At the Rotary Club of Ely s Christmas lunch, members and their wives were joined by members of the Inner Wheel of Ely and friends, and entertained afterwards by songs from Charles Schneider, accompanied by Constance and Peter Heald. The highlight of the

At the Rotary Club of Ely's Christmas lunch, members and their wives were joined by members of the Inner Wheel of Ely and friends, and entertained afterwards by songs from Charles Schneider, accompanied by Constance and Peter Heald.

The highlight of the day, however, was when John Grant, an honorary member of the club for more than 12 years, was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of his contribution to the community, reflecting the Rotary motto 'service above self'.

Wing Commander John Grant MBE retired to Ely more than 30 years ago after his final posting to the RAF hospital in the city, although he and his wife Nan had lived in Ely after his wartime service in India.

For many years, he played a major role in the RAF Association and the British Legion, leading the Armistice Day parade until two years ago. He was a prominent member of the Ely Horticultural Society and used his gardening skills to grow all the plants from seeds for the War Memorial on the Market Square, as well as tending it on a daily basis in the summer. He was also responsible for the Memorial Garden at the Princess of Wales Hospital.

John Grant was awarded the Freedom of the City of Ely a year ago for his contribution, and is the only person to have received this. Now he has been similarly recognised by Rotary International.

INFO: www.elyrotary.co.uk.