About us

 The New President for 2023-24 -MIKE SARTAIN

 

 

We will collect and recycle your tree if you give a donation to Weston Hospice. Just go on line to the address on the poster or use your mobile to click on the code. Put the tree outside your home and we do the rest - part of Mendip Rotary service to the community.

 

 

 

PRESENTATION OF A CHEQUE TO THE ALZEIMERS SOCIETY 

President John Mander and Past President Jim Skinner present a cheque for £4000 to Sian Johnson and Pam Brewster which was raised during Jim's year of office. Sian was delighted and explained that there are 9300 people in Somerset living with dementia and many have little or no support. These funds will help enormously and provide  excellent help for those who turn to the Society for practical advice, emotional help and much more - the society provided such help over 4.3m times lnationwide last year which which is a staggering figure and as a club we are very happy to use our funds to help people in Somerset who find it hard to cope with Alzeimers.

 

 

 

 

Club members help to choose young photographer award in Space Competition

 

 

President Elect Jim Skinner presenting the winner of The Space Nature Photography Competition for Mental Health Week, Tian Mazi Thomas with his prize in the 4 - 9 years category. Three of our members having made up part of the judging panel. Jim also presented the runner up Henry Munday with his prize. 

 

May 75 Club Draw

The May 75 Club draw was carried out by Mike who is the landlord of the White Horse Public House in Mark. The winning number is 68. The draw was organised to raise funds for charity during the pandemic when traditional fund raising events were cancelled.

 

 

 

April 75 Club Draw

 

 

The April 75 Club draw was carried out by Lewis Bull and Percy Foord from OnPoint Barbers in Cheddar Gorge. The winning number is 43. The draw was organised to raise funds for charity during the pandemic when traditional fund raising events were cancelled.

 

Club members erect the greenhouse and shed at the Space allotment

 

 

As part of the ongoing commitment, Club members helped to erect a shed, greenhouse and potting table for the Space Charity at their allotment in Cheddar.

 

 

The Club thanks those who stayed at home during the lockdown

The Club has amended the stay at home signs to thank all those who helped to reduce the spread of Covid 19 by staying at home. The Club appreciates the assistance given by Cheddar Signs and the local Companies who sponsored the original signage.

 

 

 

 

March 75 Club Draw

The March 75 Club charity draw was carried out my Val Maunder, assisted my Jim Warnell. The draw was started during the pandemic to ensure the Club could continue to support local charities at this time. W C Maunders have always supported the Rotary Club of Mendip with our fund raisng efforts for charity and the Club is grateful for this support. The winning number was 65.

 

 

 

February 75 Club Draw

 

 

The February draw for the 75 Club was carried out at the local business MAWAGRI. They have assisted the Club by giving discounts on the items purchased from them for the Space Allotment. The winning number was 37.

 

 

 

 

The Club continues to support the vaccination effort

 

 

The Club continues to liase with the local GP Practices to provide transport to the vaccination centres for vunerable adults in its catchment area.

 

The Fencing is Erected for The Space Allotment

 

 

 

Members of the Club and volunteers from the Space Charity erected the new fence around the Space Allotment in Cheddar. It has been erected to ensure rabbits are unable to get into the allotment to damage the produce. They were assisted by Jason Collins from JC Landscape. The fence posts were obtained from Maw Agri who gave a  discount to the charitable cause.

 

World Understanding and Peace Day 23/02/2021

District 1190 Cumbria & Lancashire are hosting the UK segment of the event titled "The Sun Never Sets in Rotary". The event will start and finish in D3232 India, having gone across the 6 continents. Our own Mike Webb is one of the speakers, in what promises to be an interesting event.

 

 

 

Rotarians transport vunerable people to vaccination centres

As part of the Clubs efforts during the pandemic, Rotarians Peter Wright and Mike Hiles are involved in the transportation of vunerable adults for their Covid 19 vaccinations. They are also involved contacting people by telephone who are experiencing dificulties during this time including non rotarians through the Cheddar Coronavirus Group.

 

 

Club members prepare raised beds for The Space

 

 

 

Members of the Club and volunteers from "The Space Charity" were preparing raised beds in preparation for planting later in the year. A trench was also dug to erect fencing around the project. This will be completed later. The activity provided good fellowship in these unusual times. All work was done in a Covid secure fashion and a Risk Assessment was prepared.

The Rotary Club of Mendip has chosen “The Space” as this year’s charity. The Space supports local young people 4-18 years who are suffering mental health issues, which have increased during the current pandemic. The Club is specifically supporting the Community Wellbeing Garden in the Cheddar allotments. The garden will provide opportunities for children, young people, and adults in our community to mix socially, make friends and connect with others to improve their mental well-being.

This is part of a practical solution to help those families and individuals in Cheddar who, for a variety of reasons, are struggling to cope in the society in which we live.

 

 

Local Businessman does the January draw

 

Loca lbusinessman Matt Mayo of Cheddar Tyre Supplies picked the January winning number for the 75 Club. This is the Clubs fundraising efforts during the pandemic. Many thanks Matt.

 

 

 

 

Rotary Foundation Team Award

Rotary Foundation has received the highest rating from Charity Navigator, an independent evaluator of charities in the U.S., for the 13th  consecutive year. Thus establishing the Rotary Foundation in the one percent of organisations to do this. The Foundation earned the recognition for adhering to sector best practices and executing its mission in a financially efficient way, demonstrating both strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency. The rating reflects Charity Navigator's assessment of how the Rotary Foundation uses donations, sustains its programs and services, and practices good governance and openness. Mendip Rotarian Mike Webb is a member of this team.

Speaker evening The Mayflower

 

 

Rotarian George English from the Rotary Club of Kilmarnock gae a talk on the Mayflower. This was the ship in 1620 that carried the Pilgrims from Plymouth England to P{lymouth America where they established the first New England colony.

 

 

New member inducted on zoom

 

 

In a first for the Club Tom Elson was inducted into Rotary by Club President Ceri at the first virtual meeting of the year. Tom is an ex Round Tabler from Ealing. Members are looking forward to meeting Tom in person when we can meet again.

 

The Club updates the Stay at Home Signs

Following the added restrictions that came into force, the Club have modified the numerous advisory road signs that were installed locally last spring. We now reinforce the message to remind visitors and local residents that the risks are real. Stay at Home protect key workers.

 

Santa picks the December prize draw

Santa draws number 63 for the December draw. Thanks to the Cheddar Fire brigade for brightening up Christmas with their Santa float.

 

The November 75 Club draw

 

 

The November draw for the  75 Club was made by Cobbs of Cheddar. The winning number was 58. Half of the proceeds from the draw are donated to charities.

 

Supporting Make Cheddar Festive event

 

 

Members of the Club were out deliverying leaflets in support of the Cheddar Artists in their efforts to Make Cheddar Festive in these unusual times. The event is supported by the Chambers of Commerce, Cheddar Parish Council and Sedgemoor District Council.

