MONTEGO BAY, St James - Esthrana Smith was the belle of the ball at the Guardsman Limited 35th anniversary staff party and awards function held at Tropical Beach in Montego Bay, recently.

Smith, who has served the company for the past 30 years, received special recognition by Executive Chairman Kenneth Benjamin who swooped her in his arms and waltzed to Kenny Rogers' 'Lady' as colleagues and members of the company's executive management cheered and gave her a standing ovation.

Smith was one of 165 team members from Negril and Montego Bay who were feted and honoured earlier this month, as the company continues its 35th anniversary celebrations. Also recognised for 30 years of service was Smith's colleague Frederick Samuels who also got a warm reception when he collected his plaque.

"It has been wonderful working for Guardsman all these years. It doesn't even seem that so many years have passed because it's been such a good experience, the time has just flown by. It feels so good to be recognised by Mr Benjamin and the company for my years of service," said Smith, an Office Attendant at the company since she started three decades ago, as she clutched her plaque.

The party weekend began on Friday October 19 when the Guardsman Negril office on Nonpariel Road, was transformed into party central. A soothing mix of well-loved reggae love songs led into the awards ceremony that saw 49 of the company's finest receiving certificates and plaques of appreciation for 10-25 years of service. A similar scene unfolded in Montego Bay, where 116 team members were recognised for long and dedicated service to the company.

Heightening the already exciting festivities on both nights was a quartet of very flexible Magnum girls. Dressed in cropped tops, black leggings and knee high boots - all enhanced by bright red wigs - the dancers transfixed those present with their dancing antics. Not to miss out on the fun, both female and male staff members also challenged the girls to dancing contests.

The parties were the first of what will be four 'Guard Parties' across the islands. The other two will be held in Mandeville on November 10 and Kingston on November 24.