News of the many social and charitable activities and events undertaken by Marlborough and District Rotary Club 

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10 January 2022: Rotary is Updated on ATE

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2 February 2021: Rotary Supports Carers Charity

Check Out this video presentation of this new and rewarding partnership

carersUK

January 2021: £2100 donated to Childrens Hospice

A letter from Gerry Hooper to the Marlborough News on Line

"I am attaching a pic of the Final Days of Christmas, with Rotarians dismantling the Rotary Christmas Tree that had decorated part of Marlborough High Street during this very unusual and somewhat sad Christmas season.  The tree reminds everyone that Christmas is a time of giving, and that Rotary is supporting a special childrens hospice once again. 

Marlborough & District Rotary have, for many years, supported local childrens hospices at this special time of year, and this year we were collecting for Helen and Douglas House, the childrens hospice in Oxford that looks after life-limited youngsters from Wiltshire and other surrounding counties.  Our part of Wiltshire, centred on Marlborough and Pewsey, has always been generous in giving to these special collections, and many people shopping and wandering along the High Street in Marlborough, or outside the Co-op in Pewsey, will have generously opened their wallets and pockets. 

A total of £2,100 has been donated, and Rotary would  like to thank everyone for their generosity."

August 2020: Two Rotarians Receive Awards

In early August 2020 Immediate Past President Martin Luxford presented, on behalf of Marlborough & District Rotary Club,  Paul Harris Fellowships to Rotarians Tony Green and Martin Couchman as unanimously agreed by all Club members . 

Tony Green received the award in recognition of his long standing contribution to Rotary. He has been finding and organising speakers for our regular meetings, despite not being in the best of health, and has contributed greatly to social events, including visits to the Magic Circle of which he was a member.

Martin Couchman has given long and valuable service to the Club having taken on the demanding roles of Honorary Secretary and Honorary Treasurer for many years . In addition Martin was also President in 2008-2009.

Both Rotarians are enthusiastic and committed members of the Club who contribute the fellowship that we all enjoy.

19 November 2020: Father Christmas sends a Message to the Children

To hear the message click on Father Christmas

 

30 June 2020: What have we been doing during 'Lockdown"

It doesn't seem all that long ago that we held our last meeting at the Marlborough Golf Club with President Martin saying “we’ll aim at early June for our next meeting”. At the time it seemed a long time to have empty Monday evenings but now it seems to have been rather optimistic with no obvious end in sight.  

But things have not stood still. Our regular local charities have been supported, new contacts have been made with organisations helping people through the lockdown, cash donations have been made to help feed the people of Pewsey through the PCCA team and equipment has been supplied to support the needs of local families.  Rotarians have learned how to “Zoom” for regular club meetings on Monday nights, Council has similarly met on several occasions and Rex has drawn the worthy winners of the 100 Club.  

What events have we missed: Our popular Easter Fayre scheduled to be in Pewsey’s  Bouverie Hall, the May Bank Holiday Boot Sale at Marlborough Rugby Club, both usually excellent fund raisers for us, the Know Your Blood Pressure Day at the Jubilee Centre (an excellent location for Rotarians to capture passers-by in the High Street to provide them with check of their blood pressure) and last but not least the camaraderie of Rotary, because as good as Zoom may be it is no substitute for real live contact with your friends and colleagues.

Our next venture is to hold our Club Assembly on 6 July by Zoom.  District Governor, Chris Firth, will be joining us so we’re hoping for a good turn out. That will test the chairmanship skills of our President! 

19 February 2020:  Rotary Donates Sound System to Youth Centre

Marlborough and District Rotary Club have today, Wednesday February 19, presented Marlborough Youth and Community Centre with a powerful £900 sound system. 

Martin Luxford, President of Marlborough and District Rotary, told Marlborough.news, “We’re delighted to help the Youth and Community Centre to provide facilities for young people in Marlborough.  It’s part of our on-going programme of support. We managed to secure a grant from Rotary District of £1500 towards equipment.”

A set of basketball hoops and backboards were purchased with the first part of the grant.

Mayor Mervyn Hall, accepting the sound system on behalf of the Youth Centre, said, “We’re very grateful to the Rotary Club for providing this.  This new sound system will enable us to provide music for parties and because the equipment can run on batteries it can be used outside to provide PA and music for events.”

The sound system will also be available for use to those who wish to book the Youth and Community Centre for parties and events.  

Article and Photograph courtesy of Marlborough News and Sue Round

24 December 2019:  £2037 Collected for Charities by Street Collection

Our main Christmas Charity for 2019 was Naomi House children’s hospice and Rotarians located in Marlborough and Pewsey collected the total of £2037 that will go to this charity and others supported by Rotary. 

Our thanks go to the Marlborough and Pewsey residents who gave so generously and enabled us to achieve this magnificent amount.

16 December 2019:  Christmas Meal at the Golf Club

A large number of Rotarians, partners, friends and Rotary guests sat down to an excellent Christmas meal at the Golf Club.  

18 November 2019: Sailor Cedric and 5000 Years of the Orkneys

Rotarian Cedric Hollinsworth confirmed to the assembled Rotarians that he is a confirmed masochist, he didn’t actually admit to it directly but it became abundantly evident to his friends that he must be.  The evidence was the photos taken of him sailing to the Orkneys last June in Force 7+ winds and 4m waves.  Non-masochists would have been in local pub waiting for better weather!

Anyway it was fortunate that Cedric made the trip because it enabled him to give an interesting talk on 5000 years of recent history of the Orkneys from the Stone Age, through the Iron Age, the Picts, the arrival of the Vikings and then following a period of nothing much happening the use of Scapa Flow as large natural harbour for the Royal Navy.  Scapa Flow was also the scene of the scuttling of the 52 ships of the German navy during the Armistice negations when the German officers thought their ships would be handed over to the British and decided that this should not happen. The British fleet used Scapa Flow during World War 11 and it was the scene of a daring raid by a German U-boat which sunk the battleship Royal Oak, moored in the apparent safety of its waters

Along the way Cedric covered the history of the Orkneys explaining that there are more Neolithic sites there than in Wiltshire, including stone circles. Cedric explained why the people stayed on such apparently forbidding treeless islands in cold wet weather by explaining that in fact the weather was much warmer then  and fishing and agriculture were the main occupations.   By the time of the Iron Age (800BC - 500AD) the weather had turned much colder, but by then the islanders were quite prosperous and secure. At about this period the Picts were in abundance the term meaning “painted people” until the arrival of the Vikings who probably wiped them out. The Vikings stayed fro 875AD to 1468AD and were responsible for building St Magnus Cathedral, still an impressive building, now managed by Scottish Heritage. 

Now Orkneys main industries are Diving, Archeology and birdwatching, and in increasing numbers Cruise passengers, who descend in vast numbers onto these small islands, sometime outnumbering the local inhabitants.

After Cedric concluded his interesting talk and picture show Rex Sandbach gave the Vote of Thanks 

10 November 2019: President Martin Lays Wreath at War Memorial

President Martin Luxford joined other local dignitaries representing their associations at the annual Marlborough Remembrance Day parade and wreath laying. The ceremony was witnessed by a large number of local citizens who came to pay their own respects.

4 November 2019:  The Story of the Vulcan in the Cold War

The talk entitled “The Vulcan in the Cold War” promised to be entertaining and so it was, ex-RAF officer John Weller gave his presentation to an almost full complement of Rotarians.  John served on the most famous of the three V bombers, the Vulcan, for 9 years during the 1960’s racking up  2200hrs of flying.  

John’s career started at RAF Cottismore and continued with various postings including Cyprus. After training he took up the role as Navigator -Radar in the five man Vulcan crew, which meant he was also the weapons officer.  We learned of the pressures in the Cold War when the policy of  Mutually Assured Destruction - MAD - was in place and the conditions it placed on the bomber crews.  Once the bombers had been sent to drop atomic weapons on the enemy, while at the same time the enemy were doing the same, meant that by the time they returned, if indeed they did, there would be nothing left of the airfield or the surrounding countryside. We learned of QRA, the Quick Reaction Alert whereby one bomber and its crew were always on active standby ready to leave at moments notice.

John ran through the four different variants of the Vulcan that existed from the time it was specified in 1948, achieving first active service in 1956 to its retirement from front line defence in 1968 when the Polaris submarines took over that role.  We learned of its performance and of the various versions of the atomic bombs and latterly the hydrogen bombs and missiles that formed its armanents.   

