THE Paul Harris Fellowship is Rotary's highest award and is given only to those Rotarians who have made outstanding contributions to the movement. That achievement was recognised recently by members of the Rotary Club of Narberth and Whitland when District Governor Donna Wallbank presented the award to Rotarian Robert Elward at the club's 45th charter anniversary dinner.

"The award is well earned," said DG Donna, "and is in acknowledgement of your outstanding contribution to Rotary."

Past president Rob is an electrical engineering consultant and lives at Laugharne with his wife Heulwen and daughter Cathryn. Currently chair of the club's youth opportunities committee, he is responsible for organising the competitions for Young Musician, Youth Speaks, Young Chef, Young Photographer, Rotary Youth Leadership Award and Young Writer.

In addition to this large portmanteau, he is the District organiser for the Group Study Exchange programme which involves choosing participants and a leader for the scheme throughout South Wales. This year's chosen team will visit the Philippines.

Rotarian Rob is a governor at several local schools and is currently chairman of the governors at Ysgol Dyffryn Taf.

Rob is an avid walker and in July will be taking part in a sponsored walk to raise funds for the Meningitis Trust. The challenge entails climbing Ben Nevis, Scaefell and Snowden within 36 hours.

The award was met with a spontaneous and unanimous standing ovation by those present for a popular, much admired and highly regarded Rotarian.