In 1955 the Milford Haven and District Soroptimist Club was formed, meeting alternately at Haverfordwest and Milford Haven. After seven years expansion was possible and so a separate club was formed in Haverfordwest
The New Club had its first meeting at the Cleddau Restaurant, Bridge Street, on 6 June 1962 and the founder President was Mrs Eileen Larner, proprietor of a local florist. There were 17 members including 4 Past Presidents, 3 past secretaries, 2 past treasurers and several Founder members of the Milford Club.
The new club Insignia was designed by Mr Peter Jones of Haverfordwest County Secondary School. The Charter Dinner was held at Tasker’s School 10 November 1962 and Federation President Miss Thyer Jones attended.
One of the Founder members, still very committed and active in club affairs, is Mrs Mair Michael, who was also the first Club secretary. Seven of our current members have exceeded 30 years in membership and service. Club membership has always been loyal and strong, inspired by friendship, fun and worthwhile programmes. We continue to recruit ladies from Haverfordwest and district and in the last few years have welcomed ten new members.
During 50 years the Haverfordwest Club has maintained its important standing and profile in the local community. The nature of fundraising activities has changed over the years (dances, balls, variety concerts, jumble sales, sponsored activities, coffee mornings, to mention just a few), and the club raised money to provide several important pieces of equipment in the local hospital, and other local causes, as well as international charities.
We have worked closely with the other Pembrokeshire clubs, and were particularly proud to be the “mother” club of Fishguard in 1982. On a wider stage the club has provided a Federation President, two Regional Council Presidents, a Region Programme Action chairman, two Regional Council secretaries and a Benevolent Fund representative
A very successful Friendship Link was developed with Yonkers, USA as well as other clubs in Ireland, Africa and Japan. Many members have been able to attend national and international conferences, making lifelong friends and experiencing the worldwide achievements and benefits of Soroptimism.
Pat Barker