Tenby and Saundersfoot Lions Club recently celebrated their 32nd charter anniversary and handover dinner at the Giltar Hotel.

Outgoing president Lion Peter Wilton welcomed guests in the following manner: "A warm welcome to you all whether you have travelled from far or near, we are all gathered to celebrate another year's work of service to our community and humanity. We are very grateful for your presence here today and your support to the Tenby and Saundersfoot Lions who will always endeavour to serve."

The grace was carried out by Lion Patrick Crockford, the toast by Lion John Griffiths, the loyal toast by Lion Alan Hicks, the Lions Club International toast by President Lion Peter Wilton, the response by vice-district governor Lion Martin Ruddle and the ladies and the guests toast by Lion Dave Griffiths.

The Mayor of Tenby, Clr. Mrs. Sue Lane responded by thanking all Lions for their tremendous work in the community.

The greatest award to be presented during the evening was the Melvin Jones Fellow plaque for dedicated human services to Lion Pat Crockford.

Pat was president of Tenby and Saundersfoot Lions Club during the years 1984-85, 2003-04 and joint president during 2006-07.

He has played a distinctive and important role at all levels in the club and continues to do so as treasurer this year.

Lions Club International was founded in the United States by Melvin Jones, a Chicago businessman.

Jones asked with regard to his colleagues, "What if these men who are successful because of their drive, intelligence and ambition were to put their talents to work to improving their communities?" Jones's personal code, "You can't get very far until you start doing something for somebody else" epitomises Pat Crockford.

The Melvin Jones' Fellowship Award recognises outstanding individuals by bestowing on them an award that is named after its founder.

The Fellowship Award (LCIF) is the highest form of recognition and embodies humanitarian ideas consistent with the nature and purpose of Lionism.

Pat, the recipient of this award becomes a model of the exemplary service of Tenby and Saundersfoot Lions Club and the communities for which it serves.

The club is proud to now have two members who hold this award, the other being Lion Miguel Gonzalez.

Thanks go to all the staff and owners of the Giltar Hotel for a marvellous evening.

The next big events organised by the Lions will be the annual paella festival at Tenby Harbour on Sunday, August 2, and the horse ride at Lydstep on Saturday, September 19. See you there!