100 years of service (From Gazette Series)

100 years of service

THE Rotary organisation is celebrating one hundred years of service to the community during 2004-2005 and thousands of clubs worldwide are undertaking major community projects. In Thornbury, Rotarians will be supporting the project to create a playground for the under-eights at Streamleaze Green.

Rotary Club president Chris Fairhead said that over the past year they had been in discussion with the Town Council and other interested parties to determine a centenary project which would provide a lasting service and be of long term benefit to the local community.

"We aim to provide a major portion of the finance for the Streamleaze Green project from our fund-raising activities and we shall also be giving hands-on support during the planning and construction stages," he said. "The result will be a permanent amenity for young children in Thornbury."

Some funds from Rotary's annual Swimarathon, to be held in February, would be available for the scheme, he said, but a major fund-raising event would take place during Thornbury Arts Festival on Sunday, May 9 when the club would be sponsoring a cabaret and promises evening.

"Local stars from the North Avon Youth Theatre and musical comedy group Octopus are lined up to provide the entertainment during the evening and we have high hopes for the auction of promises," said Chris. "Substantial promises have already been offered by local residents and organisations, including holidays in Spain and the Algarve, trips in balloons and long boats and various golfing opportunities."

He said the club would be delighted to receive further promises for the auction and anyone wishing to register a promise should contact him 01454 413990, Dennis Hilton on 01454 613369 or any Thornbury Rotarian.