A scholarship honouring Dame Jennifer Smith, the former Premier, was unveiled yesterday at the Progressive Labour Party’s founder’s day celebration.

Dame Jennifer, the PLP’s first Premier, served from the party’s first General Election victory in 1998 until 2003.

Dawn Simmons, the PLP chairwoman, told the gathering that Dame Jennifer was also the island’s first elected woman Premier.

David Burt, the Premier, noted it was the first time the party was able to hold founder’s day in person for two years.

The event commemorates the creation of the PLP in 1963.

Mr Burt held up a copy of the party’s 1963 platform, telling the audience: “The PLP has not strayed from its roots.

“But we have not been as successful as we need to be if things from the 1963 platform are not here today.”

He added: “I will be making sure that the things we set out to do in 1963 will be delivered. Mark my words.”

Mr Burt said party stalwart Ann Webb had told the gathering “what needs to be said” when she urged the party faithful to “listen and not talk”, bringing supporters to their feet.

Dame Jennifer was presented with a bouquet of flowers as Mr Burt said: “I could not think of anyone better to name this award after than Dame Jennifer Smith.”

The scholarship will be available to party members and their children for further education.

Jason Wade, PLP MP for Southampton East Central, was keynote speaker for the event held at CedarBridge Academy in Devonshire.

Founder’s day awards went to Roderick Burchall, Valerie Dill, Sandi Gilbert, Gregory Jacobs and Lynn Wade as well as Ms Webb.

Drum major awards went to Ianthia Butler, Rose Douglas, Michelle Khaldun, Betty Smith and Glenn Woods.