A volunteer has been knighted by the Order of St John for his exceptional work.

Tony Curd, a long-standing St John Ambulance volunteer, was honoured for his tireless dedication to the organisation which traces its roots back 900 years.

The Lowestoft resident was elevated to the status of Knight of the Order during a ceremony in central London.

Mr Curd, aged 64, has been with the organisation since joining as a cadet in 1972.

Tony Curd from Lowestoft was promoted within the Order of St John to a Knight of the Order at a prestigious ceremony in central London Tony Curd from Lowestoft was promoted within the Order of St John to a Knight of the Order at a prestigious ceremony in central London (Image: Submitted)

He has taken on several significant roles including county commissioner and district manager.

Presently, he operates as the county president for Suffolk, a role he describes as being an ambassador and advocate for the work of St John Ambulance volunteers.

The promotion to Knight of the Order of St John acknowledges his extraordinary efforts towards the key ideals of the charity.

The formal recognition took place at the order’s historic 12th-century Priory Church in Clerkenwell, London.

On his elevation, Mr Curd said: “I feel honoured to have been recognised in this way.

"I could not have achieved this honour without the support of my family and the many St John friends and colleagues who have served alongside me over the years.

"I would encourage everyone to learn basic first aid.”

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The honour also celebrates his lead role in coordinating medical cover at the Lowestoft Airshow from 1996 to 2012, as well as his involvement in first aid provision during Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997.

Stuart Shilson, Prior of the Priory, said: “Tony has been promoted within the Order of St John in recognition of his extraordinary service to our charity and dedication in furthering its life-saving mission.

"This award is greatly deserved and I congratulate Tony on this achievement.”

The Order of St John is a Royal Order of Chivalry and each honour is approved by the sovereign before being admitted.