A FORMER Christchurch Rotary president has received an award for his contribution to the local community.

Dr James Morton, who has been Rotarian since 1982, becoming president in 1994, was given the Sapphire Pin to the Paul Harris Fellowship by current president Tim Skinner, at the group's April meeting.

The fellowship is awarded to members who have made exceptional contributions to the organisation and the community. The Sapphire Pin, which is essentially a second Paul Harris Fellowship, is given only to those who have made a sustained and exceptional contribution to the Rotary movement over many years.

Dr Morton has organised fundraising events and provided advice on Rotary matters, as well as taking a special interest in the charitable work of the Rotary Foundation, and is involved in many other community organisations.

Presenting the honour, Christchurch Rotary president Tim Skinner said: "This is a special award, very rarely made in the history of the Christchurch Club; tonight, with warm congratulations, this goes to James for his exceptional contribution to the community in general, and especially to the Rotary organisation.

"He has spent over 35 years in the Rotary movement, including a total of 11 years in the key role of Club Secretary. He was for many years Chief Scout for Dorset, and serves as a Churchwarden at Priory Church.”