Representatives of the island’s Rotary Clubs braved a downpour this week with David Burt and the Reverend Dr J Loren Russell, district governor, to commemorate the charity’s 100th anniversary in Bermuda.

Rotarians planted a Bermuda cedar on Thursday on the grounds of the Botanical Gardens in Paget as a testament to a century of contributing to the betterment of Bermuda.

The Premier told them that they “undoubtedly live by the club mottos of ‘service above self’, and ‘one profits most who serves best’.”

“Their consistent support of other institutions, schools and charities with generous donations has not gone unnoticed.

“Moreover, the time, knowledge and expertise their members bring to students and residents have made a significant difference in Bermuda, but also in other jurisdictions.

Mr Burt added: “It is fitting to plant a Bermuda cedar that symbolises your longevity and commitment to nurturing and serving others.”

The Premier told the gathering that he intended to mark the Rotary Club milestone in Bermuda before MPs the next day in the House of Assembly.

The tree planted this week is the first of 100 endemics to be added to Bermuda in celebration of a century’s service.