All too soon the talk came to its conclusion and following an active Q&A session Rob Mitchenall gave the vote of thanks.

9 September 2019:   Support Sent for Survivors of Hurricane Dorian

At our meeting on 9 September our members supported the purchase of six Water Survival boxes, value £900, to be sent to the Bahamas to help the survivors of Hurricane Dorian.    The boxes are produced by a charity managed by the Rotary Club of Chelwood Bridge in North East Somerset and over 14,000 have been sent in response to 60 disasters in 30 different countries.

26 August 2019:  Bumper Boot Sale Breaks All Records

Our Bank Holiday Boot Sale was a great success and broke all records, eclipsing even our May Bank Holiday event and contributed over £2000 to Charity Fund which supports many worthwhile local causes. 

The first sellers arrived soon after 6am while Rotarians were sleepily putting up car parking directions, establishing the food tent and generally making sure all was ready for the onslaught. By 7am, there were 40 or 50 “boots” on the field and the first of the buyers had arrived to catch the early bargains.  At 8am, the sale was in full swing with buyers cars keeping the parking team busy while sellers continued to arrive. Soon the field was just about full with a 100 “boots” while the buyers rush continued without abating. At the peak there must have been a car parking every 10 seconds and we estimated over thousand cars must have arrived between 7am until we closed at noon. 

The catering team were running at full speed selling coffees, teas, cool drinks and bacon and sausage rolls to the hungry crowds. Star Chef Paul Cowan kept the bacon and sausages moving, a hot job on this warm day, and the ice cream man was doing a roaring trade.  Car Boot organiser extraordinaire, Gerry Hooper, was kept busy organising his parking  and field team whilst President Martin Luxford kept them all happy with a supply of coffee and bacon baps.  It was a tired, but happy team of Rotarians who packed up after everybody had gone and repaired for a well earned rest and refreshment.  

Thank you to all those sellers and buyers who contributed to this Record Day, we really appreciated your continuing help and support.  Also, a quick mention to the English Cricket team who put everybody in such a good mood with their thrilling win over the Australians the previous day.   

Look out for our next Boot Sale, it will be at the same time, same place on May Bank Holiday Monday, 25 May 2020. 

Make a date in your diary NOW.

19 August 2019;  Caroline Continues in her Father's Footsteps

We are very pleased to welcome Caroline Peck as our latest Rotarian. A long term Marlborough resident and business owner for 38 years Caroline has supported the local community in many ways including serving on committees for the Marlborough Carnival and the Christmas Lights. She is also a Horn Player in the Phoenix Brass band.

At her inauguration Caroline explained to the Rotarians that her father had been a committed Rotarian and was President of the Marlborough Club in 1977-78. Consequently she had grown up understanding the support that Rotary gives to the local community both financially and by using its skills and mentoring. Now, after a very busy life as mother and business woman she feels it is time for her to follow in the family tradition and join Rotary and looks forward to taking an active part in our activities and events.

19 August 2019: Experiences on the East Africa Playgrounds Project

Megan Drowse came to our meeting to talk about her experiences as volunteer on the The East Africa Playgrounds Project.  She explained that the Project was started 10 years ago to provide safe and exciting playgrounds for children in Uganda and to provide a volunteering scheme to let young people experience four weeks living and volunteering within a local Ugandan community. During that time the volunteers help to transform a community school by building a new playground from start to finish with a team of trained Ugandan builders and welders.  At the weekends, the volunteers have the chance to explore the wonders of Uganda.

After being accepted on the scheme last October Megan started raising the necessary £800 to join the volunteers and she quickly raised this sum, helped by a £250 donation from Rotary. So in July 2019 she found herself, together with 21 other volunteers in Bukyanda Primary School ready to help build a new playground. During the morning the volunteers worked on manual jobs helping erect the play equipment whilst the afternoons found them assisting with the 60+ children in the classrooms.  Weekend were spent sightseeing.

Megan found the whole experience uplifting and admired the people and their great welcome and friendship. Her high point was the Open Day, held on completion of the playground when everybody gleefully swarmed over the equipment trying it out for the first time. 

31 July 2019:  Rotarians Donate to Air Ambulance 

On Wednesday 31^stJuly a party of eleven Marlborough & District Rotarians visited the Wiltshire Air Ambulance base at Semington. They enjoyed a tour of the operational facilities hosted by paramedic Craig and pilot Rob.  

The tour started in the control room where each mission is planned using a large scale interactive map of Wiltshire and surrounding counties.  Next they visited  the hanger where the Bell 429 helicopter was housed having recently returned from servicing.  Rob explained the features of the helicopter and the challenges presented by operating the helicopter for potentially 19 hours a day.  Craig demonstrated the impressive range of equipment used by the paramedics to assist with the treatment of casualties in the field. All the equipment was purchased thanks to the donations raised by the public and supporters  

A cheque for £2200 representing the proceeds from our Easter Fayre was presented by President Martin on behalf of the Club. 

Finally the Rotarians visited a novel interactive training room in which various scenarios could be projected on the walls complete with sound and control of the ambient temperature to provide an immersive environment when treating casualties  The scenarios ranged from crowded night clubs to snow filled forests to busy roadside sites.  

Everyone enjoyed the visit immensely and left with a greater appreciation of the wonderful work done by the charity and its professional staff.  After the visit most of the party enjoyed a convivial lunch at the canal side Barge Inn at Seend Cleeve.

29 July 2019:  Rotarians Learn how to Build a Queen

Thirty two Rotarians, partners and guests were entertained to an excellent meal at their regular meeting at the Golf Club, followed by a most interesting talk given by Alastair Greener entitled “The Building of a Queen”

To the relief of many this turned out to be talk about the construction of the Queen Elizabeth, the third Cunard ship to hold this name and the 148th of their ships, rather than any of the potential alternative subjects that had been suggested.

Alastair was well qualified to give the talk having been in the cruise business starting in 1995 before becoming a Cruise Director for Cunard in 2005, serving at one time or another on all their 3 “Queens”.  In particular Alastair was tasked with recording the progress of the building of this new Queen Elizabeth from the build decision date of 10 October 2006 to her entering service, on time and on budget (£365m) 4 years later.  

His talk started with some history of the first two Cunard ships to bear the name, the first Queen Elizabeth commissioned during WW11 and used as a troop ship alongside her sister ship Queen Mary,  and then the famous QE2 which with 40 years in service was the longest serving Cunarder, before finally ending her days in April 2018 being used as a floating hotel moored in Dubai.  

His talk then concentrated on the design and building of the new Queen, describing the stages of building in the Fincantieri shipyard in Trieste Italy from the cutting of the first steel to the final fitting out followed by the sea trials and handover to the permanent crew.  It was fascinating talk, well supported by photographs, which revealed the necessity for excellent project management to support the complex system of producing many different modules, which were eventually welded together to form the final ship. The system was a revelation to many of the Rotarians and nothing like traditional ship building which used to start from the keel and works upwards.  

Following a short Q&A session John Lewis proposed the Vote of Thanks.

27/28 July 2019:  Rotarians Support the Battle of Marlborough

Last Saturday and Sunday (27/28 July 2019) Marlborough Common resounded to the noise of battle. The Civil War was being fought all over again by the Roundheads and Cavaliers reliving their exploits of 1642 when the Royalist troops attacked the town.  Meanwhile the citizens off Marlborough went about their business in the Priory Gardens demonstrating 17 century crafts.

The battle was fought with determination by the troops, many of whom looked very well fed, obviously after life of plundering the poor innocent towns folk and country folk of their hard won food. The Royalist artillery pounded the town walls making much noise in the process, such that it could be heard even in Ducks Meadow., The aim was obviously poor as no damage could be discerned. Likewise the regular firing of muskets seemed to produce few bodies on the field of battle until eventually hand to hand fighting saw several fallen soldiers, to exhausted to get up. 

Throughout all this mayhem Marlborough Rotarians and helpers parked the horse and carts (and cars) of the visitors and Rotarian’s wives provide succour to the watchers, as all that noise and smoke caused much thirst to the serfs. 

President Martin was on hand to ensure the smooth working of his troops, ably assisted by his wife Beverley.