 

 

 

 

Window Wonderland in the Cheddar Valley

Cheddar Arts and The Art Quarter are endevouring to create an uplifting activity for Christmas. They are asking businesses and people within the Cheddar Valley to put a festive display in their windows and "Make Cheddar Festive". The event is supported by the Cheddar Parish Council, Chambers of Commerce and Sedgemoor District Council. To collect your free window display click and collect is available from The Art Quarter, The Lippiat.
 

 

 

 

Pandemic signs vandelised

 

 

One of the signs erected by the Rotary Club of Mendip to remind people of the the need to protect the local community during the current pandemic has been vandelised and removed. Thanks to the staff at Cheddar Caves the sign was recovered and can be repaired and reused.

 

Wreath Laying on Rememberance Sunday

Club President Ceri Davies laying a wreath on behalf of the Club in Cheddar to remember all those who have fallen in conflicts.

 

 

Polio Eradication

The Club has placed a display in Cheddar Library to highlight World Polio Day 24th October 2020. The Club has been involved in Rotary,s drive to eradicate Polio from the beginning. Rotarian John Lane who was a well known business man in Cheddar was the original treasurer for the Rotary International Britain and Ireland polio initiative, with the monies raised being administred from Cheddar.

Young Citizen Award

 

 

 

Do you know someone under 21 living in the Cheddar Valley who is an inspiration to others, perhaps providing extra help to family, friends and neighbours in our community during the Covid crisis, or providing help and support to charitable causes? It may be someone who deserves to have their contribution recognised by our community and who perhaps goes the extra mile to make a difference to the lives of others. If so, you could Mendip Young Citizen Award to celebrate the impact they make. Consent from a parent or guardian will be needed for the nomination of anyone under age 18. Nominations close on 31st December with results in January. The winner receives a cash prize of £100 plus £100 to donate to the charity of their choice. Other nominations may receive a certificate of merit.

75 Club Launched

 

 

As a result of the Coronavirus pandemic the Clubs ability to generate funds for good causes has been reduced. The Club will celebrate it's 75th charter in October 2020 and President Ceri has introduced a prize draw with 75 people contributing. Half of the monies generated will be given to good causes. The first draw was held on the 24th September with the winning number 27. The landlady Lori of the Clubs venue The Strawberry Special Draycott drew the winning number with President Ceri Davies and Rotarian Roger Burdock in attendance.

Presidents Charity 2020-2021 Space

The Presidents Charity for 2020-2021 is the Space Charity which is helping young people in the Cheddar Valley. They have recently obtained an allotment and the Club will be assisting with its development. The Club will assist in fencing the area, helping to purchase a shed and some gardening tools. Members will also be involved in turning the plot in to a vegetable garden with a safe area for the young people. The project will be undertaken in partnership with the Kings of Wessex Academy.

 

The Club Hosted Rotary International President Holger Knaack

 

The Club were privilaged to have as their guest speaker at last Thursdays zoom meeting RI President Holger Knaack. Holger outlined his vision for the future of Rotary and answered questions from members of the Club and guests. Holger was in Round Table and is a keen supporter of Rotaract. An enjoyable evening of Rotary Fellowship.

 

 

The Club sends £500 to assist the relief effort following the explosion in Beirut Docks

Following investgations by International Chair Mike Latham to determine which NGO was on the ground the Rotary Club of Mendip have sent £500 within days of the massive explosion in the docks in Beirut. The monies were sent to the NGO Medicin Sans Frontieres, to assist with their work in helping those injured in the blast. Thanks have been received from MSF and Rotary Clubs in Beirut.

Rotary in Action.

 

 

 

 

New Member Inducted into the Rotary Family


Local businesman Mike Sartain was inducted into the Rotary Club of Mendip last Thursday by Club President Ceri Davies. Mike was sponsored by Rotarian Nigel Deane. The induction was carried out under the “new normal” conditions of social distancing outside at the Strawberry Special where the Club meet. In line with Government guidlines only three other members were in attendance, Mike Hiles Membership Chair, John Mander Secretary and Scott McIntosh Treasurer. In these unusual conditions a risk assessment was prepared with plenty of anticeptic wipes and gel available. Mike had to pin his new Rotary badge on himself another first. Following Mike’s induction into Rotary those in attendance had a good socially distancing fellowship evening to welcome our new Rotarian.

The New President for 2019-2020 Ian Maynard

Rotary is a global voluntary organisation with over 1.2 million members supporting a very wide range of community-based projects large and small, whilst at the same time providing its membership with fellowship and friendship.

 

The Club has supports Childrens Hospice South West

 

The Club has donated £250 to the Childrens Hospice South West who support families in the Cheddar Valley through difficult times. The Hospice has seen a reduction in donations as a result of Covid 19.

 

Club present cheque to Court House Cheddar

The Club has presented a cheque for £100 to the Court House Retirement Home nominated charity. The care workers stayed inside the home during the Covid pandemic to look after their residents, not seeing their families for weeks. During this period they raised monies for Weston Hospice Care. 

Anwar cooks a fourth batch of curries for key workers

Rotarian Anwar Hussain a member of the Rotary Club of Mendip based in Cheddar, prepared and cooked 70 take-away meals for NHS employees, care home staff and other essential workers. This is the fourth occasion Anwar has prepared and served meals. The Rotary Club of Mendip, as part of its response to the Covid-19 pandemic, has sponsored the event on two occasions. 

This year mendip Rotary Club is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Anyone living in the Cheddar Valley wishing to find out more about the Club should visit our Facebook and Twitter pages.

 

 

 

Anwar Hussain cooks thrid batch of free curries for NHS 

Rotarian Anwar Hussain cooked a third batch of his free Curries for local NHS Staff & Carers in the Cheddar Valley, on this occasion, the Rotary Club of Mendip were very pleased to both sponsor & help distribute the curries.  The meals were prepared by Anwar  and brought to the distribution location, where they were given out at a safe distance. Rotarians were on hand to ensure correct social distancing, with the recipients being directed to a holding area while their food was placed on a table. They then collected it after the Rotarian had moved back. Rotary in Action.

 

The Club amends the road signs to reflect the revised guidlines

Following the revision of the Government guidelines the Club has amended the road signs to relect the new message. Stay alert and keep 2 mtres apart. Protect our key workers.

 

Rotarians & Inner Wheel send laundry bags to Tooting Hospital

After sending laundry bags to Stroud Hospital the Club were contacted by the Renal Unit St. George's Hospital Tooting. The Club with members of Inner Wheel together with Pam Salmon ex Ladies Circle and Gill Latham Past President Inner Wheel 30 bags were delivered 3 days later. The staff were very appreciative of the bags.

