Mansion House in the City of London on Friday, July 29.