Latest News - May 2026

Member Speakers

We began the month with an engaging mini‑biography from Rob Murdoch, who shared insights into his background and experiences. These talks continue to remind us of the rich variety of skills and life stories within our membership. Our next speaker will be John James on Friday, 5th June.

Shelterboots Challenge

On 8th May, we welcomed Rtn. Rev. Dave Foster and his wife Gerry from Evesham Vale. Dave presented his ambitious fundraising challenge, Shelterboots — a 700‑mile trek from Land’s End to Berwick‑upon‑Tweed. He aims to raise £20,000 for ShelterBox. Donations can be made at: www.justgiving.com/page/shelterboots-26.

Senior RYLA 1175

Of the three young people approached for this year’s Senior RYLA, one candidate — Alex, nominated by Derath — has accepted the invitation to apply. Pending approval, he will attend the week‑long leadership course in June 2026. His family will contribute £295 of the £795 fee, with the Club covering the remainder.

Defibrillator Project

Thanks to Alan Thomas’s initiative, the Club’s project to install two public‑access defibrillators is now complete. Both devices are available 24/7 and secured with combination locks accessible via a 999 call.

• Under the porch of the Queen’s Hotel on the Promenade
• Outside the Rotary Shop, facing the main street

A CPR and defibrillator training session with South West Ambulance Service will be arranged for Shop Volunteers and interested members.

International Friendship Weekend

Over the May Bank Holiday, we welcomed 21 Rotarian visitors from Avranches, Briançon, Barcelonnette (France) and Susa e Val Susa (Italy). The weekend marked an important step in building a shared pathway of Rotary International Service.

We also received a warm message from the President of the Manfredonia Rotary Club, expressing regret at not being able to attend and reaffirming their enthusiasm for future collaboration among clubs connected by the historic line of St Michael.