 

Rotarian organises a street party to celebrate peace

Rotarian Roger Burdock and his wife Jane a member of Inner Wheel organised a socially distancing street party to celebrate VE day. It was organised to celebrate peace and understanding to support Rotary peace scholars.

 

 

 

 

Members have completed the installation of the Stay at Home Signs

Members have completed the installation of the Stay at Home Signs in the Cheddar Valley. Signs have now been erected on the roads into Wedmore and Cross. The Club would like to acknowledge thw support from the following local businesses. Worle Glass & Joinery, The FSC Group, Deane & Sons, JVS Holdings and Cheddar Signs.

 

 

 

Club members support Court House Retirement Home Cheddar

Staff at Court House Retirement Home Cheddar have locked themselves down in the home to look after residents. Club members donated wine as a thank you for their dedication and for them to enjoy when they get time to relax.

 

 

Mendip Support key workers with Stay at Home signs

 

 

As the Bank Holiday weekend approaches several Club members and local businesses have joined together to support key workers and the Government guidelines with Stay at Home signs. These have been placed in the Cheddar Valley. The costs of the signs has been donated by local businesses and they were erected by Club members. The Club would like to thank Cheddar Signs for sponsoring and producing the signs, together with Worle Glass and Joinery and The FSC Group.

 

The Club and The Inner Wheel Club of Mendip together

 

 

Club members together with the Inner Wheel Club of Mendip have been producing laundry bags for key workers, who put their worn clothes in to wash. This reduces the number of times worn clothes have to be handled. The second batch were delivered to Axbridge for onward delivery to Bath Hospitals. There were 56 bags from Rotary and Inner Wheel and 22 bags from a lady in Glastonbury who saw our efforts on social media. Pam Salmon is also producing non surgical face masks which have been given to the pharmacies in Cheddar and Axbridge.

 

 

The Club is assisting The Cheddar Chamber Support Fund

 

 

The Rotary Club of Mendip has donated £250 to the recently established Cheddar Valley Coronavirus Support Group fund. Together with 5 members who donated individually the total donated is £500, which is half the stated target. The fund has been set up by Cheddar Chamber to support local people in the Cheddar Valley in these unprecedented times. The Rotary club of Mendip is pleased to support this community initiative to assist the residents of the Cheddar Valley and the surrounding area.

The Cheddar Valley Coronavirus Support Group was established to meet the demand from isolated and vulnerable people and is supported by the Cheddar Parish Council and Cheddar Chamber of Commerce. It has responded to 600 requests for assistance since its inception. Members if the Club are also assisting by answering the call helpline number.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Club contacts Rotary Clubs around the Globe

 

 

In these uncertain times and to foster Rotary Fellowship, Rotarian Howard Darkin has made contact with all the Clubs Mendip have visited around the world during the last 20 years of international trips. The Club does not have a twin but the President at the time decides which country to visit and then the International Chairman contacts Rotary Clubs in the location. The most recent trip was to Bordeaux where we visited the Rotary Clubs of Bordeaux Bouscat and Bordeaux Ouest. (Archive photo)

 

 

 

Non surgical face masks delivered to Axbridge chemist

 

A second set of non surgical face masks have been delivered to the Pharmacy in Axbridge. The efforts involve several members of the local community as well as the clubs. When Lynne Hebborn owner of the sewing shop “Time Out” in Cheddar was asked to open her shop to get more supplies of elastic which were running out, she gave a large quantity as a donation. Also Pam Salmon who is not a member has produced several bags and the lots of face masks. Pam was a member of Ladies Circle when John was in Table. Our thanks to Lynne and Pam for their support. We were contacted by a lady in Glastonbury who had produced 22 bags and asked if we wanted them. These are now with us for distribution.

Mendip donate to the Cheddar Valley Foodbank

At a recent zoom virtual meeting members agreed to donate a further £500 to the Cheddar Valley Foodbank. The Club has supported this organisation over a number of years as it helps people within its catchment area. NB The picture is from the archives

Rotarian cooks 62 curries for free distribution to NHS staff

Rotarian Anwar Hussain cooked 62 curries which he distributed free to NHS staff in the Cheddar Valley. They were distributed as the staff returned home from work. Anwar is hoping to repeat the event. The initial event was sponsored by Anwar's new company Cheddar Taxi & Chauffeur. Anwar demonstrates by action the Rotary motto "Service Above Self"

Delivery of laundry bags and facemasks to the Pharmacy Cheddar 

 

 

Rotarian Marc Angliss delivers the first of the laundry bags and facemasks for use by the Pharmacists in Cheddar while keeping the safe recommended distance. Stay Safe.

Laundry bags for Front Line Workers

Members of the Club together with members of The Inner Wheel Club of Mendip are making laundry bags from old sheets and pillow cases. These will then be given to local front line staff who can put their clothes in to wash. This will reduce the amount of handling of dirty clothes.

 

Social Distancing

The Club has created a buddy system, the membership has been split into small groups to ensure continued contact during this time. The younger members are helping more vunerable members. The picture shows how a member delivered supplies using social distancing.

 

Big Pitch 2020

 

The Final of the 2020 Big Pitch was held at a recent Club meeting. Four teams of young business people from the King of Wessex Academy who had succesfully competed in the semi finals presented their products and business skills to the Club. The competition was very close and the winner was Madeline Bibby with her business "Maddies Somerset Apple Cakes". All produce was sourced locally. Madeline donated 25% of her profits to Macmillan Cancer Support.  Big Pitch began last Autumn and was organised by Rotarian Patrick Simpson from FSC International (Food Service Centre) of Cheddar. There were 15 teams originally with the 4 finalists selected from them. The runners up were "Pet Patisserie" who made dog biscuits and other treats. "Delicate Decor" who made wooden laser-cut hand painted designs and "Sweet Makes" who made a variety of seasonal themed cakes, buscuits, crackers and cake stands. All the teams in the final considered the environmental and sustainable features of their products. The event was sponsored by Webb & Company and Hilliers Garden Centre allowed competitors to sell produce at the Cheddar Branch.

 

Concert in Aid of The Amber Trust

 

 

Join the Rotary Club of Mendip for an evening of entertainment in aid of the Amber Trust. The renown Derek Paravicini will be headlining. Also playing is Poppy McGee District 1200 finalist in the Young Musician. Also taking part are, The Somernotes and Ashleigh Turley. Derek Paravicini can be seen on you tube.You can also watch him on the Channel 5 documentary "The Musical Genius Derek Paravicini.

 

End Polio Now Campaign

 

The crocus planted by the Club in support of the Rotary Internationals End Polio Campaign can be seen around the area. Over the last 30 years Rotary has donated $2 billion to the eradication effort and protected 2.5 million children from the disease. RI has now committed to raising $50 million per year for the next 3 years to completely eradicate the disease from the world. The Bill gates Folundation has again promised   2-1 donations. They are purple because when a child is inoculated their little finger is dipped in a purple dye.