Over the two days Rotary collected the goodly sum of £464, which will be used to support local charities. 

8 July 2019: Rotarians Entertained to the Life of William the Marshall

At our regular Monday meeting Martin Collison entertained the assembled Rotarians to an exhaustive account of the life of William Marshall, 1st Earl of Pembroke; an Angel-Norman soldier and statesman who lived from 1146 to 1219. During that time he served five English Kings, Henry 11, the “Young King” Henry, Richard 1, John and Henry 111. Knighted in 1166, he spent his younger years as a knight errant and a successful tournament competitor.  

William became known as “The Marshall” following on from his father’s family which held the hereditary title of Marshall to the King.  Life was complicated ion those days and Martin did an excellent job in explaining to the Rotarians the vagaries of life in those days, with ever changing sympathies to kings and Queens and the need to be seen on the right side at the right time, otherwise the consequences could be serious. 

1 July 2019: A Busy Night of Changes at Rotary 

Monday 1st July was busy night at our meeting at the Golf Club.  It was the start of our new Rotary Year and that meant there was a changing of the Guard. The most important change being that of the installation of our new President Martin Luxford, while saying goodbye to Stewart Dailly, who now fills the post of Immediate Past President.   

Of the other Officers, the very important post of Honorary Secretary continues to be ably filled by Peter Waine, while Jack Torrens takes over from Cedric Hollinsworth as Honorary Treasurer. The posts of President Elect and President Nominee remain open for keen Rotarians to announce their candidature. 

Before leaving his post, President Stewart had the pleasurable task of inducting Mike Burstow into Rotary to become our 27th member. (Mike is the tall slim one on the right!)

Welcome Mike, we all hope that you have an enjoyable and fulfilling time as a Rotarian.

 

24 June 2019:  The Youth Adventure Trust Explained

Natalie Levin from the Youth Adventure Trust joined us at out meeting last Monday to talk about their work with vulnerable young people. The Trust was established in 1992 by David Templeman-Adams to show young people that by challenging themselves they could achieve more than they expected. 

Natalie explained that their Youth Adventure Programme is a three year outdoor youth development course that provides young people between the ages of 11 and 16 the chance to try new things and challenge themselves and grow confidence as a result .  The programme provides a safe environment in which the young people can flourish rather than the chaotic home lives many of them experience. 

Natalie described several inspiring examples of the progress made by young people who had been on the course and the positive difference it had made to their lives. 

After a Q&A session Jeremy Zabell gave the Vote of Thanks for a most illuminating evening.

The Youth Adventure Trust has a website which gives many more details and examples of their work 

www.youthadventuretrust.org.uk

9 June 2019:  The Presidents Day:  A Very British Summer Party

The garden looked lovely, with the sun shining on it, the gazebos and tables spread over the lawn, and the smell of the barbeque making everyone's mouth water.  President Stewart and Sue had been working hard to through the previous rainy weeks and their garden had responded with roses, flowering trees, water lillies in the pond.  All to accommodate the President's Garden Party, which was a celebration of the excellent Rotary Year which had been enjoyed by the whole Club.

While Jack T and Martin L prepared vegetables to be roasted on the barbeque, Paul C was arranging a massive salmon on one machine, with a huge beef fillet on the other.  As Rotarians, partners and Friends of Rotary settled themselves around the tables, the wine and drinks and conversation was flowing.  Everyone was warm in the sunshine, such a contrast to the rainy days either side of that blessed Sunday.  The main course, of beef and salmon with roasted vegetables, new potatoes and salads was followed by the most wonderful desserts full of cream, strawberries and meringue.  Sue, with help from Bev L, had prepared all this food, and it was fully appreciated by all.  

Conversation and laughter continued throughout, as everyone enjoyed a pleasant afternoon, which was a suitable and congenial way to end a happy and successful presidential year.

3 June 2019:  A Microlight Flight of Fancy

Last Monday night Rotarians were entertained to a verbal microlight flight around Wiltshire  by Tony Hughes Owner and Chief Flying Instructor of the Wiltshire Microlight Centre at Yatesbury Field near Cherhill.

Tony Green introduced Tony Hughes telling the audience that he was an ex-RAF pilot as well as being a twice European Hang Gliding Champion. Tony’s talk started with a bit of history of his association with the Centre, which started over 24 years ago and then proceeded aised by several photograhs (courtesy of operator Martin Luxford) to look at the development of the microlight from the experimental primitive versions in the early days just after the second world war to the present sophisticated flying machines. 

NASA started the genre by attaching a steerable parachute to space capsules in the years just after the second world war, These steerable parachutes improved into the wing shapes more recognisable today and became hang gliders. The more adventurous added engines to the hang gliders and the microlight was born. These early machines were not particularly safe and a high number of accidents were recorded resulting in the Civil Aviation Authority become involved with regulation and insisting the machines had CAA approval.  

The resulting safer machines proved popular and by the late 1980’s the sport had expanded considerably. A change from noisy high revving two stroke engines to quieter 4 stroke improved the acceptance of airfield neighbours to the extent that now they are hardly noticeable when they fly overhead. 

Tony told us of developments of the machines for use by the military, making use of the quieter flight, and also of his experiences flying over mysteriously appearing crop circles the Pewsey area. 

Following a Q&A session Rob Mitchenall gave the Vote of Thanks.  

27 May 2019:  Car Boot Sale Posts a Great Success earning £1600 for Rotary Charities 

6 am on Bank Holiday Monday found a sleepy band of Rotarians setting up the infrastructure for their car boot sale on Marlborough Common.  The day promised good weather and they were hoping for large crowd and another successful fund raising event.

The didn’t have long to wait as, although the gates officially opened to sellers at 7am and buyers at 8pm, the first sellers arrived at 6:15 to claim the best pitches quickly followed by some optimistic buyers. The pressure soon came on the Rotarian refreshment team to produce coffee and bacon rolls for these early arrivals - and their fellow Rotarians, some of whom had got up far too late to have any breakfast at home!   

By 8am everything has at full speed, Over 80 cars, trailers and vans had arrived and set up shop selling a vast array of goods, the refreshment team was doing a roaring business and buyers were streaming into the car park. Chief Organiser Gerry Hooper commented that he hadn’t ever seen such a large and enthusiastic crowd so early on. 

As the morning progressed a steady supply of new buyers arrived,  most by car taking advantage of the plentiful and free parking (but donations gratefully received) but also a large number walking up from the town taking some exercise in the process. Some late coming sellers arrived to swell the numbers and the weather, despite some threatening clouds, stayed dry.  

Closing time soon came at noon, the refreshment team reported a bumper morning with bacon and sausages just about sold out, the gate keeper extolled his success in taking record fees from sellers and the bucket men advised the generosity of the public.  After expenses a profit of £1600 was calculated - all for the Charities supported by Rotary. 

Soon all the buyers and sellers had all departed, Rotarians had packed up their equipment, the small amount of rubbish had been picked up, the car park gate was locked and the common and Rugby Club were left in peace with hardly any sign of the recent activity.

Thanks to everyone, Rotarians, sellers and buyers and of course the Rugby Club which allows us use of their club house, who all contributed to the success of the day.  100% of the profits from this event go to Charities supported by Rotary

Our next Car Boot Sale is at the same place, same times on late summer Bank Holiday, Monday 26 August 2019.  

We look forward to seeing you    

27 April 2019:  Blood Pressure Patients Battle Storm Hannah

Storm Hannah brought her high winds and rain to Marlborough on the very day Rotarians had set aside to run their ‘Know Your Blood Pressure” day in association with the Stroke Association.

In spite of the wind the banners and notices are erected outside of the Jubilee Centre whilst the blood pressure measuring devices were tested and prepared. Unfortunately whilst the storm had not deterred the Rotarians the same cannot be said of the general public who had obviously sensibly decided that unless they needed to visit the shops they would stay safely at home. And those that did venture forth were on mission and did not wander around. 

Consequently, the number of people tested this year was less than 50% of the numbers in previous years. Nevertheless the organising Rotarian Martin Luxford expressed satisfaction at job well done under less than ideal conditions. 

15 April 2019:  Rotarians Support Aid to Cyclone Idai Relief

At their recent Monday Meeting Marlborough & District Rotarians wholeheartedly endorsed the donation of 5 Rotary Water Survival boxes (value £1,050) to the relief effort in the wake of Cyclone Idai.  The boxes, pictured below, together with hundreds of others donated by other Rotary Clubs world wide, will be deployed to the areas of Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi devastated by the Cyclone in March.

