Saundersfoot Rotarians are proudly celebrating their 50th anniversary this month.

This year, Saundersfoot Rotary Club marks 50 years of service to the local community and beyond, as since its formation in 1974, the club has played a key role in the life of the seaside village - championing local causes, supporting international development, and bringing people together through service, fundraising, friendship, and action.

Over five decades, Saundersfoot Rotary has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for local charities, helped deliver community projects, and supported generations of residents through youth programmes, healthcare funding, and aid to those in need.

From providing financial support to groups such as Saundersfoot Playgroup & Daycare, Tenderfoot Disabled Sports Club team, and the Carers Association, to helping improve public amenities, the club’s local impact has been deep and lasting.

Its calendar of events has become a central part of village life, with annual favourites such as the Duck Race, Harbour Hog Roasts, Sandcastle Competitions, and more recently, the Treasure Hunt, drawing in thousands over the years.

These events have not only raised vital funds for worthy causes, but fostered strong community spirit and lasting traditions.

Beyond its local focus, Saundersfoot Rotary has consistently reached outward to support global humanitarian causes. In partnership with Tools for Self-Reliance Cymru, the club has collected and sent refurbished tools and sewing machines to communities in Africa—empowering women and young people with practical skills and the means to earn a living.

The club has also supported Rotary International’s mission to eradicate polio, with local initiatives including the purple illumination of the Schooner, which sits on the Saundersfoot Harbour decking, and educational outreach involving local schoolchildren and global health leaders.

In recent years, the club has embraced growth and change. Membership has increased from 18 to over 30, with a stronger emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. Women now make up more than a third of the club’s membership.

New members bring wide-ranging experience—from public service and education to business and healthcare. The addition of the club’s first Corporate Member, a local independent financial advice firm, further strengthens ties with the business community.

Saundersfoot Rotary’s reach also extends through its Friends of Rotary—volunteers who help deliver events and initiatives. Together, they represent the club’s core values: service, collaboration, and a commitment to making a difference.

As the club celebrates its 50th anniversary, it looks ahead with fresh energy and ambition. With its base at Saundersfoot Sailing Club, it remains at the heart of village life.

Plans for the future include expanding its event programme, deepening partnerships with local groups, and continuing to support both local and global causes.

Sustained by tradition but energised by new ideas and people, Saundersfoot Rotary is as relevant today as it was at it’s inception.

As the club marks this milestone golden jubilee, it looks forward to working with residents, visitors, and new members to help shape the next half century and continue living up to its founding principles - service above self, community before all!