BurnAid Day 2025

The Burnaid Fun Day on 6th August 2025 was a wonderful example of what Rotary is all about - there were 60+ child burn victims, their families and carers; a large number of Rotarians ready to help/support/join in and all of the staff from the various activities all of whom were determined to make this a special day for all concerned.

The day started at Stourport Playland with the children and carers making the most of the variety of rides and games. The Rotarian helpers had a stack of tokens to give out so there was no limit to the amount of goes people could have. This was followed by a trip on the River Severn courtesy of The River King and a delicious lunch at the Elizabeth Mills Centre (judging by the number going up for a second helping the caterers got it just right). After lunch there was swash buckling fun at Treasure Island where the children tried to go on as many thrill seeking rides as possible. They then ended the day back at the Stourport Playland for more rides, games and ice creams.

Organiser Syd Handy explained that the Burnaid Fun Day had been going on for the last 20 years and that it always had one aim in mind—to give the children a day they’ll never forget! Burns victims often undergo several years of ongoing treatment so days like today are essential to heal minds as well as bodies. It’s also an important day for the families and carers who may come as strangers on their first visit, but they leave as friends who are looking forward to meeting up in the following years.

Quotes from the children included:

‘The whole day was a fun one and I always look forward to coming back’.

‘It was my first time on a big boat ride . I also loved the rides, going around the park and the big swings!’

Bewdley Corporate members Lucy Field and Heidi Share are taking over the organisation of the Day from Syd. They said how they had been delighted to be approached and were fired up and enthused by the response of the children. It was so rewarding to see every child with a smile on their face!

The event is funded by donations from many sources including Stourport Council, sponsorship from local businesses and the Rotary Five District Trust.