Hereford Wye Valley Rotary Club - Club Activities
   
   
Monday, August 1: Paul Harris Fellowships were presented to two outstanding servants of the club - President Mike Aubrey and founder member Roy Bayliss. The 'Rotary CVs' of both members were described in detail and the medals, badges and certificates handed over by Assistant Governor Martin Perry (seen centre). In his remarks, Rtn Perry said that a PHF was the highest honour a club can award to fellow members. Roy Bayliss is pictured right, with President Mike Aubrey left.
   

Monday, August 1: A special fund-raising dinner was held in the ballroom of the Green Dragon Hotel in aid of Blackmaston School's appeal - to build a sensory room for the use of their pupils. Guest speaker at the highly-sucecssful event, attended by nearly 100 Rotarians and guests was Hereford MP Jesse Norman. He spoke on experiences of his first year in Parliament. He is pictured here (centre) with Hereford Wye Valley Rotary president Mike Aubrey and Rotarian Dick Brimacombe, who introduced the guest speaker. The event was organised by Rotarian Ian Kirby.
   
Monday, July 4: Four new members were inducted at the annual 'hand-over' meeting in the Green Dragon Hotel. Seen above are new members Bryan Betts, Roy Jenkins, Simon Constance and Jackie Perkins with Club President Mike Aubrey and Past President Alan Hudson.
   
Monday, July 4: Rtn Bob Izon was the first recipient of the John Sweetman Attendance Trophy. He received the inaugural award from John's widow, Norma, at the club's hand-over meeting.

Monday, July 4: The annual club presidential and officer hand-over meeting was held at the Green Dragon Hotel. Alan Hudson passed the chain of office to Mike Aubrey (seen right).

   
Visit of Argentinian Rotarians to Herefordshire

The Argentinian team seen at Weston's Cider Works, Much Marcle, Herefordshire during their visit to the county as part of their Rotary Friendship Exchange.

The Argentinian team leader, Maria Cacherio, presents the Mayor of Hereford, Councillor Julie Woodward with a ceremonial Mate cup.
 

Despite a volcanic ash cloud from neighbouring Chile closing Argentinean airspace for some considerable time, the visiting team of Rotarians from Greater Buenos Aires made it safely to the UK, albeit somewhat delayed. Eight of the ten visitors got to Bristol for the first part of the reciprocal exchange trip, while the last two only made it to Herefordshire on the final Friday of the two week programme.

The 'north' took over eight of the visitors at a 'hand-over' lunch in a snazzy restaurant on Gloucester Quays. In attendance apart from hosts and guest drivers from both Bristol and Hereford / Worcester were RIBI President Jim Moulson and DG Chris Fairhead. A 'scenic' trip back to Herefordshire and Worcestershire saw the guests safely at home with their new hosts - Mike and Sue Aubrey, David and Mari Nowell, Alan and Anne Hudson and Jim and Joan Murphy (Malvern RC). Stewart and Eileen Gilbert were anxiously awaiting their guests - who were still stranded in Buenos Aires under the ash cloud.

Thursday brought the first formal events, when a visit to the Town Hall to meet the Mayor in her Parlour and to view the historic silverware, charters and civic regalia proved very popular. At one stage Miguel made an appearance dressed as an official sword carrier, much to the amusement of all. All were both intrigued and enthused by the content of the visit and were still talking about it days later. The Town Hall visit was followed by a tour of the Cathedral and, again, they were fascinated by the historic aspects of the building. Three-hundred years is a long time in Argentina and they were standing in a building where this would be considered 'modern'! By coincidence, the tower was open and most of the team took the opportunity to view Hereford from 'above'. Various dinner parties were arranged for the Thursday night, hosted by club Rotarians.