For more details of the Water Survival Boxes click on this link:  Water Survival Box

 

13 April 2019: Easter Fayre at Bouverie Hall Brings out Pewsey

At long last the day of our Easter Fayre had arrived. Rotarians had delivered the essential equipment to the Bouverie Hall the previous evening and all that was left was for the stall holders to set up their wares for sale and the general public to arrive in their droves to buy them all.

The day was bright but cold as the Bouverie Hall was opened at 7am and Rotarians started to erect their own stalls for home-made cakes, books, a Tombola and to set up the kitchen for the all important tea, coffee cakes and bacon sandwiches.

Soon the first stall holders arrived and were escorted to their allocated positions. Willing Rotarian volunteers helped carry in the goods, flowers, candles, clothes racks, garden tools, and a plethora of other excellent merchandise. A steady flow of them arrived as if organised by a hidden schedule and by 9am, with no apparent difficulties, everyone was putting the final touches to their own stalls and looking around at the others in the hall while renewing old acquaintances and having a welcome cup of tea. 

Wiltshire Air Ambulance, the major beneficiaries of the proceeds of the day were in full attendance with their stall, replete with a large scale working model of the air ambulance helicopter. Sadly for many it was without its rotors so could not put on a display. Also present was the Air Ambulance mascot, Wilbear, who made several sorties to the Pewsey town to encourage new visitors as well as being on hand to welcome them, young and old.

The first customers had arrived before the official opening time of 9:30am, hoping to secure the best goods before sampling the tea and bacon sandwiches. They were followed by a steady stream of Pewsey residents and visitors, encouraged by Wilbear, which built to a peak at about 11:30, just right for those “elevenses” after some busy shopping. 

Closing time at 2pm soon came around, the stalls packed away, The hall cleaned and very soon there was no sign of the Fayre at all. 

Rotarian Cedric Hollinsworth, who had lead the organisation of the Fayre, declared himself satisfied with the day although, as he said, a few more visitors would always be welcome.  The proceeds have not yet finally known but look as if they will be similar to those of the 2018 Fayre.

2 April 2019:  Rotary Youth Activities and Competitions

Martin Luxford, our President Elect 2019/20 and current Chairman of the Community-Vocational group in Rotary gave his report on the Activities and Competitions run by Rotary for local youth and in particular the recently held Rotary Young Chef competition. 

30 March 2019:  Human Daffodils Seen in Marlborough High Street.

Last Saturday, 30 March, an outbreak of human daffodils was reported on Marlborough High Street, with a lesser number reported from the Co-op in Pewsey.

On investigation it transpired to be a fund raising event for the Marie Curie charity, organised by Rotarian Rex Sandbach, who had arranged for supporters and some Rotarians to collect from the Marlborough shoppers.  In keeping with the name of this well known annual event, The Great Daffodil Appeal, and to make the collectors stand out to potential donors many of the collectors wore bright yellow daffodil hats .

The Marie Curie organisation provides expert care and support to people with terminally illnesses, as well as supporting their families..  

10 March 2019:  Howard Small Presented with Paul Harris Fellowship

Peter Waine reports from a recent Area Meeting in Swindon that a surprised Howard Small was presented with a well deserved Paul Harris Fellowship by Joan Goldsmith, the District Governor. 

In her speech Joan thanked Howard for his hard work in relation to the Brighter Futures appeal and his achievement in getting a Global Grant from Foundation for the charity. 

9 Janaury 2019: Presentation of Armistice Beacon Donations 

Marlborough & District Rotary raised more than £300 at last November's Armistice Beacon ceremony on The Common, the proceeds of which were shared between the Marlborough British Legion and SSAFA - the Armed Forces Charity, and on Wednesday (9 January) Marlborough Rotary Chairman Stewart Dailly presented a cheque for £155 to Marlborough British Legion Chairman Alek Sagar.

 

Marlborough's Armistice Centenary commemorations concluded with a ceremony on the Common where the Mayor, Cllr Lisa Farrell lit the beacon that could be seen for miles. The names of those from the Marlborough area who gave their lives in the conflict were read out by representatives of the Council and Community.  This ceremony was organised jointly by the Malborough Town Council and he Rotary Club of Marlborough and District.

17 December 2018:  Rotarians Magically Entertained

Our Christmas Party at the Golf Club found Rotarians, partners and guests in splendid evening attire all looking their very best.  The evening started with a presentation by President Stewart Dailly of a £750 cheque to Rachel Rosedale of Marlborough Poverty Action Group. Rachel was accompanied by Betty Dobson.  Stewart explained that a an  excellent £500 had been raised by Rotary ladies on their stall in Marlborough High Street selling Christmas gifts, to which Rotarians had added a further £250, to make up there total. In response Rachel thanks Rotary and agreed to come along in the New Year to talk about the workings of the Group. 

The evening proceeded with a first class meal provided by the Golf Club and then it was on to magic and illusion from Paul Preager. He warmed up with a few table tricks which, although they were performed only inches from the audiences eyes,  still baffled us. How do they do it?   Then on to the main show where his piece de resistance was to suspend a lady from the top of the back of a chair.  Most impressive and good entertainment.   Then all too soon the carriages arrived and the diners disappeared their separate ways to perhaps have a final snifter before going to bed and preparing for their next Christmas dinner event.  

8 December 2018:  Big Collections and Stalls in Marlborough

Once again Marlborough Rotarians have been on the streets in Marlborough and Pewsey collecting for good causes, this time the principal recipient being Julia’s House, the children hospice in Devizes. The good citizens in both towns dug into their pockets on the first weekend of 8 December and it is hoped that they will be equally generous on the next collection date of 22 December. 

On the same day the Rotarian ladies had stall sellingChristmas gifts, located outside of Lloyds bank and very successful it proved to be raising almost £500. 

3 December 2018: Rotarians are Educated ?

Rotarian, classical scholar and connoisseur Peter Waine entertained a select group of fellow Rotarians to his selection of opera and ballet in a vain attempt to educate them in the finer arts of life and appreciation of the comic potential in these classical art forms. 

Peter’s selection of film clips demonstrated his posts most aptly and it was only a shame that more Rotarians were not present to hear his impassioned pleas, many falling on deaf ears and the occasional drowning out by snores. 

The good news is that Peter has threatened to treat this evening as rehearsal for a longer talk sometime in the new year on date not to be revealed in advance to ensure a full house.

30 November 2018: Father Christmas Visits Marlborough

Friday 30 November saw a crowded  Marlborough Hight Street to watch the Christmas Lights being turned on by TV personality Paul Martin.  This regular event provides Rotary great opportunity to help the town by organising the stewarding and marshalling of the High street and attendant road closures, assisted by several other organisations.  After several years in charge Rotarian Cedric Hollingsworth has the system down to a fine art, although even he could not prevent the power problem caused by sharp shower an hour before the start   

A major attraction at the light switch on is for children to see Father Christmas in his Grotto, assisted as always by his naughty (if ageing) elves. This Father Christmas is not to be confused by the imposter supplied by the Lions Club who rides around the High Street in his Sleigh before dismounting and heading to the nearest hostelry. 

Thursday saw a hive activity in the Town Hall as Father Christmas’ advance guard, led by Rotarian Gerry Hooper, building the grotto to his exacting specifications, including a christmas tree trail. Meanwhile under the beady eye of Bev Luxford the tea and mulled wine stall quickly took shape. 

Friday afternoon soon came and Father Christmas and his elves arrived to take their places and meet the children and infants that had booked to see him. Adults took advantage of the very reasonably priced teas cakes and mulled wine. Father Christmas was busy for five hours although, as the photos show, he did seem to find time for some extra-curricular activities. 

Thanks to everyone who supported this event  

12 November 2018:  A Busy Night in Rotary

Marlborough Rotarian had busy night at their Monday meeting.  The evening opened with President Stewart Dailly presenting a cheque for £600 to Julia’s House. Phil Stevens, who collected the cheque gave fulsome thanks and explained the importance of continuous funding for this very worthy cause. He also talked about the impact on the siblings and parents of the children in the hospice and the importance of considering them in the care programme.

