Charter Dinner - 2008

A splendid evening was enjoyed by over 80 members and guests on this, the celebration of the 85th anniversary of our Club's Charter.  And the "mystery speaker" was revealed in all his finery as David Mitchell, the Town Crier of Chester.

We welcomed the Mayor of Durham, Rtn. Bob Wynn and his consort, as well as District Governor Malcolm Eaton, District Governor Elect Ron Goodwin, Assistant Governor Marjory Elliot and Assistant Governor Elect Alan Cartwright.  In all, 10 other Rotary Clubs were represented, from within District 1030 and beyond, providing us with a wonderful opportunity to widen and deepen our experience of the Fellowship of Rotary.

During the traditional toasts, President David took the opportunity to mark an important occasion - the retirement from service as our Sergeant At Arms (Master of Ceremonies) of Colin Beswick after 36 years service to the Club.  David Mitchell, who is known to Colin from his days as Town Crier of the City of Durham, was asked to present Colin, on behalf of the Club, with an engraved tankard to mark the occasion.
Colin joined the Rotary Club of Durham in 1971 just after he had completed a year as Mayor of the City of Durham.  He was appointed our Sergeant At Arms in 1972, a post he has held very effectively ever since, apart from a year as Club President in 1986-87.  He was Town Crier to the city from 1998 to 2006 and was awarded the MBE for services to Durham City in 2005.
Colin continues his membership of the Club and his very active role in the life and community of the city and is a splendid example of the Rotary ideals of service.

After toasts to Rotary International, the Rotary Club of Durham and Our Guests and Visitors, we were entertained by David Mitchell's amazing, hilarious and sometimes hair-raising experiences as a Town Crier.  

A thoroughly enjoyable and worthwhile evening!

The Mayor and his Consort are welcomed by President David Wallace (l) and President Elect Eric Colling (r)

The President and President Elect with District Governor Malcolm Eaton (2nd r) and District Governor Elect Ron Goodwin (left).

The "mystery speaker" is revealed in all his finery as David Mitchell, Town Crier of Chester.

Rotarian Colin Beswick is presented with an engraved tankard to mark his retirement as Sergeant At Arms

... And shows his surprise and appreciation!

The Town Crier in full cry!

And presents Past District Governor Tony Elliot with a token prize in an impromptu quiz!