Friday saw a popular visit to the Morgan Car factory at Malvern in the morning, arranged by Jim Murphy (Malvern RC) and the Argentineans returned with bags full of sale items from the factory shop (but no cars), while at night they attended the Wacky Walk, where some took an active part in the perambulatory proceedings. At 8.11pm the final couple arrived in Hereford via National Express bus from Heathrow to complete the 'set', much to the relief of Stewart & Eileen.

Saturday was designated as a 'chill out' do as you please day and various trips and excursions were organised on a 'host and guest' basis. At night some were again hosted at further dinner parties, thanks to the generosity of other club Rotarians (and their wives).

The Black and White trail was the main attraction of the Sunday programme, and, once again, the Argentineans were trying to get their heads around our 'history', with parts of some buildings being 1,000 years old. It was interesting that one couple thought when they went on the Black & White Trail, they would be seeing some 'slavery' exhibits… Following the B&W villages, it was on to Mike Aubrey's for a splendid barbeque for hosts, visitors and other Rotarians.

Which just left the final Monday, when John Bulmer kindly opened his historic and fascinating restored home at Monnington Court for the visitors, who were visibly impressed and 'taken' by the building, decor and artefacts. Then it was on to Weston's Cider for a guided tour and lunch before heading home to get ready for the official presentation at Malvern. This took the form of a joint meeting between the two clubs - Hereford Wye Valley and Malvern, hosted by the latter. After a quality meal (only £11.00!), the formal presentation - including a travelogue film, video message from the Argentinean D4855 Governor and individual 'spots' for all the visitors - was followed by what Malvern President David Jones called 'an orgy of banner exchanges'. I cannot agree with the terminology, but I understand what he meant.

It was a spectacular end to a highly-successful exchange visit that showed Rotary up in the brightest light. The visitors proved to be a terrific group of people who provided much laughter and were great fun to have around, despite occasional language and pronunciation difficulties. I can't understate the real benefits of getting involved in these exchange trips - either as a visitor to foreign countries or just getting involved when they visit us. You learn so much from them and, in particular, this group enriched our lives for the short time they were with us. Please consider getting involved in other visits - if you don't then the only loser will be you.

So, MUCHOS, MUCHOS GRACIAS to all the hosts and all those club Rotarians who helped out with dinner parties, driving, barbeque duties etc. It was appreciated by all the guests.

   
Monday, February 7: History was made when three new members were inducted into membership of Hereford Wye Valley Rotary Club - including their first female member. Club president Alan Hudson is pictured above with new Rotarians Paul Merriman, Mary Perkins and Edward Spolnik. In his introductory welcome remarks, club president Alan said that he hoped all three would bring a new focus to the club and much-needed new ideas.
   
Monday, February 7: Club treasurer Alan Davies celebrated his 'Big 7' birthday in style by taking members on a nostalgic musical trip down the decades, ably assisted by his glamorous assistant (and wife) Carole. Fresh from an extended visit 'Down under' as members of the Barmy Army, their amusing quiz was well received and proved to be a real challenge to memories as club members struggled to remember which artist or composer went with which tune! To round off the evening he was presented with a special celebratory cake by new member Mary Perkins.

The magnificent celebratory cake presented to Alan Davies made by Rotarian Mary Perkins
   
Monday, January 31: Guest speaker at a meeting held in the Green Dragon Hotel was a Herefordshire agricultural entrepeneur - Heather Gorringe. She gave a lively and entertaining talk, her topic being 'Communication' and highlighted how the advent of modern technology had opened many business door and opportunities that would not have existed had it not been for this. However, she concluded that many of the attending Rotarians were probably 'Technology Dinosaurs', which was promptly agreed by those present!
   