The evening continued with our District Governor, Joan Goldsmith, giving an interesting talk starting with her background in education and the probation service, through to her life in Rotary and her experiences and objectives as District Governor.  It surprised many Rotarians how much international travel was involved in the post, never mind the the very time consuming, if absorbing, tasks that seemed to leave very little time for a “non Rotary” life.  It became obvious that a DG needs a very understanding and committed spouse/partner during their tenure and in her husband, David, Joan seems to have found the ideal person. 

Don Ross gave the Vote of Thanks and DG Joan then left with her “driver for the night”  Leon. 

11 November 2018:  Rotary supports "The Battles Over" Event

11 November: Marlborough Remembers - WW1 Ends

Marlborough & District Rotary Club and Marlborough Town Council are playing their part in Battle’s Over, an international commemoration marking 100 years since the guns fell silent at the end of World War I.

At 6.55pm a bugler will sound the Last Post at Marlborough's Battle's Over Ceremony on The Common and at more than 1,000 other locations, and at 7pm a beacon will be lit, in a tribute called Beacons of Light, signifying the light of peace that emerged from the darkness of four years of war. Then at 7.05pm bell ringers at St Mary’s Church will join other churches across the country ringing their bells as part of Ringing Out for Peace and Marlborough's Town Crier, Mike Tupman, with more than 100 other Town Criers up and down the country and around the world, will perform a specially-written Cry for Peace Around The World.  Finally, as the bells continue ringing in the background, the names of Marlborough people who fell will be remembered.

For more information and the full press release follow this link.  Battle's Over

http://www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk/2018-remembrance-events

After a good few weeks in the sun your webmaster has returned and reports on the activities of Marlborough & District Rotarians resumes normal service.  

Obviously in his absence standards had started to slip as was evidenced by the speaker secretary managing to book two separate speakers for the same evening. There is first for everything!   After much embarrassment for the speaker secretary and the club having to find another dinner the situation was resolved, the “proper” speaker stayed and the “spare” speaker returned to his home earlier than expected.

We were not disappointed, Steve Conteh and dentist from Savernake Dental Clinic gave an excellent talk on the advances in modern dentistry, complete with a multitude of photographs of teeth in all conditions.  

He commenced by reminding the assembled Rotarians what things had been like in their childhoods, generally in the 1940’s and 1950’s.  He showed us pictures of severe looking dentists, upright wooden chairs, slow old drills, gas rather than injections for pain relief - at least there were no needles! - to name but few. Thankfully this was after dinner otherwise we would all have been put off our excellent lasagne. 

The advent of digital photography, the use of composite white fillings, magnifying lenses for dentists to see those small cracks and cavities, modern teeth whitening and straightening techniques, the use of implants and new digital machining and printing to make replacement teeth while you wait were all covered.  It was a far cry from the 1950’s and all expertly and interestingly explained by a practitioner who obviously loved his job. 

After a Q&A session the vote of thanks was given by Gerry Hooper

17 September 2018:  Rotarians Get First Aid Training

At our meeting last Monday Rotarians were reminded how little they remembered of any first aid training and knowledge they may have accumulated in their younger years.

Introduced by Tony Green, Emma Noakes of Wiltshire First Aid gave a very interesting talk and practical demonstrations of the way to use a defibrillator and how to undertake CPR on various sizes of people, from larger sized adults down to young babies under 1 year old (as pictured). 

After a good question and answer session Peter Lincoln round off the evening with the Vote of Thanks 

7 September 2018:  Marlborough Mayor now an Honorary Rotarian

Marlborough Mayor, Councillor Lisa Farrell, was awarded an Honorary Membership of Marlborough and District Rotary Club at a small ceremony held in the Community and Youth Centre last Friday, 7 September. In presenting the Honorary Membership, Rotary Club President Stewart Dailly said “he hoped it would cement the good relationship enjoyed by the Club with the Town and that he and the other Rotarians looked forward to welcoming the Mayor at some of their regular Monday evening meetings, held at the Golf Club.”  

Whilst already involved with many local charities and events, especially providing the Father Christmas grotto at the the forthcoming Christmas lights, President Stewart confirmed the Club was looking to become increasingly involved with local charities and organisations. In response Mayor Lisa expressed her pleasure at receiving the Honorary Membership and that she too looks forward to a close relationship with the Club and its activities.

27 August 2018:  Boot Sale a Great Success

The August Bank Holiday Boot sale raised over £1300 for the charities supported by Marlborough and District Rotary Club.  This was an excellent total especially considering the number of other alternative attractions available in the locality.  Contributions from the sellers pitch fees, the sale of bacon butties and coffees, the generous donations to the buckets and the sale from Rotary’s own stall all contributed significantly.

The day started at 6am for the early bird Rotarians, setting up the parking area, the signage and the refreshment tent, not to mention their own stall. Way before they were finished at 6:30am the first of the sellers arrived to set out their stalls and then soon afterwards the early buyers arrived to snap up the bargains.  By 8am the field was full of boots and the first of the mainstream buyers arrived with a steady stream of cars disgorging their occupants to wander amongst the boots and to enjoy a bacon sandwich with their coffee.  By 10am the sale reached peak numbers and high activity was seen all round.  And then after an hour or so, as if a signal had sounded, the numbers started declining, boaters started to pack their cars and by noon all was quite, except for the Rotarians clearing up the field. 

Thank you to all who supported the event, sellers and buyers, contributing to the excellent total raised.   

Our next Car Boot Sale will be May Bank Holiday Monday 2019, Same Place, Same Time.

8 August 2018:  Marlborough Boules Team back to Winning Way

Marlborough Rotary’s exploits in the District 1100 Boules League continues to be varied.  Having won convincingly four weeks ago against Royal Wootton Basset B Team they lost their next game badly so tonight’s game against Royal Wootton Bassett Town was in the balance. Would it revive fortunes and morale or would it serve to show that the win was a flash in the pan. 

Led convincingly by Gerry Hooper and following the inspiration of maestro Jeremy Zabell the team managed to win two of the games by large margins. Although they did lose the other five games the games were tight and the margins were small so that overall Marlborough came out match winners with 21 points to 18. 

So on to the next match with renewed confidence and vigour.

6 August 2018: RYLA Candidate Entertains

Our 2019 RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) candidate Joe Petitt came to our meeting to talk about his experiences on the week long course he recently attended with 39 others at the Forest of Dean Field Centre. 

The purpose of RYLA is to encourage the development of teamwork and leadership skills in young people who have the potential to be future community leaders.  

Joe’s well presented and interesting talk gave a blow by blow account of his week starting with explaining that his personal objective had been to be more motivated and to more articulate, especially when presenting to an audience.  The classroom training, the team work and social skills necessary to complete the field tasks set the teams and the general experiences were all appreciated and gave Joe a very positive feel for the course and the way it had benefitted him.   This all for him culminated in being comfortable in giving a presentation to the students, their parents and visiting Rotarians, in all over 200 people at the closing ceremony. 

4 August 2018:  Battle Proms Victorious Again

The 4th August promised to be a hot date for Rotarians, partners, family and friends who ventured to Highclere Castle for the 100th performance of the Battle Proms.  

Once again organised by Gerry Hooper and supported by Jeremy and Alison Zabell the intrepid forward party arrived early and camped under the trees for their picnic to ensure that they entered the site early to grab the best pitch, at the front near the stage and the horses.  After two hours the gates were opened and the recvellers floods in to take ownership of their places. Once in place the task is to keep others off until the remained of the party arrived. In the early hours this proved little problem but as time progressed and the field rapidly filled pressure was brought to bear on all sides. Gerry, Jeremy and Alison brought their expertise to bear and held their ground until the reinforcements arrived to claim their positions. 

Soon drinking and eating commenced, as may be seen from some of the photos some seemed to imbibe in excess, but thety claimed it was a long hot afternoon.  The performances started with exercise in horsemanship, followed by songs from a duet,  then an exciting display by the Parachute Regiment display team, the Red Devils, before the main concert began.   Soon we were being thrilled by a flying display by the “Grace” Spitfire which stirred many a heart.  The evening progressed with some excellent music including the traditional 1812 Overture with attendant cannon fire and fireworks.  After the interval there were traditional songs, in which the audience joined with gusto plus a magnificent closing firework display.

Then it was back to the cars and try to exit the site as four thousand cars tried to do the same thing simultaneously.  It gave time to reflect on an excellent evening.

