PRESIDENT DAVID WYMER 2019 / 2020

I am a sad person but honest! On holiday, I often read Jeffrey Archer books and enjoy them! Very rarely are they thought provoking but in a recent read I came across this line. “He couldn’t afford to join the local golf club, and was unlikely to be invited to be a Rotarian”
I think this sums up many people’s opinion of Rotary. The name “Rotary” has been there since day one and this has resulted in a continued perception of an elitist organisation that it probably was at one time. Oh, I would love for it be re-named to something identifiable to the general public but, as it’s a worldwide organisation, I know that I will not get my wish! These days, Rotary is not elitist and will not become so in my year as President.
Well, now I’ve got that off my chest, let’s be positive as I look forward to my year as President. Clitheroe Rotary is heavily involved in matters local, national and international. This will continue. “Do Gooders” has been an expression with negative vibes but I think “Do Gooding” is something to strive for and be proud of. It can be achieved by litter picking locally, renovating facilities such as the castle bandstand and park benches, even cleaning road signs indicating you are entering Clitheroe. Nationally, we support youth projects involving music, public speaking, cooking and many more. Internationally, we financially contribute to the eradication of world polio programme and, in times, of world disasters promptly set up collections, to buy lifesaving and life enhancing gear such as Shelterboxes.
Personally, I would like us to get involved in a large project abroad, in conjunction with other Rotaries, so watch this space!
We are always on the look-out for new members. Unlike Jeffrey Archer’s perception of needing to be invited, we are always open to people who would like to find out more about us. We meet on Thursdays at the Rose and Crown at 12.30 for lunch, so why not give us a visit! Just send an email to me at david.wapper@btinternet.com and we’ll arrange to welcome you! Our lunches are informal and you would not require a dinner suit or even a tie!
Furthermore, we now have a group comprising mainly people of working age. The group is flexible in both name and nature. It meets, generally, once a fortnight on different nights, maybe in a pub, a restaurant, the last two being Greek and Indian, or a Social Club for a Beetle Drive. Fun and fellowship are priorities but, always in our mind, is the need to raise money and help others. So contact us and help us help others and have a good time as well!   

For information about Rotary in the Ribble Valley, including the latest flexible way of doing Rotary (perfect for busy people) click here