Penzance Welcomes International Rotary Delegations Ahead of May Friendship Visit
Penzance is preparing to host an international celebration of Rotary friendship this spring, as President Giovanni Perialie’s long-held vision of strengthening cross-border connections becomes reality. Over the first three days of May, twenty-one visitors from Rotary clubs in France and Italy - linked symbolically by the line of St Michael - will arrive in West Cornwall for their first joint International Friendship Visit.
President Giovanni praised the “remarkable generosity and enthusiasm” shown by local members who have stepped forward to host guests, provide transport, and accompany the visiting Rotarians on tours and events. Special thanks were extended to Alan Wilson and Sue Home for their extensive preparation and coordination in the lead-up to the visit.
The programme will culminate in an International Friendship Dinner at the Tregenna Castle Hotel in St Ives, which will also serve as the 2026 Penzance Rotary President’s Night. Distinguished guests include the Mayor of Penzance, Rotary District Governor Sam Cross, and Assistant District Governor (IPDG) Tony Williams. President Giovanni said he is “very much looking forward to a great evening celebrating fellowship, service, and international goodwill.”
Senior Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) 1175 Update
Following last month’s report, three potential candidates for the RYLA 1175 programme have now been identified. Members have agreed in principle that Penzance Rotary will contribute up to £500 per candidate toward the £795 course fee.
The Club is now inviting the three prospects to formally put their names forward. Subject to Club Council approval, brief details of the candidates will be presented at the upcoming Business Meeting before applications are assessed by the RYLA team.
Each approved applicant must raise a minimum of £295 themselves before the end of May for their application to proceed. This year’s course runs from 28 June to 3 July at Brimpts Farm on Dartmoor.
RYLA remains one of Rotary’s most transformative youth programmes—an immersive week of leadership development, outdoor challenges, expert speakers, and teamwork designed to build confident, capable young adults aged 18–30. It is endorsed by local employers and offers lasting benefits for participants, Rotary clubs, and the wider community.
Penzance Rotary’s past RYLA successes include:
- Derek Thomas — who went on to become the local MP.
- Lottie Allen — horticultural student who became head gardener on St Michael’s Mount and later moved to Hidcote Manor.
- Kate Jamieson — local entrepreneur and artist.
Recent Speakers and Club Events
Thanks were offered once again to Nigel Rudd for arranging a series of engaging lunchtime talks.
Emily Drew of Paul Robinson Solicitors delivered a highly focused and well-received session on wills, powers of attorney, and estate planning—rarely have members been so attentive to every word.
After the Easter bank holiday break, Nigel hosted a light-hearted Easter Trivia Quiz, which proved surprisingly educational for many members.
Most recently, Laurie Stephenson spoke about the heartwarming work of FLIKKA, the donkey rescue centre near Mabe, highlighting the charity’s dedication to animal welfare and rehabilitation.
