Press Release 14 September 2025
Rotary Club of Llandudno Showcases Local Projects at Open Evening
The Rotary Club of Llandudno recently hosted a well-attended open evening, highlighting a wide range of initiatives making a difference in the local community.
Club President Sarah Lesiter-burgess welcomed guests and outlined the main projects currently underway.
One of the evening’s key focuses was the club’s work on defibrillator accessibility and maintenance in Llandudno. Of the 65 defibrillators in the town, 16 are currently out of use due to not being recently checked. Rotary is now coordinating volunteers to conduct regular inspections of those 16 and is aiming to increase the number available 24/7 and to invest in more units.
Guests also heard from Chris West of Save a Life Cymru, who gave a well-received talk and training session on CPR and defibrillator use. Save a Life Cymru, part of the NHS, was set up to improve survival rates from cardiac arrest by promoting CPR and defibrillation in the community.
Rotary is working in collaboration with other organisations, including Friends of Llandudno on Defibrillators. Local councillors and the Lions Club, who have been particularly active in funding and installing defibrillators across the town, also attended the meeting.
President Sarah also highlighted Rotary’s growing focus on engaging with young people:
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At Ysgol Aberconwy, a mental health support project has helped reduce stigma around issues such as depression, anxiety, and bullying while also providing pupils, parents and carers with practical guidance.
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At Ysgol John Bright, Rotary has stepped in to ensure the continuation of a Youth Sports Club that provides positive activities for 40–60 young people each week, to reduce antisocial behaviour.
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The club is introducing a Youth Citizen Award to recognise young people who show leadership in community projects, environmental initiatives, or sport.
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Through the Bob Mills Music Fund, Rotary supports young people with a passion for music by helping with instrument costs or tuition.
In addition, the club continues to run its annual Community Chest, awarding small grants of £100–£500 to local community groups. This year, seven groups spanning theatre, dance, health, sport, and family support benefited.
Rotary has also set up the independent charity Friends of Llandudno Hospital, supporting patients, staff, and visitors. Two Rotary members serve as trustees. It also supports the Parkinsons Society and other initiatives.
“These projects demonstrate the wide impact Rotary has across the community — from saving lives to supporting young people, health, and the arts,” said Sarah. “We welcome anyone who shares our values of service and community to join us.”
Notes to editors
The photos accompanying this email are from the open evening and show Sarah Lesiter-Burgess, Chris West and some of those who attended the meeting.
The Club of Llandudno is part of Rotary International, the world’s largest service organisation, with 1.4 million members in 46,000 clubs worldwide. The local club, founded in 1927, also runs a “Friends of Rotary” scheme for people who want to stay connected without formal membership.
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