SPEAK OUT 2024

The Rotary Club of Whitby & District has once again been running the popular public-speaking competition, Speak Out, for teams from local primary schools. Five teams took part in what was an excellent contest and the winners were a team from Fyling Hall School.

Team members, Annabel Fusco, Lara Telling and Frankie Prior spoke on the topic of animal rights being as important as human rights. Their presentation was very well prepared, showing thorough research and well supported by effective examples. Not only was the content of their speeches admirable but also their delivery was confident and articulate, making them worthy winners, though it should be emphasized how well each and every team performed.

The Perry Cup, an award for the best speaker in any category on the night, was won for the second year running by Alex Welford of Hawsker Primary School, who presented an excellent speech with great assurance and completely without notes – an impressive performance!

Organiser, Mike Stones, commented, “ This was one of the best Speak Out competitions that we have run for some time as every team performed to a high level and did themselves proud. Well done to the youngsters taking part and especially to the 3 local schools who supported the event, giving their pupils the opportunity to deliver a speech in front of an audience, a skill not to be underestimated at their age! The Rotary Club continues to support local youth in this way and is very pleased to do so.”

Thanks were expressed to Caedmon College for hosting the event and providing refreshments and also to the faithful adjudicators ( Clair Stones and Janet Peake ) who not only assessed performances but also provided constructive advice to the young speakers. A very healthy crowd of parents, families and supporters appeared to enjoy the event most thoroughly!