LISKEARD did honour to one of its elders, John Lewis Rapson, Bard of the Gorsedh Kernow, revered town burgess and longest-serving member of the Liskeard Old Cornwall Society on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

More than 70 people shared in the celebration hosted by the Liskeard Old Cornwall Society, representing Liskeard town council, burgesses, the Liskeard and District Museum, the Stuart House Trust, Liskeard Methodist Church and the Chamber of Commerce, among others.

A special tribute to John was made by fellow bard George Vaughan Ellis, who reflected on their many years of working together in the town. Mayor of Liskeard cllr Tony Powell then thanked John for his many years of cooperation, advice and support.

The Liskeard and District Museum presented John with a pictorial time line depicting John's many years of commitment to supporting the museum's work.

President of the Federation of Old Cornwall Societies and joint president of the Liskeard Old Cornwall Society Duncan Paul Matthews awarded John life membership of the society, with a citation 'in recognition of his loyalty and lifetime commitment to the Liskeard Old Cornwall Society, as our longest- serving member, past president, recorder and archivist, town burgess and Bard of the Gorsedh Kernow.'

Accompanying John at the celebration was his sister Molly and many friends and associates spanning the nine decades of life in Liskeard.

A faith buffet was provided by the ladies of the Liskeard Old Cornwall Society, with all enjoying the spread while recalling tales and reminiscences of times past.