Rotary Thanks Newton Aycliffe and all our volunteers

ROTARY THANKS NEWTON AYCLIFFE AND ALL OUR VOLUNTEERS

Rotary Newton Aycliffe has had an extremely busy run up to Christmas and thanks must go to our volunteers, supporters and the community in general who have all been generous in their giving. We have been able to help many more families and individuals who are referred to us by various authorities, such as the Health Visitors and Social Services.

The Reverse Advent Box Scheme was extremely successful with 83 hampers collected from Rotary members, their families, and friends on 4th December. Many of the hampers were contributed by members of the public who responded to our articles in Newton News, and on Facebook. We do not have the names of these people but thank you most sincerely for your kindness. We offer particular thanks to a gentleman from Youens Crescent who instigated support from his colleagues at Babcock Engineering, Catterick. All hampers were distributed to foodbanks throughout the area.

Fundraising by hardworking Rotarians at Christmas and throughout the year enabled 78 food vouchers to be distributed by our Health Visitors to families in Great Aycliffe. 14 food vouchers were given via Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Group to assist patients who require special diets and have no meaningful income. Newton Aycliffe Police requested help for some families in need and we duly supplied some bags of 'goodies'. We were delighted to assist.

Last but by no means least our grateful thanks go to David Brassell, Steve Dawes, James Kelay and other members of Heighington Football Club as well as the young people from Acle Scouts. Without their assistance in door knocking, we could not have held our Santa Sleigh Runs around the streets of the town. Thanks also to Newton Aycliffe Tesco and Shirley, Community Champion. Not forgetting our great friend Alan Nelson and the giving of your time to our endeavours. What would we do without you? We are indeed indebted to you all.

Rotary Newton Aycliffe members wish our lovely community a marvellous Christmas and a peaceful New Year. Please stay safe! Signing off now for a well-earned break.