On Saturday, local resident Michelle Watkins was hoodwinked into visiting Tenby’s St. Catherine’s Island under the pretence of it being a photographic shoot for her son’s recent wedding.

On entering the fort, Michelle was astonished to be greeted and applauded by a very large group of family and friends, representatives from Tenby Civic Society, Plastic Free Tenby and island staff.

Opening the presentation, John Loring (caretaker/manager) of St. Catherine’s Island explained that the idea of the award arose from a post by Dave Bolton on Plastic Free Tenby’s social media.

The significant public support for that post demonstrated a need to acknowledge the work and dedication of the many members of the community that currently goes unrecognised.

After some investigation and discussion, it was the Tenby Civic Society who seized the opportunity to expand their remit to include recognising individual members of the community for their voluntary efforts in Tenby.

In Michelle’s case, the award has been made for ‘her continuing voluntary effort over a number of years to keep Tenby South Beach litter-free.’

Tudor Thomas, presenting the certificate, bouquet and small hamper on behalf of the Tenby Civic Society, stated: “For a number of years, the Civic Society has made awards for buildings which improve Tenby. But a town is much more than buildings. It is those people throughout Tenby who deserve our gratitude and thanks for their voluntary efforts for the town. We hope that this, first of a kind award, will be one of many as we look for further nominations and proposals.”

Tudor Thomas completed the presentation which was followed by teas, coffees and a small selection of cakes within the fort.

Michelle took the opportunity to thank everybody involved for their kindness and stated: “My love of walking the dogs and collecting litter along the beach each day was my way of relaxing and enjoying the beauty of South Beach. I had no idea of what awaited me on St. Catherine’s Island and I have been overwhelmed by everybody’s kindness - thank you.”

John Loring stated: “Events such as these are never very easy to organise given a tidal island and the secrecy. However, the job was made far easier with the support of Michelle’s family and friends, the Tenby Civic Society and Plastic Free Tenby. Our thanks go to everyone involved and especially Jack, Lisa, Tudor, Dave and Lorraine Bolton, all of whom went the extra mile to make the event a complete success.”