The Diana Award was set up in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, and her belief that young people have the power to change the world for the better. It is committed to fostering, inspiring and developing positive change in the lives of young people through practical social action. Today The Diana Award has the support of both her sons The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry.
Andrew, who has autism, has been named as one of 750 outstanding young people across the world who, through their actions, were judged to embody Princess Diana’s qualities of kindness, compassion and service.
To date Andrew has raised over £2,000 for us by attempting to visit every fire station in the UK.
Kirstine Impey, Andrew’s mum, said of his journey; “Andrew’s fire station visits have made a massive difference to Andrew, especially with his social skills and community spirit. This award is recognition of what I’ve got to see first hand; that Andrew has made a real difference to the fire service community across the country, as well as to himself.”
Dr Jill Tolfrey, Chief Executive of The Fire Fighters Charity, added; “We’re incredibly proud of all that Andrew has done for us throughout his incredible challenge. He is an inspirational young man, with a fantastically supportive family, who has captured the hearts of those he has met at every station and headquarters he has visited. Andrew’s enthusiasm has never wavered and I doubt there is anyone else in the country who can lay claim to having visited as many fire stations, met as many firefighters or ridden on as many fire appliances. He has helped to raise the profile of The Fire Fighters Charity along the way – generating press interest and becoming a social media phenomenon amongst the fire community – and he has raised vital funds for us that will help us to support firefighters in need across the UK. We are delighted that Andrew’s passion and dedication has been recognised with this fantastic and well-deserved award. Well done Andrew.”