Club Chronicle

2 July 2026: Handover Meeting

Report by 2025-26 President Graham

On 2 July, a number of Members and partners met at the house of 2026-27 President Anne for an informal handover of the Club Presidency. This was intentionally a low-key but convivial meeting where I handed over the badge of office to Anne and Warwick Aldham was appointed First Vice President. There were no speeches as these had been held at previous meetings, as had my thanks for the support I received from Members and in particular from our Secretary, Francis. We all wished Anne lots of luck for the following year, especially going forward to the centenary of Rotary in Chelmsford.

Rotary Young Musician District Final

Report by Anne Moriaty

The District Final took place in Brentwood Cathedral on Saturday 28 February in the presence of the Deputy Mayor of Chelmsford, Cllr Smita Rajesh, and her consort.

The audience were treated to a lovely concert with high standard performances from five vocalists and six instrumentalists. Sadly there could only be two winners going through to the Regional Final and after lengthy deliberations the accolades went to pianist Tailin Liu sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bishops Stortford and vocalist Harry Sunderland sponsored by the Rotary Club of Dunmow.

Our Chelmsford winners, Henrietta Lawrence and Chloe Mahler were worthy runners-up.

I had the honour of giving out the certificates and the Deputy Mayoress presented the winner and runner-up trophies.

Collection for Marie Curie

On 25 February 2026 President Graham, Francis Whitbread, Keith Dabbs, Anne Moriety and Steve, worked as a team at Morrisons Supermarket to collect monies on behalf of the Marie Curie charity. We collected a handsome sum, of which £80 was collected via card payment through the “SumUp” device. We enjoyed the day and special thanks to Francis who made the arrangements and remained all day throughout others’ slots. A photo opportunity could not go amiss.