3 August 2018: Rotarians and Partners Bowled Over

Twenty Rotarians and partners were joined by members of ’41 Club’  and partners for an evening of bowls, courtesy of Pewsey Bowls Club.

Divided into three rinks with eight players each the evening competition began. There was a wide diversity of talent on show and the organiser, Jack Torrens had endeavoured to spread it around to equalise the teams.  There were some exceptional displays of luck during the evening as well as a small degree of  incompetence and this combined with alack of knowledge of the rules provided an entertaining and social evening. 

After what seemed like an eternity play was clued to halt so that the bar could be visited. The winning team i..e the one with the most points, was declared and its captain, Martin Couchman, graciously accepted the plaudits from the other teams, most of which wondered how he managed to get 14 points when they had managed only half that total.

But the competition was soon forgotten as good drink, some fine food and entertaining banter finished the evening off in fine style. 

30 July 2018: The Stroke Association Explained

31 Rotarians and partners met to hear a very interesting and informative talk by Sarah Miller, the local Service Development Manager from the Stroke Association.  (Pictured here with our new President Stewart Dailly)   

Sarah explained that she had started her career in the theatre before having an epiphany in New York, when she decide to give up the theatre and take up a career in nursing.   From nursing came the move to the Stroke Association, where she has been for the past seven years.

Sarah told the audience that every five minutes in the UK someone has a serious stroke, and three quarters of those are people over 65, very much the age group of her audience of the evening.  But that still leave s a substantial number of younger people experiencing strokes, the youngest having been a baby still in the womb. 

She explained that the FAST  acronym (Facial (weakness), Arm (weakness), Speech (problems),  Time (to call 999) is all important for anyone who sees some one they suspect of having a stroke as early treatment is essential.  

The Stroke Association main objectives and use of funds are to support research into the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation from strokes and to provide support to the carers of stroke sufferers.  Much more information can be obtained from their website.

Sarah mentioned the great support provide by Rotary throughout the country for their “Know Your Blood Pressure” day. Getting people to know their blood pressure is essential  as high blood pressure is big indicator of the potential for strokes and can easily be cured.  

Other factors we were told that increased the incidence of strokes included excessive drinking, eating and being overweight, features that had many of the audience staring resolutely at the ceiling or floor.

The evening continued with a lively question and answer session before Jeremy Zabell brought the evening to a close with a heartfelt the Vote of Thanks 

23 July 2018: Rotarians show their love of Chocolate

9 July 2018:  Innovative and Exquisite Furniture from a local Designer/Craftsman

4 July 2018:  Boules Team Reverse Fortunes and Achieve Historic Win

2 July 2018:  A New Presidential Year and an Inspiartional Talk

This, the first meeting in July, commenced with the Presidential Handover, with Stewart Dailly taking over the reigns and regalia from Cedric Hollingsworth.  Stewart then presented the President Elect chains of office to Martin Luxford.  Soon the changing of the guard was all over and the main business of the evening could commence. 

This proved to be a very interesting talk by Roy Woods, of Newbury Rotary Club on the charity in which he takes a very active part, Map Action.   He described how the charity works alongside the United Nations and other aid providers supporting humanitarian aid in all sorts of national and international disasters, both natural, such as earthquakes and cyclones, and more recently assisting with the refugee crisis in the Mediterranean and sub Saharan Africa and also the ebola outbreaks . In all they have attended 80 disasters in the 15 years since their formation. Their mode of operation is to provide immediate response arriving at the scene within 24 to 36 hours and setting up their base. 

Roy told the meeting that the best aid is determined by the needs on the ground i.e. it is pulled in rather than the remote organisations deciding what to send, and often getting it wrong. Map Action seeks to answer those questions of When? and Where? by computer mapping of what is happening on the ground. It supports the other charities at the scene by giving them these visual aids of what is happening, e.g in the Nepal earthquake disaster they at first mapped where the majority of people had been killed, so that aid could be focused to those locations.  

Roy concluded his talk by explaining that Action Aid manages all of their work with a permanent staff of 12 and 80 unpaid volunteers and a total annual budget of £800,000. The meeting noted this was exceptionally economical compared to many other charities. 

After questions Edward Ferguson gave the Vote of Thanks

27 June 2018:  M&DRC Boules Team Continue their Losing Run

26 June 2018:  Kidz Out Cards and the 100 Club Rewards

Thank you cards have been received from some of the children from local Marlborough and Pewsey schools who Marlborough & District Rotary Club supported on this years Kids Out trip to Longleat.  

The trip is organised by Rotary Districts and many disadvataged children from all over the west of England enjoyed the day out together with their teachers and carers.

Also at the meeting of 25 June the “Big Prize” 100 Club Draw took place, with one of the (annoyingly) regular winners once again scooping the jackpot of £75 

25 June 2018:  The Awards Continue

As reported for last week’s meeting Gerry Hooper has been awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship, the most prestigious award in Rotary.  Last night President Cedric presented Rotarian Gerry Hooper with his medal to go with the certificate he received last week.  And who is the important person that looks as if he's just had the cream?

Also at last night's meeting the Rotarian of the Year Award was made to Tony Green for outstanding services in finding excellent speakers, despite the non-appearance of the one due last night. (To be fair it was the speaker who was at fault)

18 June 2018:  Gerry Awarded Paul Harris Fellowship and Club Assembly hears from President Elect Stewart

The Club Assembly Meeting was graced with the presence of District Governor Elect (for 2018/19) Judy Powell.  Despite our honoured guest the highlight of the evening, and indeed possibly the year, was the much deserved award a Paul Harris Fellowship to Gerry Hooper.  There was general acclamation that Gerry was most deserving of the honour as he is always at the forefront of “doing stuff” for Rotary, from running boot sales, organising posters, running the social events, not to mention his year as President when he worked incredibly hard.

President Elect then proceed to explain to the assembled Rotarians his plans for 2018/19 year, his ideas for changing the club in some of its set ways, of increasing membership and enhancing publicity. He advised his main team of committee chairmen of Martin Luxford as President Elect and Community/Vocational, Gerry Hooper for Social, Jack Torrens for International and Paul Cowan for Membership. 

Judy Powell responded to Stewart, bringing greetings from the District President and continued by agreeing that reversing the trend of declining membership is incredibly important and require innovation.  Internationally the big Rotary Project is still the eradication of Polio although there has been temporary setback in that a suspected new case has occurred in Venezuela.

President Cedric concluded the meeting by thanking Judy for her presence and contribution and wishing her safe journey home.  

11 June 2018:  AGM Completed in Record Time

President Cedric Hollinsworth set the pace for future presidents by completing the AGM by 20:45, and that included having the meal.

Stewart daily was duly noted to be elevated to President for the next year following Cedric’s decision to stand down and take up the soon to be vacated Treasurers role. The incumbent, Martin Couchman, having recently been elevated to the dizzy heights of the Golf Committee and then quickly on to Senior Captain designate had reluctantly decided that, after many years of sterling service as Treasurer he should devote his full attention to the new challenge.

Our own “Very Important Person” Peter Waine decided to stand again as Secretary whilst Martin Luxford put up his hand to be President Elect (President for 2019/20), thus filing an important gap in our succession planning.

Honorary Auditors and District Council Reps were voted in on the nod and the Club voted to appoint the current Mayor of Marlborough an annual Honorary Membership of our Rotary Club.  

And then it was all over, the Rotary Toast given, glasses drained and off home early!

31 May 2018:  Boot Sale Generates a Magnificent Total for Charities

28 May 2018 Weather Doesn't Dampen Car Boot Enthusiasm

Eighty keen boot sellers arrived at the Marlborough Common in the early morning mist to set up their stalls. Equally keen Rotarians had already been there establishing  the site and making sure the welcome hot coffee and bacon rolls were ready to warm the slightly cold and damp inner persons.

 

Soon the first of the buyers arrived and by 9 o'clock commerce was in full swing. Peak buying seemed to happen at about 10 o'clock when the volume of buyers cars arriving almost overwhelmed the parking assistants. 

By the close the sausages and bacon had all been sold, many cups of coffee and tea had been consumed and most of the buyers seemed happy with their sales.

The donations and profits of today's event will all go to charities supported by Marlborough & District Rotary.

