LAUNCESTON Lions and guests celebrated a milestone in Launceston Town Hall — the club's 40th birthday party.

Dancing to Edison Lighthouse, delicious food and a fabulous time was had by all who attended.

The pinnacle of the evening was a letter received by Lions member Christine Rowe from Buckingham Palace to congratulate Launceston Lions on 40 years' voluntary service in both fundraising and service activities.

This was followed by a presentation to town mayor David Gordon of a Melvin Jones Fellowship.

This award was presented by Lions Club president Helen Bailey on behalf of the club for his commitment to the community, his involvement in many projects to bring the town together to celebrate such as the annual firework display and town carnival, for his work as a trustee of Coronation Park and the many years he was involved organising Launceston Road Runners events.

Helen described him as a 'very committed Launceston man who has since found time to be a councillor and our mayor, who deserved the standing ovation he received on accepting the award'.

The fellowship award is the highest that can be presented by Lions Clubs' International Foundation to either a member of a Lions Club or in this case a dedicated member of the community.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.