NEW!!!

ROTARY SATELLITE E-CLUB OF BARNARD CASTLE (TEESDALE)

LAUNCHED APRIL 2020

A group of dynamic, community-oriented people, networking together, to help the local community and those in need throughout the world.  Developed to accommodate the needs of potential Rotarians who are unable to commit to attending a regular weekly meeting.

For information contact: 

Secretary: Lesley Taylor at  rotarysatbc@gmail.com

or follow the Rotary Satellite e-club of Barnard Castle (Teesdale) on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TeesdaleRotarySatellite/?modal=admin_todo_tour

Ian Hodgson, 1946 - 2020

Rotarian Ian Hodgson, aged 74, died suddenly, in Barnard Castle, on March 22nd.

A biochemist, Ian had lived in the town for over 40 years and was known to many through his involvment in, and commitment to, several community groups.  Her joined the Rotary Club of Barnard Castle in February 1998 and, during his long and distingished service, undertook several senior roles which he performed with diligence, good humour and a dash of common sense.  He was made a Paul Harris Fellow - one of Rotary's highest awards - in recognition of the substantial contribution he made to the organisation and in 2002/03 undertook the role of club President.

Ian travelled widely through the Rotary Friendship Exchange programme and made long lasting friendships with fellow Rotarians from New England, Tennessee and Pennsylvania.  As one of those American friends said, "Ian's actions and involvement in the local community and internationally furthered Rotary's mission in building world understanding, goodwill and peace.  It is with Rotarians like Ian who demonstrated "Service Above Self" that helps our organization do good in the world".

In Barnard Castle, he will be remembered by many young musicians who, over the years, competed in the local heats of the Rotary Young Musician of the Year competition held at Barnard Castle School.  Supported by his wife, Christine, Ian ensured that this event ran smoothly and encouraged musicianship of the highest standard.

Ian was also something of an IT wizard and was webmaster for both the local Rotary club and for Rotary NE England.  His computer skills were also in demand from Teesdale U3A where he served variously as Chairman, Vice-Chairman and committee member.  He had been one of a small group of people who, in 2007, had established U3A in Barnard Castle.  During his membership, Ian helped found several interest groups - including one dealing with his main interest of photography.

His computer skills were always in demand by groups of often self-confessed technophobes. Latterly Ian became the main pillar of an iPad group, encouraging many novices and sharing skills with others; he could make an iPad sing and dance!

A kind and gentle man, Ian will be sorely missed by those who knew him.

Colin Dunnighan,

President Barnard Castle Rotary