Many thanks to all of you, sellers and buyers, who supported this event. We hope to see you on August Bank Holiday for our next Car Boot Sale

20 May 2018: Sun Shines on Gerrycan Lunches

30 April 2018: Insights of a Political Correspondent

Elinor Goodman entertained the assembled Rotarians with her talk entitled "Maggie, John, Tony and Me"

Elinor gave a very insightful talk around her time a political editor of Channel 4 News describing her experience of the Iron Lady and how the Falklands provided a turning point in Mrs Thatcher’s political career. John Major’s endless tussle with the 1922 committee, and the challenging relationship between Tony and Gordon.  

The former journalist described her fortunate journey from secretary to political correspondent, crumpets in Mr Blair’s fireplace and the day she forgot where she was and signed off as “Elinor Goodman, Channel Four News, somewhere beginning with B”. 

28 April 2018: Wintery Weather Dampens Rotary's Spring Fayre

22 April 2018:  Letter of Thanks from School for Mock Interviews Support

During the week commencing 10 March 2018 Students from St John’s School Marlborough gain experience of being interviewed by external business people. Rotarians have assisted in this exercise for many years and this year was no exception. Martin Luxford made the arrangements and the Rotarians who took part found it a very worthwhile contribution and were impressed by the maturity of many of the students.  

Martin has just received a letter of thanks from the school and it is reprinted below.

Dear Martin,

I just wanted to thank you very much for your help last  week – the expertise and professionalism of all the volunteers was as always greatly appreciated, particularly with the wide range and variety of students at the school.  It is extremely kind of everyone to give up their valuable time and your feedback was really useful and will be passed back to both students and staff.  I also am extremely grateful for the time you spend pulling the volunteers together.

 

The students have been very positive about their experience – they thought it was really worthwhile being interviewed by someone they didn’t know and out of school.  The collective feedback was ‘Good practice for later in life and the experience of doing an interview. Learning your strengths and weakness. Getting feedback at the end, evaluating future ideas, developing social skills. Meeting somebody new, answering questions about yourself. Being asked questions you would not expect.’ 

 

However the success of the exercise was largely attributable to the skill and experience of the interviewers as well as your supportive feedback at the end of their interview.  Please could you pass on my thanks to all those involved.

Once again thank you for your support and wish you a Happy Easter. 

Best wishes

Fiona.

 

Mrs F Havill

Careers & Work Related Manager

St John’s

Marlborough

13 -15 April 2018:  Rotarians in Minden: The Facts

Five intrepid Rotarians set off for Heathrow  from their Hotel last Friday morning for an early flight to Hannover. Due to the exalted status of one of the group in BA’s Executive Club, check in through First Class and Fast Track security enabled time for breakfast in the Business Class Lounge, before taking the exercise of a stroll to the other end of the terminal to board a BA cattle truck for the drive to the plane.

In Hannover our transport an 8 seater long wheel base Mercedes V class people carrier was waiting. By Saturday under Paul’s expert guidance we had worked out how to access the rear row of seats without dismantling half the vehicle.

The weather was very English , pouring with rain, as we headed off down the autobahn , with Rex at the wheel,  to Petershagen, where we stayed in the Hotel owned by a relative of Ulli Mehlman .

Lunch had been arranged in Minden , and we were hosted by a charming octogenarian Rotarian, Volker Schafe , at an Indian restaurant ( something of a rarity in Germany). Renata Mehlman accompanied us, and said how she loved the Goa Balti. Ulli does not like Indian food so he went off to prepare for the evening event. After lunch we were shown around the Minden Cathedral and its treasury by Volker, which has items dating back 1200 years, before returning for some refreshments in Petershagen.

Friday evening was the night of the main attraction, a concert by the Bundeswehr Musikkorps, the premier army band of the German Army, which has in excess of 60 musicians, who are all also combat medics. This band is the only non-UK military band ever to be invited to perform Beating Retreat in front of the Queen on Horse Guards Parade, which they did to celebrate the 200 anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo. The music was superb and varied from Jubel, (includes the tune for our National anthem) Wagner (Lohengrin , which includes the wedding march “here comes the bride “) to “ The Sound of Ireland”, which included “Auld Langs Syne “ !!!, and the soundtrack from “Two Steps to Hell “, in addition to some rousing German marches.

Minden Rotary had sold c 900 tickets and the event raised c 16,000€, for a charity promoting maths and technical education.

We were treated to a post- concert reception where we met most of the other 71 members of Minden- Porta Wesphalica Rotary and partners together with local dignitaries.  It was great to meet so many young Rotarians.

On return to our hotel , all was in darkness so we were deprived of a nightcap, (clearly the staff knew about our late night drinking from previous visits and had chosen to take an early night).

Saturday dawned fine and now with the President at the wheel, complaining about the lack of power from the engine,  we set off for a museum and castle about 30 km away.  The museum featured mechanical music machines and slot machines from the late 19^th century until the late 20^th century, when modern electronic gadgetry took over. There were over 200 exhibits including a wide range of Juke Boxes and many were operated for us by the museum staff. The Engineers in the party were fascinated by the complexity of the various mechanisms, and nearly two hours were spent looking at the exhibits, before adjourning for coffee and cake, as our calorie intake was clearly below par by German standards. A stroll around the castle grounds, and the English Garden enabled the digestive juices to operate before returning to Petershagen . The bar was open but Paul was waylaid by another guest who eventually had to be escorted away by the burly chef. (there is obviously more to be told - ed.)

In the evening we were invited to an early supper at the Lindgart Hotel (formerly the Holiday Inn) by the owner, who is also a Rotarian, and he insisted on plying us with drinks and then making us eat a fillet steak. A short walk took us to the Minden Theatre , where together with President Helmut , Peter Meyer, Ulli and their wives, and Volker we saw a Buddy Holly Tribute Show, which involved lots of audience participation by clapping and standing, (all very Germanic). We felt at home as the average age of the audience was well north of 60.

After the performance it was back to Volker’s  penthouse apartment for drinks and a light supper. Volker has the most superb apartment, converted from a former Italian restaurant, and it is about the size of the first floor of the Marlborough Golf Club.

Fine Bordeaux, Burgundy and excellent German wines appeared, which caused the President some distress because, as the driver, he had to stick to water. Finally we made our farewells at 1.00am to return for a nightcap in Petershagen. (the bar was open this time as the hotel was hosting a 40^th birthday party) so Gerry finally obtained his Jaegermeister and the rest of us had schnapps, to round off a long but incredibly varied day.

Sunday it rained as we headed back to the airport, planning how we would match the Minden Rotarian’s hospitality when they next visit us.”

21 April 2018:  Know Your Blood Pressure Day in Marlborough

Once again Rotarians gathered at Marlborough’s Jubilee Centre to offer to measure the blood pressure of the local residents passing holiday makers.  

The “Know Your Blood Pressure Day”  is organised by the Stroke Association and is aimed at making the general public aware of their blood pressure. People with high blood pressure have increased chances of suffering stroke and as a condition that is quite easily managed the sooner they know the better. High blood pressure does not manifest itself in any way that is obvious to the sufferer until it is too late.  Hence the importance of measuring it regularly, especially if the person is border line case. 

The Rotary spotters were out on the pavement encouraging people to take five minutes to have their blood pressure measured by their colleagues inside, using simple wrist worn monitor.  Being accosted by the pavement team was enough to raise the blood pressure of the faint hearted. Fortunately the calm professionalism of the inside team soon allayed any fears and blood pressures returned to normal before the tests commenced.  

Using guidelines from the Stroke Association the “patients” were either given the “all clear” or recommended to see their doctor, either within month or more urgently if their blood pressure was excessive.  Over the years many local residents have taken the opportunity to have their blood pressure measured in friendly surroundings and this year was no exception.

16 April 2016:  Gold from the time of Stonehenge

David Dawson, the Director of the Wiltshire Museum in Devizes gave a very interesting talk last Monday evening entitled “Gold from the time of Stonehenge”.  

David reviewed three different burial mounds in the area from Stonehenge to Manton and the timescales over which they were built.  He described the objects found buried with the people and it was evident that a high level of craftsmanship was used for these valuable objects.  He explained the symbolism of the various objects, such as gold encrusted dagger and a ceremonial mace. All indicated that the occupants of the mound had been important in their community and had been wealthy. 

