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Home | Press Reports | International Night 27th February 2012

Mon Feb 27th 2012
Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, his wife, Roykaew, Godfrey Smith, and President John Orbell

International Night is always a highlight in any Rotary Club Calendar, and this year proved to be no exception, when The Rotary Club of March held it’s event at the Conservative Club, Creek Road, on Monday 27th February. As this years International Rotary Conference is being held in Bangkok, it was felt fitting that Thailand would be the theme for the March clubs evening. Guest of Honour was Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas and his attractive wife, Roykaew, from the Royal Thai Embassy in London The Dinning Room was brightly decorated with the respective flags of the United Kingdom and Thailand, and many Pennants given by visitors from around the World. These were added to, with one from Timaru, South Island, New Zealand, presented by Murrey and Judith Purvis, who are visiting Great Britain. Welcoming the Honoured Guests, Overseas visitors, Rotarians from other clubs, Lions, members and friends, President John Orbell invited all to enjoy the a fine 4 course meal, prior to the actual presentation by Dr. Nitithanprapas, or ‘Niti’ as he prefers to be addressed. Intoduced by George White, Niti gave an audio, visual presentation on the historical, social, political, and economic affairs in Thailand from the 19th Century to the present day. First however, he paid tribute to the help and assistance in the form of Shelter Boxes sent by Rotary Clubs, including March, when the devastating Tsunami hit the Country. He enthused about investment by Britain in his land, and visa versa. While Thai companies have substantial holdings in London Hotels, the Steel Industry, and John West Foods it also came as a supprise to learn that the most British of our traditional brand names, Triumph Motorcycles have three factories in Thailand. With the population 96% Buddhist, Thailand welcomes over eight hundred thousand visitor from the U.K annually. Questions on the ‘threat’ of China, deforestation and progress on the recovery from the floods, reflected the interest of this truly International Evening. Godfrey Smith gave a comprehensive Vote of Thanks, drawing upon his own experiences as a tourist. Prior to the Final Toast, The President presented Roykaew with a beautiful bouquet, to the general approbation of the assembled guests.