Big award for past president

FORMER Cowdenbeath Rotary Club president, John Gilfillan, has received the rotary movement’s biggest honour, the Paul Harris Fellowship.

John, who runs a highly successful undertakers’ business in Lochgelly and Cardenden, was presented with the award at Thursday’s club meeting by area assistant governor, Libby Seath.

 She said: “John has been a Rotarian for 10 years now and has been involved in several very important projects run by the Cowdenbeath club which has made a real difference to people at home and abroad.

“One of the biggest was the initiative to support street football teams in Mombasa, Kenya, which saw the collection of a great many football kits from local senior clubs which were taken abroad by a group led by John which saw several coaches also go to give the young footballers key tips.

 “Also John was president during Cowdenbeath Rotary Club’s centenary year, and working alongside the members helped make it a real year to remember.

“His tremendous enthusiasm helped him lead the way for the club during its 100th year and the members responded by working really hard to make it a success.”

John said: “I really am overwhelmed to receive this award.

 “I am honoured and privileged to receive this.

 "I have been lucky over the years to receive awards in different fields but I have to say that this is certainly the best one and I am really honoured.”