A wine tasting evening

 

 

The Club enjoyed an excellent talk on wines from the Rhone Valley given by Peter Wright Chairman of the Somerset Wine Tasting Group. Wines not normally generally available were tasted whilst hearing history of the region and wine growing. Wines tasted were, Saint Peray white, Red Amadieu, Maby and Chateau Neuv di Pape. A good fellowship evening.

Mendip 70's night at Shipham Village Hall

Join us to enjoy a night of 70's music with great company and food.

The Rotary Club of Mendip Uganda Project

 

Thanks to a US$70,000 project being led by the Rotary Clubs of Mendip and Kampala Sunrise the latest initiative was Medical Camp at the Ndwaddemutwe School. This was a tremendous success with 957 people attending and being tested and treated for wide range of conditions thanks to the 29 strong medical team organised by Rotary. The Rotary Clubs of Mendip; Bridgwater, Weston Super Mare and the District 1200 E Club were all involved in the funding of this project.
Already a water well is now providing clean water for the first time, the school rooms have been refurbished and water storage tanks and latrines are shortly to be provided in the school. A micro loan system is now operating enabling businesses to be formed as a part of the effort to make inhabitants self–sufficient.
A great deal of benefit and a lot of hard work by the Rotary Club of Kampala Sunrise – Rotary gets things done and new members are always welcome. If you would like further information contact mikegelder1000@gmail.com

 

Rotary establishes a new Peace Centre in Africa

Rotary in partnesrship with Makerere University has established a new Rotary Peace Centre in Kampala Uganda. The Peace Centre will offer a postgraduate certificate programme to peace and development leaders who are from or who have worked in Africa to address the underlying challenges to peace in the region


The Club were involved in the Cheddar Festive Night

The Club were once again involved in Cheddar Festive Night. It was selling burgers and hot drinks in the Rotary Garden. This years contestants in the Big Pitch Competition were there to sell their products to people attending the evening. It was an ideal opportunity to showcase the Clubs involvement in the local community.

 

 

 

President lays a wreath on Rememberence Sunday

President Ian joined several local organisations from Cheddar to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in conflicts, by laying a wreath on behalf of the Rotary Club of Mendip.

 

 

Visit to Hinkley Point C construction site

 

 

 

 

Club Members accompanied members of the Inner Wheel Club of Mendip on a visit to the construction site of Hinkley Point C Nuclear Power Station. The party were bused to the site where they were given a conducted tour.

Members and friends enjoyed a fellowship and fundraising evening at the Rasoi Indian Restaurant

Members and friends enjoyed a fellowship and fundraising evening at The Rasoi Indian restaurant in Cheddar. Thanks to the staff for their efforts to make the evening a success.

 

Club Members Celebrate World Polio Day

 

 

The Club celebrated World Polio Day by planting purple crocii and placing an exhibit in the window of a local shop, to raise awareness. It is Rotary Internationals declared aim to eradicate polio from the world. On World Polio Day it was announced that wild polio vaccine type 3 has been eradicated worldwide. This achievement means that two of the three wild polio strains have been wiped out. In an attempt to assist in the total eradication of Polio leading Muslim Clerics have issued fatwas supporting Pakistans polio vaccination programme.

 

 

Members celebrate the 74th anniversary of the Charter Presentation

Members celebrated the 74th birthday of the Rotary Club of Mendip with a black tie evening. President elect Ceri Davies gave a presentation on the history of Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Mendip.

New Member Inducted

President Ian inducts new member Gerry McCann into the Rotary Global Organisation. Rotary is a voluntary organisation and has over 1.2 million members worldwide.

Young Chef Award

Saskia Carrington was presented with her trophy for winning the 2019 Young Chef Competition. Saskia is a student at the Kings Academy and the Club would like to thank Arabella Beacham and Sue Orchard from Kings Academy who facilitate the event. President Ian Maynard presented the trophy watched by Patrick Simpson Chairman of the FSC Group who sponser the event. Patrick stated that every year the standard increases. As a part of the prize The Woodborough Inn at Winscome allow Saskia to work in their kitchen for a day.

Cinema evening at the Roxy Cinema Axbridge

Members had a fellowship evening at the Roxy Cinema in Axebridge. Those attending enjoyed an entertaining feel good film and good company. 

Donation to Somerset Prostate Support Association

President Ian gives a cheque for £431 to Brian Smith from Somerset Prostate Support Association. Ian raised the monies completing a 57 mile bike ride around Somerset.

Student thanks the Club for their donation

Eleanor Stephens a student at Kings Academy returned to the Club to give a presentation of her time in Tanzania with the charity GIVE (Growth International Volunteer Excursions). The Club had previously donated monies to Eleanor during her fund raising activities. GIVE are a charity who support sustainable volunteering. When out in Tanzania Eleanor helped to construct part of a school and animal pens as well as educating local women. Many of the women had been given seed monies by GIVE to start their own businesses with the aim of making them independent with an income source. Some of the ventures were to manufacture soap to sell to local hotels and chicken farms. 

Cheddar Food and Drink Festival

Members of the Club attended the Cheddar Food and Drink Festival to raise awareness of the work of Rotary and to try to encourage more members to join. The day was a succesful fellowship event and raised the profile of the rotary Club of Mendip within the local community.

Visit to St. Andrews Church Cheddar

Members of the Club visited St. Andres Church in Cheddar. The church was built between 1350 - 1450 with the exception of the 13th century chancel. The earliest reference to a church in Cheddar is in King Alfreds will (died 950 ad). In 1068 a norman charter refers to the Minister Church of Cheddar. Thanks to Dawn Hill for showing the Club around and giving us a history of the Church.

Emergency Responders Show in Wells

Members of Mendip and Crewkerne Rotary Clubs working on the EVAG stand at the Emergency Responders show organised by the Rotary Club of Wells. The Emergency Volunteer Action Group was formed by District 1200 as a response to the flooding on the Somerset Levels. Mendip Rotarians Patrick Simpson, John Salmon and Rotarian David Welch from Crewkerne attended.

Nigeria free of the wild polio virus

 

The World Health Organization has announced that polio is no longer endemic in Nigeria. It has not reported a case of wild poliovirus since July 2014 and it has been confirmed that a full 12 months have passed without any new cases. The whole of Africa is now moving towards being certified as polio free. Rotary has been involved in the eradication of polio for over 30 years and has so far donated $1.8 billion towards eradicatin the disease. A past member of the Rotary Club of Mendip John Lane was the first ever treasurer for the end polio now campaign, which highlights the Clubs involvement. The Rotary Club of Mendip has contribute to the overall total through fund raising and other activities.

