Rotary Gala Day 2026

We enjoyed beautiful sunny weather for our Gala Day on September 6th. Once again we thank Broom Hall Hotel for allowing us to use their grounds to hold the event, and to the 200 or so visitors who came along to make the day such a success.

The Gala Day is a family fun event, with several aspects to it, including a classic car show, dog show, fundraising auction and tombola. We were also delighted to present our annual Young Citizen Awards to six community-minded young people. A number of local businesses sponsored the Gala Day, including Detail & Shine Valeting, Su-Bridge, Tyre Pros, Bowles & Walker Ltd and Salec Travel. Local Youth Charity 'Beside Youth' also took a stand at the event.

We included a display on behalf of the Rotary Charity Shelterbox, in view of the recent disaster in Nepal. Shelterbox provide help to families who have lost everything in a natural or wartime disaster. The box includes a tent providing shelter to a family of up to 10, and also cooking equipment, warm clothing and a water purifier.

Throughout the afternoon musical entertainment was provided by the duet Diane & Dave, singing songs for all ages to enjoy.

An estimated 40 classic vehicles were displayed by their proud owners. Vehicles ranged from grand Rolls Royces to classic Triumphs and Renaults, and even a rare Toyota Celica. After much deliberation our judge, Rotarian Ivan Chubbock awarded the trophy for best car to the owner of a superb Sunbeam. In Ivan's words he 'couldn't find any flaws at all on it'. The award for best Commercial vehicle went to a Dodge pick-up, which had very eye-catching paintwork. The trophies were sponsored by Detail & Shine Valeting.

The dog show attracted many more entries than in previous years. Our judge, Rotarian Roy Ivory separated them into small, medium and large groups and awarded a winner in each category. Prizes were generously donated by Su-Bridge Pet Supplies.

Our tombola was once again organised and run by Christine Weatherill, and proved to be very popular with visitors, raising some £50.

Rotarian Paul Weatherill conducted an auction of items donated by local businesses, Rotary members and Friends of Rotary. There was once again a large number of Lots, including fresh apple juice from Ashill Fruit Farm, vouchers for local business  services, tickets for events, tools, cookware, and beautiful artwork. The auction raised over £1250 for our charitable work, for which we thank the generosity of all those who attended.

A Major highlight of the day was the presentation of Young Citizen Awards to Lily-Jai Radford, Emily Poole, Poppy Allen, Rosy Lang, Jasmin Marison and Evelyn Welsh, who were nominated for their outstanding work in the local community. It was a great pleasure to recognise their sefless efforts in this way.