Rotary Children’s Fun Day at Whipsnade Zoo a Huge Success

Wed, Jun 10th 2026 at 9:30 am- Wed, Jun 2nd 2027 - 1:30 pm

More than 750 children with special needs, carers, and volunteers from 58 regional Rotary clubs enjoyed the annual Rotary Children’s Fun Day at Whipsnade Zoo, overcoming stormy weather to create an unforgettable day out…


A Roaring Success at Whipsnade Zoo for Annual Rotary Children’s Fun Day

By David Footitt

More than 750 children, carers, and Rotarians enjoyed an unforgettable day at Whipsnade Zoo as part of the annual Rotary Children’s Fun Day.

Held each year for children with special needs and open to all 58 Rotary clubs across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Hertfordshire, this much-loved event is hosted and coordinated by the Rotary Club of Dunstable. Behind the smiles and excitement lies months of planning by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Every child received a special Fun Day T-shirt and cap, enjoyed a ride on the zoo train, and had the chance to get up close to some of the world’s most amazing animals.

Defying the Elements

The weather certainly tested everyone’s determination, with unseasonably cold hail, thunder, and lightning making an appearance. But true to the Rotary spirit, morale remained high, and by lunchtime the skies cleared, allowing the children to make the most of everything the zoo had to offer.

With Rotary hats, gilets, and flags on display throughout the park, there was no mistaking the incredible volunteer effort on show. It was a fantastic demonstration of why Rotarians are known as People of Action.

Photo Update

We will be sharing photos of the children enjoying their special day once all safeguarding checks have been completed. In the meantime, we have uploaded a few pictures of our volunteers having fun and helping to make the day such a success.

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Visit of Claudio Duran Rotary District Chair of Youth Services District 1260

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A talk on behalf of Addenbrooks Kidney Patients Association by Laura Tilbrook and Julie Walker

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Presentation of Cheque to British Heart Foundation representative Nicola Reavey

Donation presentation to British Heart Foundation

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Nik Pringle from the Hertfordshire Police Historical Society gave a very interesting talk on "Murder"

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Induction of New Member Chris Bennet

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A big thank you to the people of Baldock for supporting our Sleigh Runs this Christmas

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A talk given at our lunch by Maureen Maddren and Alison gentle

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Foundation is Rotary International's own Charity Fund; the money is utilised to address major humanitarian problems around the world.

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We welcome new members interested in having fun while 'giving something back' to the community. Fresh ideas and enthusiasm are the life blood of any organisation

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International Service encompasses actions taken to expand Rotary's humanitarian reach around the globe and to promote world understanding and peace.

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Community Service covers the projects and activities the club undertakes to improve life in its community area.

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An opportunity to get a litle insight into why Rotary is such a great organisation to be part of.

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How Rotary has helped to eradicate Polio in the world. Baldock Rotary Club are proud to be part of this programme

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The

An insight into how and when Baldock Rotary started in October 1953. Letchworth Club sponsored the new Baldock Club and the rest as they say is history...... Our Club has strengthened over the years, we trust it continues to exceed the vision set in 1953

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