Return of our RYLA Candidate 2016

Emma Treharne our succesful 2016 Rotary Young Leadership Awards representative came back to the club 3 years later to update us on her experiences post RYLA with a very informative talk. Emma admitted that she was shy and was not looking forward to the selection interview. However Emma is now clear that RYLA was a life changing experience. Since attending Emma went on to be Head Girl at the local Academy and is now 2 years into a medical degree. Attending university selection interviews of 10 people, she was no longer daunted. At university Emma is the president of three organisations and reiterated that RYLA was a positive experience. RYLA is for young people aged 16 who can benefit from the experience. The Rotary Club of Mendip sponsor one person a year for this course. if you think you would benefit contact us.

Croquet Evening at Bleaden Croquet Club

Club members had a very enjoyable evening trying to learn how to play croquet. Thanks to the Croquet Club of Bleadon for laying on the evening. Croquet was followed by a fellowship meal at a local pub.

Presidents Bike Ride fo Prostate cancer

Club President Ian took part in the Great Weston Ride in aid of the Somerset Prostate Support Association. A journey of 57 miles from Bristol to Weston Super Mare around Somerset. Ian completed the ride in 5 hours 20 minutes. In the process he raised over £400 for the association.

Young Chef Award

Thirteen students from Kings of Wessex Academy took part in the recent annual ‘Young Chef’ cooking competition organised by the Rotary Club of Mendip. Their challenge was to devise, prepare and cook a two-course meal to restaurant standard in two and a half hours.

 

A variety of dishes were served by the young people and were judged by a team food professionals from the FSC Group based in Cheddar, who also sponsored the event. All the competitors were awarded aprons and certificates for their efforts, but the first prize of a set of chef’s ‘whites’ and a day’s kitchen work experience at The Woodborough in Winscombe, went to 14-year old Saskia who prepared pan-fried salmon with watercress sauce, mixed vegetables, and dauphinoise potatoes; followed by layered brownies with cream and strawberry sauce. The runner-up was Cami, and Georgia took third place.

Rotarian Patrick Simpson, the event organiser, said afterwards, “The overall standard of the dishes was extremely high, and the judges had great difficulty in making their final selection. Rotary would like to thank Arabella Beacham, head of food technology at Kings for her help in staging this competition.”

 

Young Artist Awards

At a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Mendip, prizes were awarded to winning students who had entered the Rotary Young Artist competition sponsored by local chartered accountants Four Fifty Partnership. Rotarian and head judge Richard Acreman warmly welcomed the entrants and guests and thanked Rebecca Weaving, head of the art department at the Kings of Wessex Academy, for her help in organising the event. He also thanked the judging panel which included Mrs Janet Travis.

Voucher prizes were awarded to the first and second places in the following categories: acrylic and watercolour, photography, still life, and textiles. In presenting the prizes and certificates, club president Ian Maynard said, “These young people are to be commended on their creativity and high standard of work.”

From all the entries, yr9 student Maisy was selected as the overall winner.

 

Memebers help at Weare first School Fete

 

Members of the Club manned a BBQ tent at the Weare First School Fete. Rotarian Stephen Shaw waiting fior customers. The day was a succes or the school.

Members take part in Charity Golf Day

Members of the Club took part in the Yeovil & yeo Vale Rotary Clubs annual golf day. The event was held to raise monies for the Yeovil Hospital Breast Cnacer Unit Appeal.

The new Rotary Year 2019-2020

The new Rotary year commenced with the hand over from Past president Adam Travis to the incomming President Ian Maynard.

THE NEW PRESIDENT FOR 2018-2019 is Adam Travis

Presidents Message

I would like to take this opportunity of welcoming all visitors to Mendip RC website, whether you are Club members, potential new members or are simply interested in what we do.

Rotary is a global voluntary organisation with over 1.2 million members supporting a very wide range of community-based projects large and small, whilst at the same time providing its membership with fellowship and friendship.

The Rotary Club of Mendip support local causes within the Cheddar Valley. As well as donating funds to international disasters such as the Tsunami in Indonisia.

Globally Rotary is in the final stages of its 30-year $1b Polio Eradication Programme; this life-changing disease is now limited to a few cases in Pakistan and Afghanistan. We are very hopeful that within 3 years Polio will finally be defeated.

At a local level Mendip RC and its members will continue to support its youth programme in the local community including, Young Chef, Young Musician, Young Artist, Young Writer, Youth Speaks, The Big Pitch, and mock interviews.

Internationally, Mendip is leading a group of Rotary Clubs in Somerset, India and Uganda to support a rural district 50km north-east of Kampala for the next 3 years. This project will provide sanitation, basic healthcare, IT skills and mentoring to young and female entrepreneurs. The project will cost US$75k, 60% of which will come from Rotary Foundation, our own Charity, and this speaks volumes for the power of Rotary.

If you are interested to hear more about this fantastic organisation and would like to contribute to both our local and international communities, please visit us at The Strawberry Special Draycott on Thursday evenings, 19:00 for 19:30. 

Paul Harris Fellowowship Award

Rotarian Patrick Simpson was presented with the Paul Harris Fellowship award for his services to young citizens. Patrick has for 12 years developed the Big Pitch with the local Academy. The aim is to bring business skills to young students. The event has been so succesful that District 1200 have now adopted the format. Patrick has also run the Young Chef Award for the Club.The presentation was made at the Presidents day held in Axbridge Town Hall. 

Visit to Lye Cross Farm Cheese tasting

The Club had a very enjoyable visit to Lye Cross Farm where John Alvis gave a tour of the packing area. The visit gave a background into this successful local farm. Included was a tasting session of their cheeses. The evening was finished of with fellowship and food at the Wilcox Cider Shed.

Rugby Night with Tom Dunn Bath Rugby

Members and guests were entertained by Tom Dunn from Bath Rugby Club. Tom talked about his introduction to rugby and anecdotes from his career. He then held a very instructive Q & A session. The event was held in the Wedmore Village Hall with a curry supper. Everybody had a great evening with monies raised for Cancer Research UK.

Charity Walk in support of Cancer Research UK

The Club held a Charity Walk around the beautiful Mendips in aid of Cancer Research UK. There were two walks one for families and one for the serious walkers. it was followed by a cream tea in the Cross Village Hall. The event was enjoyed by all those taking part. They were treated to some spectacular vistas. Come and join us in 2020.

This years annual International Tour was to Bordeaux. During the trip the members attended the  meetings of two local Rotary Clubs to enjoy fellowship and learn how other rotary clubs conduct their business. Dinner on the first evening was with the Rotary Club Bordeaux Bouscat who meet at Le Cercle de l' Automobile Club. The following lunch time was spent with the Rotary Club Bordeaux Ouest who met at the Mercure Hotel overlooking the River Garonne. during the trip members went to La Cite' du Vin where there was an exhibition of the history of wine making throughout the world. A boat tour along La Geronne was also taken to learn more of the history of the area. Walking tours around the city were also included and the members had a very enjoyable time.

