Newbury Rotary Presidents Meet Social Distancing Challenge

Despite these challenging times Newbury Rotary Club still managed to execute their presidential handover in Victoria Park whilst maintaining a safe distance, when outgoing President Nick Burriston (right) handed over the presidency to new President Les Osmond (centre). In turn Les was able to pass on the Vice President’s role to Steve Waite (left).

The current situation with COVID-19 has meant that many of Rotary’s fund raising events planned for the year have been cancelled, but in spite of this Newbury Rotary Club has continued to support local charities along with a number of donations for projects specifically relating to the challenges of the pandemic.

Newbury Rotary is also continuing to meet online using video conferencing and planning future events for when COVID-19 restrictions are eased. The focus of the Club will be to raise funds for local charities, in particular for West Berks Young Carers and West Berks Mencap which are the President’s principal charities for 2020/21.

From the numerous reports in the media it is clear that West Berkshire’s volunteer response to the community’s support needs arising from the pandemic has been impressive. That extraordinary response will continue to be needed until COVID-19 is finally brought under control and we can at last return to normal life. However, even once the pandemic is brought under control our community will continue to need the kind of support that the men and women of Rotary – and similar organisations – provide.

So if you have been inspired by the community and volunteering opportunities that have arisen in the Newbury area over the past months, and would like to continue helping to support our community, simply email info@newburyrotary.org to express your interest.