A SPECIAL plaque has been presented to a Newport town councillor in recognition of her dedication to the community.

Councillor Elaine Lloyd was surprised with a certificate in honour of her hard work while chairman of the council on June 29.

Pembrokeshire County Council chairman Wynne Evans joined town councillors and Newport Mayor and Mayoress at the town’s street market to make the presentation.

Cllr Evans said: “It’s a great pleasure to be in Newport, what a wonderful community. They often say that Tenby is the jewel of the county, but they’re wrong - it’s Newport.

“Former town council chairman Elaine Lloyd is so passionate about Newport and committed to the community that I would like to present her with this award, which has not been presented by County Hall in seven years.”

Cllr Lloyd said she was ‘stunned’ to receive the award.

She said: “I was not expecting this. I have only done what the other chairs have done. Everyone on the council works together, it’s a team and would not work so well without everyone on it.”

She added: “I am really very honoured.”

Current chairman Mike Sajko paid tribute to his colleague’s work in the community.

He said: “She has been fully committed to her work within the community, especially with the older members and the senior citizens group. She has shown passion and concern for the town.”