The Club supports the Revealed Project

Adele Sutton who is an Honorary Members of the Rotary Club of Mendip gave a talk describing her work with vunerable adults. The Revealed Project aims to inspire young people to be confident in who they are and develop their skills to build healthy re;ationships in all aspects of thier lives. The Club is happy to support this worthwhile venture and has give £780 towards the project.

 

Rotary Youth Leadership Award

The Club's representative on RYLA George Winby came back to the Club to give a presentation on his experience on the course. He gave very positive feedback and stated how much the course has benefited him. The RYLA programme gives young people the chance to improve their leadership, team working and communication skills, respect for the environment and learn public speaking skills. This course will also enable candidates to understand their own personal strengths and how to achieve their personal goals in life. The RYLA programme provides a unique opportunity to learn, grow, have fun, and make new friends.

Mendip give £2500 to support projects in Axbridge and Wedmore

 

Club President Adam Travis presented cheques to two local organizations. 

A cheque for £1500 was presented to 1st Wedmore Scout Group to enable them to replace ageing camping equipment. 

A cheque for £1000 was presented to Axbridge Church to help improve disabled access to their Church Room. The room is used as a community place by many local organisations in Axbridge and the monies would enable more elderly and people with disabilities to attend.

Members pack Water Survival Boxes for Mozambique

Rotary and Inner Wheel Clubs of Mendip members went to pack Water Survival Boxes with Hugo Pike from the Chelwood Bridge RC. A shipment of boxes has already been sent to Malawi and further shipments to Mozambique for survivors of the Cyclone disaster will be shipped shortly.

A Day at Taunton Races

A number of rotarians and their wives spent an enjoyable day at Taunton Races. They were accompanied by rotarians from Weston Super Mare and Wrington Vale. We had a room with a view of the course, where we had lunch. Members of the group ventured out to the saddling enclosure to view the horses before making their bets. Good weather good company, fellowship.

Young Musician Cheddar Valley

 

 

Mendip Rotary Club’s annual young musician competition was held recently in the Bailey Concert Hall of Sidcot School. Instrumentalists and singers from schools in the Cheddar Valley were invited to take part. The competition was judged by local professional musicians Barry Rose OBE and David Cheetham.

In the under-15 age group the winner was 10-year old pianist Yuying Fan, a student at St Michael’s C of E School in  Second prize went to flutist Ella Hicks-Hurley, a student at

In the over-15 age group the winner was trumpeter Nina Tyrrell, a student at Kings of Wessex Academy. Koichiro Fueda from was awarded second prize for his performance. 

 There was an additional award for outstanding musical potential made in memory of seventeen year-old Catrine Basil an accomplished musician and former student at sidcot School who tragically died following an accident in 2003. This was awarded to hannah Coulton a student at Priory Community School Worle.

The judges awarded the cup for the best overall performance to Nina Tyrrell. Nina lives in Axbridge.

Head of Music at , Paul Woolley, accompanied the students on piano.

The Club supports Local PTA

 

In association with the Draycott & Rodney Stoke First School PTA, the Story Teller Chair was funded by the Rotary Club of Mendip with the benches funded by the PTA.
The Chair is the focal point where their teacher can sit while the children gather around on the benches. The teacher can then conduct the class with stories or other learning activities. The idea is that as children like being outside where they are more 
relaxed and enjoy their time, the equipment will be very useful.

Members of the PTA, , Gill, Elaine and Claire attended a recent meeting where Adam Travis the Club President handed over a cheque for the chair.

End Polio Now

The croci planted by the Club in Cheddar are now in bloom for all to see. They were planted to remeber the aim of Rotary International to eradicate polio worldwide. Club involvement goes back to the beginning when Rotarian John Lane was the Rotary International Greaty Britain and Ireland treasurer for Polio Plus which was the initial name for the initiative. Polio has been reduced by 99.9% and in 2018 was only found in two countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan. There were only 31 recorded cases.

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards

 18 year old George Winby was sponsered by the Rotary Club of Mendip to join 23 other young people from other Rotary Clubs on a Rotary Youth Leadership Award course held on dartmoor during the 2019 winter half term. The youngsters are pictured with District Governor elect Dennis Stevens and his wife Jill.

Fellowship evening at Wilcox Cider Barn

Members enjoyed an evening of fellowship at the Wilcox Cider Barn. Rotarian Dennis Malpass informed the members of the tremendous work carried out by the Club in relation to the eradication of polio and the building of an eye hospital in India.

Big Pitch Finals

Fancy Fudge a team from year 9 students from the Kings of Wessex Academy won the annual entrepeneur competition "The Big Pitch" which is run by the Club. Scarlot and Florence were declared the winners when Mendip Rotarians judged the competition on five criteria: concept, image, sustainability, profitability and teamwork. The project started last autumn with 19 teams entering the competition and four of them made it to the final. The runners up were: Nomm-on who made biscuits using a traditional German recipe, Happy Chappy who made dog treats and Sweat Creations who made Christmas themed sweets.

A Rugby Evening with Tom Dunn from Bath Rugby 23rd May

Come and join us to hear Tom Dunn talk about life as a professional rugby player.

Big Pitch 2019

The semi finals of this years Big Pitch were held recently, The final will take place on the 7th February at the Strawberry Special Draycott. This is the Clubs annual competition to develop the next wave of entrepreneurs. The teams decide on a product, manufacture it, market the product and then sell it at various locations. The pictute shows the finalists.

Club members on standby

Club members who own 4x4s are on standby to assist the Rotary Emergency Volunteer Action Group during the current wintry conditions. The members are available to transport vunerable people and essential workers in locations experiencing deep snow, which are inaccessible to normal vehicles.

Emergency Volunteer Action Group

Rotarian David Welch gave the Club an update on the Emergency Volunteer Action Group (EVAG) which was formed in District 1200. It was formed as a response to the Somerset floods and raised £150k to help those affected. As a result of the work carried out it was asked by Somerset CC to assist in providing plans for future incidents. The Group was involved recently with storm Emma where members with 4x4 vehicles transported essential personnel and residents who were affected by the deep snow. As a result of the Civil Contingency Act the group are now involved with Dorset and Wiltshire CC which are within the boundaries of District 1200. In the event of an incident the volunteers have the ability to man centres for evacuees, man reception centres to log  interview and assign tasks to other volunteers, run warehouses as a logistic issue for any donations and develop a recovery programme. There are now two operations centres 1. to receive people effected and 2 to organise the rota of other volunteers to ensure any requirements are staffed for the duration. The picture shows David Welch with members of the Club who are part of the EVAG team.