The Vote of Thanks was given by Rotarian Rex Sandbach

7 April 2018:  Rotarians Collect for Marie Curie

Last Saturday 12 Rotarians and 7 Volunteers were again persuaded by Rex Sandbach to again don their rather silly hats and gather on Marlborough High Street and at the Co-op in Pewsey to join in the Great Daffodil Appeal, Marie Curie’s largest annual fundraising campaign. The vivid yellow hats and tabards and cheery daffodil pins provided a welcome contrast with the rather grey skies.

 

The Marie Curie organisation is clearly dear to many peoples’ hearts – many of those donating have a connection through shared experiences.

 

At time of writing the full total collected hasn’t been finalised but we hope that the amount equals or exceeds that of recent collections. If you’d like to be involved in future collections please get in touch.

News Flash:  Collection total reaches  £1174 

24 March 2018: Club Receives Thanks from Local Organisations

15 March 2018:  Morgan Factory Visit Great Success

Last Thursday morning 8 Rotarians and partners met at the golf club car park to start their journey to Great Malvern and a much anticipated list to the Morgan factory.

Arriving in good time the party, led by Tony Green, feasted on sausage rolls, pasties and coffee to get up the energy for the forthcoming two hour trip around all sections of the Morgan manufacturing process, from initial woodworking in ash to make the body shapes through the “tin bashing” shops, engine and gearbox assembly, upholstery and trim to the finished painting and detailing. It was fascinating journey through the old skills of coach building a timeless motor car. Our guide “David” an owner of a Morgan Plus 4 showed great knowledge of the marque and helped make the trip most interesting. 

The group saw all models being made from the Morgan 4/4, through the Plus 4, the 6cylinder Roadster, a special final edition of the Morgan Plus 8 as well as the Aero 8 and the new three wheeler. The visit finished with a visit to the museum which housed some of the rarer versions of the marque.

Soon it was time to load up into our more prosaic transport and head sedately back to Marlborough. Thanks to Tony for his excellent arrangements and commiserations to the Rotarians who all missed an excellent day out.

8 January 2018: Rotarians Hear from a Unique Designer

Stewart Dailly, President Elect, conducting the first meeting of the club for the New Year  introduced guest speaker Fred Baier from Pewsey, who presented a fabulous talk on his life long work making furniture mostly in the baroque style. He began by describing his young life in Hull where by his own admittance he was not good at the three ‘R’s and was far more inclined to art, which he would follow at college.  He subsequently spent several years with a hippy group where his ideas would challenge the imagination.  His designs of the most unusual furniture are found in museums world wide, which Fred displayed vividly with many photographs.  In the vote of thanks Paul Cowan said Fred’s imaginative creativity allowed him to design and finish unique pieces of furniture to an exceptionally high standard. 

18 December 2017: Christmas Party at the Golf Club

Rotarians, partners and guests gathered at the Golf Club for their Christmas Party. President and the evening’s Master of Ceremonies, Cedric Hollisworth opened the festivities by thanking the social committee for organising the event and arranging the entertainment, the guitar playing Gauloise Brothers from Bath.  The guests quickly entered the spirit of the evening, conversation flowed, crackers cracked, poppers popped and the golf club provided their usual excellent fare. All to soon the Gauloise Brothers had finished their set, the coffee and chocolates had been consumed, the wine bottles were empty and taxis were waiting by the front door. An excellent evening had come to an end and the Rotarians and guests went out into the cold night and headed home. 

3 December 2017: Chris Jensen Entertains

13 November 2017:  Rotary Welcomes New Member

A warm welcome was extended to Chris Jensen when he became a Rotarian at our recent meeting, on Monday 13 November 2017.

During the ceremony President Cedric, asked Chris’ proposing Rotarian, Paul Cowan, to formally introduce Chris to club members. Paul told us that Chris was born in Newcastle and after school he studied media studies and eventually came into banking, at one point in his career he worked for Nationwide.  Just recently he has set up his own financial services business.  Chris is married to Rachel and they have two sons Oliver and Harry and they live in Lockeridge.

President Cedric then presented the Rotary pin and membership pack to Chris who, in response,  thanked everyone for welcoming him into Rotary saying that he considered it was a genuine honour to be a member in such wonderful company. 

12 November 2017:  President Cedric Hollinsworth Lays Wreath

Rotary President Cedric Hollinsworth attended the Remembrance Ceremony at the Marlborough War Memorial and laid the wreath on behalf of the Rotary Club of Marlborough and District

6 November 2017:  Stellar Speakers Educate and Entertain

30 October 2017: A Busy Night at Rotary Brings Surprises All Round

29 October 2017: Father Christmas Booking Site Live

12 October 2017:  "This is Rotary" Event

24 guests attended the evening at the Golf Club and were welcomed by Club President Cedric Hollinsworth, who gave an overview of Rotary before going on to outline some of the activities undertaken by Marlborough.

Richard Purdon, the current District Extension Officer and Immediate Past District Governor, then gave an account of his personal involvement in Rotary, and told guests how Rotary has changed to reflect modern lifestyles, with no rigid attendance rules and flexibility in terms of meeting format and frequency.

Guests took the opportunity to look at displays featuring Youth activities and overseas aid including the full contents of a Water Aid Box.

The evening was rounded off by Paul Cowan, the chairman of the Membership Committee, who talked about individual activities, and urged the guests to consider if they felt able to contribute in some way to the work of Rotary.

10 October 2017: Rotary Donates Funds to St Mary's

During a visit to the newly opened St Mary’s Primary School in George Lane Rotary President Cedric Hollinsworth presented a cheque for £2000 to Head Teacher Ann Schwodler. The money was a donation towards IT equipment for the school.  Ann explained that although funding had been provided for the new school buildings none had been provided to upgrade equipment and much of it is in need of upgrade, especially in IT. 

The equipment shown in the photograph is a new Interactive C touch board, which is state of the art teaching technology and which the funding helped to provide.

9 October 2017: The Story of Whatleys of Pewsey

Whatley’s in Pewsey was the subject of fellow Rotarian Paul Cowan’s subject talk at our meeting on Monday. Founded originally in Wootton Rivers and named Whatley and Hosier they moved then moved to Pewsey.   The foundry was successful in producing casting and many engineered items so that by 1900, with two furnaces in operation, the Company employed 120 people. 

Paul gave a detailed account of the ownership held between the two families.  The Hosier side of the business made milking machinery and milking parlour equipment whereas the Whatleys specialised in making water pumps, steam ploughs. In particular, Whatley’s produced huge miller wheels for use on the canal at that time which were to be seen for many years until electricity changed the scene completely.   

Concluding his account Paul described when the foundry ceased operation and the formation the Pewsey Heritage machinery museum  within the old foundry building.

2 October 2017:  Young Guests Thank Rotarians for Sponsorship

The club was pleased to welcome two young speakers on Monday evening, Josiah Hamilton and Amy Franczac, both of whom had been sponsored by the Club. 

Josiah had attended the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) and he described the benefits he had enjoyed during the week long course, especially how it had had improved his confidence in public speaking. He explained that the week started with the ‘iceberg’ game designed to enable all the participants to meet and break the ice with each other. He  told the audience about the many activities in which he participated, such as the the night walk where, with only map and compass, groups had to navigate through part of the Forest of Dean and of the building of a giraffe from paper mache.   In conclusion, Josiah thanked the club for organising his participation in RYLA.

 

Amy described her recent visit to Romania with Charities Abroad to help the children and babies in the poor conditions of the state children’s homes. She had volunteered and was accepted on but needed £1000 to participate so to help her achieve the target the Club had donated £300. Amy described the conditions she found in the homes and how, with other of students working with the charity, she helped re-decorate several rooms. One of her prime objectives was to teach English. which she carried out with the aid of an interpreter. During her second week she participated in a summer camp for the children.  A memorable talk which was much appreciated by her captivated audience. 

25 September 2017: Marlborough Mayor Accepts Honorary Membership

Marlborough Mayor, Mervyn Hall was guest of honour at our meeting on 25 September when he was awarded an Honorary Membership. 

In making the award President Cedric Hollinsworth remarked that the Club works very closely with the town council on several important events and the honorary membership was long overdue.  Mayor Mervyn Hall responded that he was most pleased to have been asked to become a member, adding that his evening had been most enjoyable and that he intended maintaining close relationships with the Club.