Ōpōtiki plumber and long-distance runner James Crosswell has joined a small handful of Lions Club members to receive one of the greatest honours the club can bestow.

Named after the Lions Clubs International founder, Melvin Jones, the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award is the highest-level recognition from the Lions Clubs International Foundation and is given to members who have rendered outstanding community services and truly embraced the Lions motto “we serve”.

Mr Crosswell was taken by surprise when he was presented with the award by District Governor Lou Fielder on February 5, after the Lions Club meeting at the Opotiki Library.

“I’ve been a plumber for 58 years serving the Ōpōtiki and East Coast district and my Lions’ service of 41 years goes hand in hand with that and allows me to give back to the community that has supported my business and family for all these years.

“Winning this award is an absolute honour and I didn’t expect it; the real rewards though are the many projects the Lions Club has done over the years.”

A project close to his heart is the international youth camps run in collaboration with the Mitai whānau and Terere Marae.

“Young people come from all around the world for a unique New Zealand experience.

“Our club gave the students an insight into Māori culture such as preparing a hangi, experiencing kapa haka and spending the night camping on the beach.

“We couldn’t have done this without the help and support of the wonderful Mitai whānau; they really made it an unforgettable experience for these kids.

“I also enjoy our monthly markets held at Woodlands Hall, where we raise money for future community projects.

“Just recently we raised $3000 for defensive driving courses for year 12 college students.

“Also supporting community events such as the Coast Guard Show and Shine Swapmeet.”

Mr Crosswell feels the shield is not just an individual award but testimony to the many years of service to the community by all the club members.

He encourages everyone to give such service a go.

“I’d tell anyone thinking about volunteering to just come along to a Lions’ meeting.

“You don’t need a special skillset, just a bit of time and willingness to help your community.

“You can get in touch with me or any of your friends or whānau involved with Lions.

“Emergencies don’t just happen with pipes, sometimes the community needs a hand too.”