Speaker at Oake Manor Golf Club

32 members and 2 guests (Trish Caller and Paul Townsend) were present.

In a talk entitled – No Stone Unturned, David Janes explained that rather than collect postcards or other souvenirs, he generally returned from holiday with a stone or other piece of rock which took his fancy. Some were just pretty, others, by their shape, reflected some aspect of the scenery or architecture of the place visited. Many examples were collected on Rotary trips over the decades, so the pictures he showed brought back memories to many of those present.

Club business:

Members are invited to support our team in “Call my Bluff” April 23rd.

Bill Tregillus reported that, thanks to support from new breakfast members as well as regulars from the old team, most of the key roles for Moonraker have been filled and the event is scheduled to go ahead on October 5th. We are still seeking more help in the basic infrastructure crew.

The two Taunton Rotary Clubs will again have adjacent stands at the Flower Show on Aug 2nd and 3rd. Members available on either date are encouraged to volunteer their services to man the stall or help with car parking.

There was a discussion about how best to recognise the services of Jill Byford who retires as manager of the Abbeyfield Home shortly. Gill has served in that role since its opening and has been key to its success over the years. Various views were expressed and it was decided to delegate a final decision to the Abbeyfield Committee.

Derek Bartaby reported that David Watkins has completed his chemotherapy but it will be some while before he is fully back to normal. David and Trudy wish to thank those members who have offered support in the past months.

Richard Austin reported briefly on the ongoing situation in S.E. Africa in the wake of Cyclone Idai. Members supported the proposal that £1,000 from our emergency fund should be shared equally between Shelter box and the Rotary GB&I Donations Trust which makes grants to Rotary projects working to rebuild communities in the long term.

The Ball Draw was won by Stephen Smith (not present) so another roll-over.

April 22nd – No meeting.

April 29th – SCCC – presentations to Somerset Sight and Taunton Opportunity Group.

DR Alison Brown Apologies to David Janes

May 8th. Breakfast meeting at the Stragglers – “The Work of the High Sheriff”.