A MEMBER of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority was presented with a specially-commissioned plaque last month in recognition of 30 years continual service.
Clr. John Thomas, who represents the ward of Maenclochog, joined what was then the National Park Committee in July 1973, and now serves as the authority's most senior representative.
Since joining the National Park Committee, Clr. Thomas has served as chairman and vice-chairman of Dyfed County Council, and was the first chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council upon its reformation in 1996. He has also served as chairman of the National Park Committee.
At the presentation, vice-chairman of the National Park Authority, Clr. Simon Hancock praised Cllr Thomas's long-service.
"The award - which is only presented in exceptional circumstances - pays tribute to the calm and disarming way in which Clr. Thomas has conducted himself as a National Park member during the last 30 years of unbroken service," he said.
"As well as marking his commitment to Pembrokeshire, and the communities he has represented over the years, his time as chairman also highlights the respect afforded to him by fellow members, and a recognition of his seniority."
In receiving the plaque, Clr. Thomas commented: "I am pleased and honoured to have been representing the Park over the years, and have always enjoyed my time as an authority member. It's like being part of a family, it really is a friendly committee."
The plaque - which is engraved with the Park Authority's razorbill logo - was produced by Richard and Fran Boultbee, of The Slate Workshop at Llangolman, near Clunderwen.