Business Meeting, January 24: At the club's January business meeting it was reported that £926.17 was raised at the concert for Christmas, held at All Saints Church, Hereford on December 17. Three new members have been elected to the club and will be inducted at the clubs meeting on February 7. The postponed Christmas party was held on January 10 at Burghill Golf Course, with a total of fifty-eight attending. 2,500 items of tins and dry goods together with £224.14 was collected at the annual tin collection held this year at Tesco, Belmont. The items were distributed between Open Door, Age Concern, SAFFA, Drybridge House and SHYPP. £124.14 was handed to Open Door and £100.00 to SHYPP. £1,000.00 will be donated to the Hereford Heart Foundation towards the purchase of a Heart Echo Machine for use at the Hereford County Hospital. Also £200.00 to Barrs Court and Blackmarston Schools. It was agreed to support the annual schools 'Mock Magistrates' Competition with £250.00. Also, to support the Herefordshire Performing Arts Festival by presenting a prize of £75.00 and a framed certificate to the winner in the Young Speech and Drama Section together, with £25.00 towards the candidates travel fund.
   

JANUARY 2011: The club heard an informative and interesting talk relating to the increase in diabetes in the Herefordshire community, the causes, the cures and the consequences.

The topic proved to be especially relevant due to the fact that HWVRC is to undertake a Diabetes Footcare Aleviation project in the Carribean this year. Dr Roger Blandford and his footcare specialist collegue are pictured here (riight) after the talk.
 

JANUARY 2011 - AN AWARD FOR DEDICATION: A surprised club member and a past club President, Dick Brimacombe, was presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship award in the presence of his fellow Rotarians and guests on January 10. Dick has been involved in Rotary since 1988 and has served on many occasions as a club committee chairman and was club president in the Rotary year 2004/05. He has taken a keen interest in the Polio Plus Campaign, taking on the role of the club's Polio Plus campaign officer which has led to the club raising a significant sum towards Rotary's aim of the world-wide eradication of polio. In presenting Dick with the highest honour that Rotary can bestow on a member, President Alan praised Dick's dedication to every project he has been involved in.

The photograph shows President Alan Hudson, (left) presenting the award to Dick Brimacombe.

   
Monday, November 29: Ian Phillips was inducted to membership of Hereford Wye Valley Rotary at the Open Information meeting. President Alan Hudson is pictured with Ian after the ceremony.
   
Monday, November 29: The club's work in raising money for world-wide Polio Eradication - the organisation's major initiative - was recognised when PDG Stewart Gilbert handed over a special certificate, signed by Rotary International's world president John Kenny. He is seen (left) with 2009-10 club president Brian Hardy Bishop and 2010-2011 president Alan Hudson.
   
Monday, November 15, 2010: The club held an Open Information Meeting with invited guests. Two interesting presentations were given on the work of Rotary. The meeting was informal with a finger buffet and generated much interest from our guests, some of whom indicated that they will attend further meetings with the view of applying for membership.
   

October 2010: The club held a ten-pin bowling competition and social evening at The Grove, Leominster. Members and guests enjoyed some good sport, followed by a splendid meal. Winners were Ronnie Thomas and Peter Scott - both are seen above being presented with their prizes by Club President Alan Hudson (right).
   

Monday, September 27, 2010: The Club held its monthly business meeting. Among the items discussed were the following forthcoming events.

It was reported that the mice are in training for the Live Mouse Races to be held on Saturday, October 30 at Sutton St Nicholas Village Hall, starting at 7pm. Tickets £5.00 each - Under 14 years old £3.00. The price includes a Curry Supper. A Bar will be available. Also a Hallowe'en fancy dress prize for children. The profits will be donated to local youth and community charities. Tickets are available from club members.

On Monday the November 15 the club are inviting members of the public to an open Rotary Information meeting at Hedley Lodge, Belmont, Hereford at 7pm. A bar is available and a finger buffet will be served. Presentations will be given on the work of Rotary and, in particular, of the work of Hereford Wye Valley Rotary. Members of the public wishing to book a place please contact Rotarian Mike Aubrey on 01568 708097.

A charity performance of 'Sitting Pretty' by Amy Rosentall is to be held on Monday, November 22 at 7pm at the Powell Theatre, Church Street, Hereford in aid of Rotary Foundation charities. Tickets available from club members.

