Paul Sartori was a remarkable man who saw the need for hospice care in Pembrokeshire.

Whilst trying to answer this need, he himself became ill and, sadly, died from cancer at the age of 39.

In his memory, a group of people began to strive to bring his ideas to fruition.

As a result, in May 1981, the Paul Sartori Foundation was formed and the following year began providing hospice care in Pembrokeshire.

Although Paul Sartori was a Haverfordwest Catholic Priest, the foundation was established as a non-denominational organisation and it has no religious association.

The foundation is a registered charity offering specialised supportive care and advice for those with a life limiting illness.

The service is offered free of charge. Funds are raised through various voluntary means and that is supplemented with financial support from the National Health Service and Pembrokeshire County Council, which reaches around 13 per cent of the total amount required. The community of Pembrokeshire helps to raise the other 87 per cent.

The demand for the service has grown and now the foundation provides over 15,000 hours of nursing care a year together with loans of equipment. The service is unpredictable since it is demand led and it is therefore imperative that sufficient funds are raised to cope with periods of high need.

Recently, Rotarian Graham Haddleton, president of the Rotary Club of Narberth and Whitland, welcomed Jo Horton, community relations officer, who explained the origins and the purpose of the foundation.

Following her inspirational address, the Rotarians pledged to help the organisation in some way.

"The motto of Rotary International is 'Service above Self'," said president Graham, "and we pride ourselves in being a 'hands on' organisation. We will be pleased to explore with you any projects which may help the foundation in any way."

The suggestion was enthusiastically supported by the Rotarians present.