Rotary Friendship Crossing Borders

Rotary friendship crossing borders

Storrington and Pulborough Rotary Club was delighted to host a visit of fellow Rotarians from its European Link Club of Villeneuve-sur-Lot in France.

The visitors enjoyed a few days staying with Rotarian hosts and being entertained for lunch (including fish and chips at the Blue Bird Cafe) and by other Members for evening meals.

The French visitors were also shown several local special attractions in West Sussex - Chichester Cathedral with its Bishop’s Garden, Arundel Castle and Gardens, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Polesden Lacey Edwardian House and Estate.

The highlight of the visit was joining local Rotarians at their President’s Night dinner at West Sussex Golf Club. The President’s Night is held annually and is hosted by the President - this year John Ollerton - who was with his wife Helen.

The local Rotary District Governor, Olatunji Olaleye. in his splendid Nigerian dress with a Rotary twist, having the Rotary roundel on his hat and gown, was also present.

The President of Villeneuve-sur-Lot Rotary, Jacque Marty, who was accompanied by his partner Marie-Claude, entertained the evening with a speech (in English) thanking Storrington and Pulborough District Rotary for its hospitality. He also announced that his Club would be donating to it 500 Euros - a very generous gesture.

The visit was thoroughly enjoyable and Storrington and Pulborough District Club looks forward to a return visit to Villeneuve-sur-Lot.