Latest News

Empowering Youth Through Mock Interviews

On 24th September, the Club’s Youth Service Team, led by Zena, successfully delivered the first round of Mock Interviews at Humphry Davy School. These sessions offered valuable real-world experience to students preparing for higher education or entering the workforce. The Club extended its gratitude to Friends of Penzance Rotary - Sarah Shaw, Floyd Steadman, Nigel Walker, and Mandy Duncan - for their generous support.

Member Spotlights: Lunchtime Biographies

Alan Wilson and Graham Calderwood captivated fellow Rotarians with their lunchtime “mini-biography” talks. Their stories highlighted the diverse and often surprising backgrounds within the Club, reinforcing the richness of experience among its members.

Marine Biology Talk by Jessica Rudd

Jessica Rudd, a PhD candidate in Marine Biology, visited the Club to share insights into her research on tuna tracking off the Devon coast. Her presentation on data capture and movement monitoring was well received. The Club thanked Nigel Rudd for arranging the visit from his niece.

Rugby Legends Evening and Upcoming Hospitality Event

Several members attended the Pirates Rugby Club’s fundraising event, “Rugby Legends,” featuring John Inverdale, Phil Vickery, and Andy Powell. Inspired by the evening, the Club is planning to reserve tables for the hospitality lunch ahead of the Pirates vs. Ampthill match on 24th January. Interested members and guests are encouraged to contact Nigel Rudd.

Anita George MBE JP Honoured at Women of the Year Awards

Past-President Anita George MBE JP was nominated for the 2025 Women of the Year award, joining over 400celebrated women at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London. Anita’s decades of service to charities, education, and Cornish cricket were recognised at the event. The Club congratulated her on this well-deserved honour and looks forward to seeing her again soon at The Logan Rock Inn.

Rotary Welcome Stone Restored

Thanks were extended to John Lloyd and Immediate Past President Nigel Clark for professionally cleaning the Rotary “Welcome” stone at Eastern Green. Originally installed in 2005 to commemorate Rotary International’s Centenary, the granite monument remains a proud symbol of Rotary’s presence in the community.

Club Leadership Confirmed for 2026–27

At the Club’s Special General Meeting, held in accordance with Rotary bylaws, the leadership team for the 2026–27 Rotary year was confirmed. The following members will serve alongside incoming President Derath Durkin:

• President Elect (Vice President): Alan Wilson

• President Nominee: Nigel Rudd

• Executive Secretary: Hugh de Robeck

• Honorary Treasurer: Alan Thomas

• District 1175 Voting Delegates: John James and Del James

World Polio Day and Purple 4 Polio Campaign

In recognition of World Polio Day on 24th October, the Club has acquired 4,000 crocus corms through the Purple 4 Polio appeal. These will be planted around Penzance and Newlyn with support from local Flora groups. The initiative aims to raise awareness of Rotary’s global effort to eradicate polio. Special thanks were given to Chris for organising a collection day at Morrisons to support the cause.
 

The Penzance Rotary Club continues to thrive through service, fellowship, and community impact. Members look forward to another month of meaningful activity and shared purpose.