Christmas Dinner Update

Rotarians take a well-earned break

Late November and the run up to Christmas have seen members of Diss and District Rotary shivering at the front of Tesco as they encouraged members of the public to contribute to the Food Bank Christmas collection, at  Meres Mouth collecting for  ShelterBox for  displaced  families in Gaza,  travelling to Norwich to support the Fire Service as they educate 10 year olds in life saving techniques at Crucial Crew, filling sanctuary boxes with necessities for people settling in to Sanctuary Housing, and heading out on the sleigh with Santa to visit Diss, Stradbroke, Eye, Roydon and Debenham.

But this event was a Christmas Party and members were joined by partners and friends for a happy, enjoyable few hours in the warmth of the Pavilion at Oaksmere.

The event was led by singer/entertainer Karla Beare. Dressed as an elf Karla sang a variety of songs including  many Christmas  hits  and  carols  with  much communal singing. She also proved to be a competent master of ceremonies and photographer too. A very talented elf with the ability to spread fun and friendship.

President John welcomed us before the meal. President Elect Mark had organised the event and he thanked all who had helped him with a short speech after the meal.

About 82 of us sat at nine round tables and ate, drank and were merry. There was singing before and after lunch and considerable chatter and laughter throughout.

Thanks to Mark, Judith and Charles for the organisation, to Karla for her excellent entertainment and to Anna and her team at the Oaksmere for their great   hosting. Thanks also to everyone who attended and to those who brought guests and made it an event to remember.

There are two more outings on the sleigh with Father Christmas and there is a collection for Save the Children at Morrisons before Rotarians can relax completely over the festive season.  Diss and District Rotary looks forward to 2025 with a number of exciting projects ahead.