Borderland Rotary in Oswestry have announced that one hard working member of the club has been awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship Award.

Mr Justin Soper, a member of the club was the recipient of this prestigious accolade for his consistent significant contributions towards the club while reflecting the Rotary moto, "Service above self".

Mr Soper has made remarkable strides with the club’s environment, youth and rotakids groups and was instrumental in introducing the international project, Operation Pollination to the club.

This project is aimed at heightening awareness of the pivotal role bees and other pollinating insects play in our ecosystem.

Mr Soper, also contributed in setting up Rotakids Clubs at 10 schools in the area such as The Marches and Oswestry School.

Rotakids is a junior version of the Rotary Club, and it is introduces youngsters to community work and volunteering.

In reaction to this honour, Mr Soper said: "I was stunned when it was announced that I was to receive this award, but I am so proud that I’ve been able to serve the Rotary project in general and Borderland Rotary Club in particular.

"I must thank my wife Sherie – without her, none of this would have been possible."

Sherie Soper, Mr Soper's wife, was also honoured with this esteemed Paul Harris Fellowship some years prior.