Tesco supermarket, Belmont have given their kind permission for the club to hold a collection on Saturday, December 4 from their customers of non-perishable goods to be distributed to local organisations and disadvantaged persons as Christmas food parcels.

   
The photo shows the organiser of the day Brian Read (right) presenting the Pat Ramage Trophy to Chris which will no doubt find pride of place for the coming year.
SEPTEMBER 2010: The annual Pat Ramage Golf Tournament was held at the Herefordshire Golf Club. Pat Ramage a founder member, past president and a Paul Harris Fellow died last year, the club has decided that this annual event, which Pat sponsored 26 years ago, will be continued in his memory. The competition is open to members of the club and invited guests. This year's winner was Chris Furber with 36 points, runner-up Ernie Danby with 32 points, 3rd Brian Read having the nearest to the 15th pin and Dick Makin came 4th. In the evening the weekly club meeting was held in the Golf Club House. After an enjoyable meal and good fellowship the prizes were presented.
 
September 2010: Hereford Wye Valley members helped to marshall the ladies' midnight 'Venus' Walk in aid of St Michael's Hospice. Club President Alan Hudson is seen above (left) all-a-sparkle at the start, while Rtn Dick Makin is pictured making friends with some of the colourful walkers.
   

AUGUST 2010: CLUB SENDS £1,000.00 AID TO PAKISTAN August 2010 The heaviest monsoon rain for eighty years in North West Pakistan has killed at least Two thousand people and Hundreds of thousands are left without shelter or access to food and clean water. The water supplies have been contaminated by the floods.

There are fears that diarrhoea, cholera and other water borne disease will spread among the homeless. Hereford Wye Valley Rotary Club have donated £500.00 from the clubs charity account and matched it with a further £500.00 from the club members' account making a total donation of £1,000.00 to the organisation 'Rotary Water Works' this organisation is run by the Chelwell Bridge Rotary Club.

Two hundred water survival boxes have been donated to Humanity First UK (a Moslem aid agency based in London) the Humanity First UK staff took on the responsibility for ensuring the swift transit through customs and the distribution to the families most in need.

Each Water-Survival Box costs £150.00 including the water-purification kit, other contents and air freight charges. The water-purification kit can process some three thousand litres of water providing for a family of four up to one year.

   
July 26, 2010. Hedley Lodge: Geoffrey Daniels spoke to members of the Club about his work in the local CID. In particular, he described the work undertaken by the forensic team investigating suspicious deaths. Members asked specific questions which enabled us to gain a more detailed description of his work. Chris Furber gave a much shorter, but wittier, vote of thanks .
August 1,2010. The club attended the Herefordshire Country Fair at Hampton Court, near Leominster, where they manned a very successful fund-raising 'Bottle Stall'.
August 2, 2010. Seventeen members enjoyed a pleasant summer evening at the Bowens, Fownhope. A meal of steak and sausages was expertly barbecued by Alan Creighton and Ernie Danby, the meal being served with a salad and potatoes, followed by strawberries and cream. As usual at this event, a putting competition was held and as luck would have it, the three lowest scores were all achieved by non-golfers, Alan Davies, Dick Brimacombe and Bob Izon, whose round included two holes in one. Thanks were expressed to Alan and Ernie for their catering, and to Brian Read and Chris Furber for organising the putting.
On Monday, August 16, District Assistant Governor Martin Perry gave an excellent presentation on the Diabetic FootCare Scheme organised by the Rotary Club of Ledbury. He gave details of a possible scheme in the Caribbean island of Dominique that could be funded by the three Hereford Clubs.Pictured at the event are (from left to right): Alan Hudson, President Hereford Wye Valley RC; Judith Golby, SVP Hereford Marches RC; Martin Perry, Ledbury RC and SDG; Frank Salisbury, President Chepstow RC; Gail Scott, President Hereford Marches RC; Colin Hunt, President Hereford RC.