Monday, April 23, saw the Rotary Club of Saundersfoot celebrate their 42nd Anniversary Charter Night at St. Brides Spa Hotel, Saundersfoot.

The photograph shows President Haydn Williams, together with Rotary District Governor Maggie Hughes and guest speaker Sharon Lusher, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed.

Following a hearty meal of roast beef, there were the usual after dinner speeches. Following the Loyal Toast by Haydn, DG Maggie Hughes congratulated the Rotary Club of Saundersfoot on their service to the local community across a wide range of activities, also quoting the recent Sunday Times article which referred to the club as ‘virtually hyperactive’. DG Maggie finished her speech by offering a toast to the members of the club.

DG Maggie then presented Paul Harris Fellowship awards to four of the diners; Paul Harris was the founder of Rotary over 100 years ago and the Fellowship award is ‘in appreciation of tangible and significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations among peoples of the world’.

A special highlight was the award to Joan Allen, wife of member and Past President Lionel Allen, for the support she has given the club over many years. Other recipients of the award were Mac Walapu, Rob Talboys and Neil Sefton, who, along with Joan, are all pictured with President Haydn and DG Maggie.

President Haydn responded, offering a toast to the guests, which included Presidents and representatives from neighbouring Rotary Clubs and Inner Wheel, supporters of the club from within the local business community and friends of club members.

Haydn then proceeded to introduce guest of honour Sharon Lusher, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed, and principal/chief executive of Pembrokeshire College. Sharon gave a fascinating and informative speech explaining that she is a native of Pembrokeshire, who left the county to work in various roles across the UK and Europe.

She chose to return home several years ago, initially taking on the role of vice-principal of Pembrokeshire College. Having risen to the position of principal and chief executive, Sharon has presided over tremendous growth at the college during a period of change within both education and the workplace.

Sharon spoke passionately about the college, explaining the many and varied ways in which it contributes to the county, offering learning opportunities to students aged between the age of 16 and 60-plus, and that the commercial training aspect of the college’s work made a significant contribution to the college finances.

She presented fascinating statistics, including the annual intake of around 1,700, the total number of students and that 5,000 of them are undergoing apprenticeships. Sharon also quoted many examples of star students who have won awards. She emphasised that all ages and backgrounds are welcomed and made a memorable reference to the fact that by simply observing a caterpillar you would never suspect it would develop into a butterfly.

It was an enjoyable evening for all members and guests, and thanks go to the staff of St. Brides Spa Hotel for the meal and service.

The annual Charter Night is the highlight of the Rotary Club year, but if you want to know more about Rotary activities in the Saundersfoot area visit the website, www.rotaryclubofsaundersfoot.org.uk, visit the Facebook page or telephone club secretary Charles Hopkinson on 01834 812793 or President Elect Neil Sefton on 01834 811752.