Visit of Mayor of Oswestry and District Governor to Lifeline 2014

For the last two weeks, Year 6 children from both Powys and Shropshire have been coming along to the Agricultural showground for half a day of life-changing 'lessons' from different agencies who have given up their time along with many Rotarians and partners to help the youngsters to wise up before going to secondary school.  The 10 scenarios, at 15 minutes each one, were run by the Red Cross, Police, Fire Service, the National Farmers Union, Coastguard and Rotarian-run Cycle Safety, Bullying, Internet Safety, Railway awareness and Road safety.

Over the course of the week around 250 children from over 20 schools from both sides of the border moved in groups from scenario to scenario learning vital life lessons to help them make decisions to keep themselves safe. The teachers' comments in the feedback revealed how impressed they were too: Stopping distance "I'm shocked that 30 seemed so fast" Stranger danger "the children NEED to be made aware" Red Cross "we ALL need to know a little first aid" "A very enjoyable, friendly, well-organised day. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Thank you" "We love coming here every year!"

On Tuesday 16th Town Mayor Councillor Gareth Jones and the District Governor of Rotary's District 1180, Les Wilson, came along to see what it was all about and visit the scenarios for themselves.  Both were extremely impressed -  the Mayor said "a fantastic experience for the youngsters; it prepares them for life" while the District Governor was of the opinion that it is "a stepping-stone to a safe life. They deal with real-world issues as they prepare for adult life".

The groups from each school which worked best as a team were rewarded with specially-minted medallions at the end of each session and to mark the Mayor and District Governor's attendance 2 children from that day's schools, Whittington and Welshampton, presented them with medallions of their own to go along with their chains of office!

Once again the Rotary Club of Oswestry has provided the Year 6s of the Oswestry area, from both sides of the border, with experiences to help keep them safe as they move on to 'big school' and we thank all volunteers, particularly from the outside agencies, for giving up their time for this valuable purpose.

"Tell Us All About It" Competition

Running for the first time this year, we have a competition to encourage youngsters attending Lifeline to report on their experience of the event. Entitled "Tell Us All About It", pupils were asked to submit a report of up to 150 words on their visit to Park Hall.  There is a prize to the value of £15 for the winner and £25 to their school. Two runners up will each receive £15.