Long-serving Balclutha Red Cross members Jean Begg (left) and Ivy Grant (right) were presented with honorary life memberships by Red Cross national president Penny Mason in Balclutha yesterday. Photo by Glenn Conway.
National Red Cross president Penny Mason attended an extraordinary meeting but Jean Begg and Ivy Grant had no idea the main item on the agenda was to present them with their awards, recognising combined service of more than 50 years to the organisation.
Both women have worked in the organisation's shop for more than 20 years and helped in many other ways, Mrs Mason said.
Both women were clearly astounded as they realised they were there for the awards.
Mrs Mason said a life membership had to be approved by the Red Cross national board and was a very high honour.
