A cheque presentation turned into something altogether more special for Helston’s Methodist minister when he was surprised with an award that left him “lost for words”.

When Rev Danny Reed went to pick up a £300 cheque from Helston-Lizard Rotary Club he had no idea he was about to become the club’s first ever community recipient of the Paul Harris Fellowship award.

Recognising exceptional service, it is an award available to clubs across Rotary International, and is normally presented to Rotarians, although in exceptional circumstances it can also be given to a non-Rotarian.

In this case the club felt Rev Danny fitted all the criteria, saying: “We made the decision to give the award to Danny in recognition of his selfless and unstinting service to our town, and in particular his support of the homeless and those in need in Helston.”

The award was presented by recently retired president Chris Butterill, who finished him term of office at the start of the month, handing over to Pete Mueller.

Chris first presented Rev Danny with a cheque from the club to fund a tumble drier for the Central Methodist Church Helston, to use in in its work helping homeless people in the town.

Also receiving a donation was bell captain off St Michael’s Church, Bob Woods, in support of the replacement bell ropes appeal.

Chris then announced that a special award was being presented that evening, and went on to award the Paul Harris Fellowship, explaining that to give the award to a non-Rotarian was a special event indeed.

Rev Danny told the Packet: “When I attended the Rotary dinner to pick up a very generous £300 cheque from president Mr Chris Butterill I did not have the slightest notion that I would have another award during the evening.

“Again, president Chris Butterill began explaining the Paul Harris Fellowship – an award for excellence in working for and in the community, striving to make the world a better place. “Chris explained the honour of these awards and that more often than not they are awarded to Rotarians before adding ‘However, tonight, for the first time in our club’s history the Paul Harris Fellowship is awarded to Rev Danny Reed’.

“I have rarely, if ever, been lost for words and am so humbled by this presentation.

“I thank the Rotary club for all the wonderful work it does and especially at this time for the donation towards a new commercial tumble dryer for our community clients and for the fellowship award. I am deeply humbled.”