Members of Gravesend Rotary Club recently marked the club’s 90 years of service to the town with a birthday lunch attended by 67 Rotarians and guests. Among them was the President of the national Rotary organisation Denis Spiller, who congratulated members on their long record of service to the people of Gravesend
President receiving certificate from District Governor (left) with RIBI President (right)
District governor Carol Vizard, who oversees clubs in Kent and Sussex, presented a commemorative 90th birthday certificate and Rotary clubs in. Bromley, Dover, and Northfleet also passed on their congratulations.
Mr Spiller said: “Gravesend members represent all that the founders of Rotary had aimed for back in 1910 when the movement started. Â The Gravesend club can truly be said to be punching above its weight.” He praised its support of local food banks, helping school children and the elderly, and the provision of facilities at the ellenor hospice.
The club’s annual sponsored cycle ride, On Your Bike, was also highlighted, with it having raised some £600,000 for charity in the past 31 years. Gravesend president Dilbagh Singh spoke of the club’s first meeting in 1927, adding: “Rotary’s original motto of ‘service above’ remains as important as ever.”
The new club president for 2017/18, Tony Muckley, said he was honoured to take on the responsibility. He said he was keen to attract more members during his time in charge, with anyone interested in helping out urged to visit www.gravesendrotary.org.uk.