Global Sight Solutions

The Club was entertained by Rotarian John Miles who gave a talk on the charity Global Sight Solutions, originally The Guildford Rotary Eye project.The aim of the Charity is to develop The Avoidable Blindness Programme. There are 50 million men, women and children worldwide who cannot afford to have their eyesite restored. Local hospitals are set up and run by local people with the aim of them becoming financially sustainable. The Charity has set a target of 50 new hospitals to be opened by 2020 to support those already operational. Due to the assistance of Rotary Foundation a gift of £5 will become £15 which is the cost of a cataract operastion in the developing world. To donate go to the Charities website.

Christmas celebrations

The Club together with the Inner Wheel Club of Mendip held thier annual Celebration of Christmas. Following a service at St. Peter's Church Draycott conducted by Rotarian Mike Gelder everyone adjourned to the Strawberry Special for a meal and fellowship. The assembled were entertained by a performance from the Inner Wheel Club of Mendip. the Inner Wheel of Mendip.

Cheddar Festive Night

Following a disaterous start when the main marquee was destroyed by a strong gust of wind the Rotary Club event went ahead. The marquee was intended for use by the students fro the Kings Academy to sell their products as part of the Big Pitch initiative. Thanks to La Rocca the students were allowed to set up their stalls around the restaurant and the event continued. The Rotary stall was moved to a members drive where hot dogs and burgers were sold. The Inner Wheel Club also used the same location to sell doughnuts and hot chocolate. An excercise in disaster recovery.

Local Rotary Clubs adopt a Ugandan Village

The Rotary Clubs of Mendip; Bridgwater, Weston Super Mare and the District 1200 E Club have combined to adopt the , Uganga in an exciting US$70,000 project.

Adoption’ involves improving the basic needs of a village through three primary means – Water; Education and Medical. 

This project has been made possible through a Rotary Foundation Grant which multiplied the funds raised by the local clubs, D3201,Kerala, Cochin and Tamil Nadu, South India. Also Rotary Clubs of Kampala Sunrise, and so is a truly international initiative.

Mendip honour two local cave rescue divers involved in the Thai Cave Rescue

The Rotary Club of Mendip honoured two of the Cave Rescue Divers from the Cheddar Valley who were involved in the rescue operation to free the boys belonging to the Thailand football team who had become trapped in the Tham Luang Caves. Chris Jewell and Connor Roe were part of the International rescue operation and both were involved within the cave system to bring the boys out. Chris and Connor are members of the British Cave Rescue Council. At a special Club meeting the two were presented with the Paul Harris Fellow Award. It was considered that the two had exemplified the essence of Rotary “Service Above Self”. It is the first time in its 75 year year history that the Club has given this award to Non Rotarians.

During the evening attended by members and guests including Rotarians from the Rotary Club of London and Rotary Club of Rugby an interesting presentation about the rescue operation was given.

Talk on Homelessness

Naseem Talukdar gave a very interesting talk to the Club about homelessness in Somerset.

Mendip support Cheddar Rescue

President Adam Travis hands over a cheque to Cheddar Rescue as the Rotary Club of Mendips continued support of local organisations.

Polio Presentation at Cheddar Library

Rotarian Bob Acland preparing to give a talk to members of the public about Rotary's invovlment in the eradication of polio worldwide.

Mendip Rotary Plant Crocus for World Polio Day

Members of the Rotary Club of Mendip plant purple crocus to celebrate World Polio Day. Rotary International with the Bill and Melisa Gates Foundation is working towards the eradication of polio worldwide. The reason purple crocus are planted is because when children are vaccinated their little fingers are dipped in purple ink to signify that they have been vaccinated.

Talk on the eradication of polio by Mendip Rotary at the Cheddar Library

ROTARY’S WORLD POLIO DAY

Rotary International has been working to eradicate poliomyelitis (polio) for over 30 years, and its goal of ridding the world of this crippling contagious disease is in sight. The project started in 1979 with vaccinations for 6 million children in the . Since then, along with partners, Rotary has helped immunise more than 2.5 billion children in 122 countries against the disease. The number of polio cases has reduced by 99.9 percent worldwide and Rotary won't stop until the disease is gone for good. Today, , , and are the only countries where polio remains endemic, and even in these countries the number of cases is very small.

Members of the public are warmly invited the Cheddar Library on Wednesday 24th October at 2 pm to a live event and a talk by the Rotary Club of Mendip about how it is taking bold steps to contribute to polio eradication. There is no need to book for this free event–simply turn up. If you require more information, please contact Rotarian Jim Skinner 07880 791580.

The picture shows crocus planted in the Rotary Sensory Garden Cheddar.

Mendip Rotary donate to Shelterbox to provide assistance to the survivors of the Indonisian Tsunami and Earthqauke 

The Rotary Club of Mendip have donated funds from thier charity account for the purchase of a Shelterbox to be sent to survivors of the Indonisian Tsunami and Earthquake. The box will be one of many sent by the Rotary Charity Shelterbox and will provide shelter and basic equipment to a family who have lost everything. The picture shows the contents of the Shelterbox.

Mendip Rotary provide two Water Survival Boxes

The Club have provided funds to purchase two Water Survival Boxes to replenish the depleted stocks following the large consignment sent to Kerela India following the flooding there. These will be available to send to anywhere where clean water is required following a natural disaster. The water filter can turn 100,000 litres of contaminated water into drinking water. The box also contains items for basic survival. The contents can be seen in the photograph below.

 

Mendip Rotary are giving a talk on the eradication of polio on 24th October at 2:00pm.

It is the aim of Rotary International to eradicate polio from the world. To hear more come to Cheddar Library on the 24th October at 2:00pm. For more information ring 0788-791580.

Re building a school in Nepal

The Club has donated to the District 1200 initiative led by the Rotary Club of Yeovil to rebuild a school in Nepal which was destroyed by the 2015 earthquake. The 7.8 earthquake destroyed 475 schools. The total cost is £64k of which £53k has been raised to date. One of the partners is the Somerset Charity School in a Bag., who delivers rucksacks filled with stationary learning resources and eating utensils to disaster affected children.

Mobile eye unit for India

  

Following a talk from Rotarian Yinka Osaba from the Rotary Club of Yeovi,l related to the work carried out by the SSM Eye ResearchFoundation in India. The Club donated funds towards the mobile eye unit. The Project Nethra is in conjunction with the Girdhar Eye Institute India. The Rotary Club of Cochin initiated the project which was supported by the Rotary Club of Yeovil. The project cost were $80k.

Presentation of the Rotary Community Service Award to  Bailey of Bristol

President Richard and Past President Phil present the Rotary Community Service Award to Craig Robinson in thanks for the tremendous support given by Bailey of Bristol and Prima who supllied the Caravan and ancillary prizes for our raffle to help Macmillan. 

Handover of the Caravan Donated by Bailey of Bristol Caravans

The Caravan from our prize draw being handed over to the winners Mr & Mrs Britton at winchester Caravans. The caravan was donated by Bailey of Bristol. president Richard Tilleyand Past President Phil Hunt made the presentation.

BATH & WEST SUCCESS  FOR PRIDDY SCHOOL FEATURING MENDIP ROTARY BIRD BOX & BUG HOTEL

Priddy School featured a bird box and bug hotel made by members of Mendip Rotary in their Gold Award entry in the Bath & West Show competition for schools for the best decorated shopping trolley; the competition was sponsored by Morrisons. 

Credits included reference to our club which made boxes and hotels for a number of local schools over the last two years - congratulations are due to President Richard for coming up with this environmental initiative and of course to the school, one of whose teachers is the daughter of one of members Mark Summers. The photo gallery includes further pictures

CHARITY WALK & BBQ 

40 people and children took part in the Rotary Club of Mendip inaugural walk. This included participants from 5 other Rotary Clubs. Frome RC, Frome Town RC, Frome Selwood RC, Bridgwater RC and Bradley Stoke RC. There were 2 walks on for families of approximately 3.5 miles around Compton Bishop and a longer walk of 5.5 miles to Crook Peak and back. Both walks set of from the Cross Memorial Hall.

The walks included a treasure hunt to keep everybody interested. Seven families took part in the event.

 

After the walk there was a presentation of certificates to all walkers and the winners of each walk who had the most correct answers. This was followed by a BBQ where everybody relaxed in the sunshine and recounted their experiences.

 

The walk was to raise funds for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and Rotary Charities

 

Photo shows walkers relaxing after their exertions - there are more photos in the Photo Gallery

CLUB 2018 VISIT TO PORTUGESE e-club

In 2018 President Richard led 11 members to visit an e-club based in Olhao,Portugal, which is an extension of RIBI. They provided us with a visit to Vineyard and to a Rotary Food Farm which grows crops to distribute to the poor in local towns. Whilst on the trip we toured Olhao, our base, Tavira & Faro including an interesting return from Faro to Olhao - as ever our hotel was good and reasonably priced and we had excellent meals in local restaurants. SEE the Photos on our website for more revelations! 

YOUNG MUSICIAN - MENDIP CANDIDATE IS RUNNER-UP IN RIBI NATIONAL COMPETITION AT THE AGE OF 13 - CONGRATULATIONS POPPY !!!!!!

Thirteen year-old Poppy McGhee, a pupil at Hugh Sexey C of E Middle School, became Runner up in the final of RIBI Young Musician Competition in Edinburgh on 19th. May having previously won the South West Final and Rotary 1200 District Young Musician Competition (instrumental section) held recently at Kings of Wessex Academy in Cheddar. Her ability and violin performance was highly impressive at all levels.

She played ‘Chant-Poème’ by Aram Khachaturian and ‘The Hot Canary’ by Paul Nero. Of the latter piece, Poppy said, “The Hot Canary makes me smile; I hope it makes you smile too.” Her playing was described by the three adjudicators as ‘demonstrating complete mastery of her instrument’ and having ‘captivated the audience’.

                 ROTARY POLIO DAY DISPLAY IN CHEDDAR

Thanks to Nigel Deane we obtained a prime site in Cheddar to enable a prominent display to celebrate Rotary's amazing efforts to lead the world in trying to eliminate Polio, the figures speak for themselves 350,000 cases in 1988 down to just 37 in 2016. Sustained major efforts and funding are still needed to achieve the target of total elimination!

 

THANKS TO BAILEY OF BRISTOL WE RAISED OVER £25k

Bailey of Bristol donated a top of the range 4 berth single axle Pegasus Caravan to Mendip Rotary Club to raffle for Cancer and other Rotary Charities. The draw took place on Sunday 22nd October as planned.

Chief Executive of Bailey of Bristol made the draw for 9 prizes, the main prize being the caravan which will be furnished to the winners choice. Below are listed  the winning numbers who is shown drawing the prize. On his left is President of Mendip Rotary Club Richard Tilley & on his left in the pink shirt Immediate {ast President Phil Hunt.

 

We obviously cannot reveal names and addresses - but here are the details:
First......................Caravan...... ..........09834........BH25  ( New Milton)
Second................  Awning..................03539. .......BS28  (Wedmore)
Third ....................BBQ................. .....04444........NP16  ( Newport)

Fourth  ............... .Chairs.................. ..05573.......TN29   
Fifth ...................  Hamper................09956... ... ..SO51
Sixth .................. .Hamper............ ....03950.....  ..TA24 
Seventh .............. .Hamper................ 02357.......  TA3  
Eighth ..................Hamper.............. ..00984......   TA9
Ninth ...................Hamper............ ....01306          email address

All winners have been advised. 

For more information visit the Win a Caravan website by clicking the link button

 

edmore

YOUNG CHEF COMPETITION 2017

Once again the popular Young Chef competitors produced an amazing array of dishes which gave our judges a difficult decision deciding on the winner. Thanks to the staff of Kings of Wessex Academy for inspiring the students to enter.

BRAD BURTON,BRITAIN'S No. 1 MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER   ( his Mum says), INSPIRES MEMBERS & GUESTS

On 21st September our meeting was held at Rookery Farm where over 80 members and visitors enjoyed a good meal and lively talk from Brad who kindly donated his services free. It was surprising to see the lengths to which people would go to obtain a free copy of Brad's book! Hopefully some of the young business people attending will emulate his business success!

ROTARIANS FROM INDIA VISIT OUR CLUB

We were delighted to welcome to extend our Friendship to members of Rotary District 3201 India. Local visits were arranged and the Rotarians and their partners attended our meeting to share information about their District and Clubs in India and also enjoyed hearing an interesting about 'Henry the Hoover' which excited their entrepreneurial instincts. More photos can be found in the photo gallery.

 

BIRD & BUG BOXES FOR CHEDDAR FIRST SCHOOL

After the popularity of our Boxes at Cheddar First School four members got together to build more for Cheddar First School, a few hours work and some wood courtesy of Vice President Richard Tilley enabled the above boxes to be prepared before moving them to the school. We hope may happy bugs and and birds will thrive!

 

 
  • If you would be interested in finding out more about Rotary it's ideals and aspirations please visit our website or use the contact section in the membership area. We promise we will get back to you as soon as possible

 

 

 

 

Club diary click image to access.

 

All trademarks and images (registered or otherwise) used in this website are acknowleged

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our Social Media

Meetings & Venue

Where and when:

We meet on Thursdays at 19.15 for 19.30

The George Inn
Church street
Wedmore
Somerset.
BS28 4AB  01934 742177

Get Directions

Enter your Postcode or Town

Rotary News

Be part of a global network of volunteers, trying to make the world a better place. Please also see the 'links & news' page for information from the local district and live feeds from Rotary International and Rotary International in GB&I.

Rotary serving communities through supporting foodbanks

Diversity is part of Rotary’s core values