Chitipi Primary School
Lilongwe Malawi Presented by Rtn Terry Atkinson and Rtn John Saynor.
We were given a very informative presentation by the Rotary Club of Northampton Becket, this project was to build classrooms at a school in Lilongwe Malawi.
Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the world but has Rotary clubs there, it was decided to work alongside the local club and create a project that would be of benefit to the community.
Malawi has a friendly population that is growing.
The Project started 1999. with lots of need for things like text books pencils paper etc etc in 2011 funds were raised to provide 2 new classrooms these were completed in 2012
A further project was to provide facilities for 550 children with 3 classrooms, after an appeal 16 volunteers from Becket did a renovation project. in 2022 there was also a need for Arisen Toilets at 20 village schools.
Some children are so happy that they can go to school that they walk 7km walk to get to school.
Another good idea was a Solar library of 100 units these are Solar lights that can be used at school or at home.
Funds were matched by the District 1070 Foundation Committee and also Matched again by Rotary International.
This is an example of the talks that the Rotary Club of Towcester organises for members and guests. So if you would like to know more about the many aspects of Rotary and what it does, particularly in the local community, then visit the Club's web site www.towcester-rotary.org.uk or send an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk.
Thursday 16th June The Rotary Club of Towcester was treated to a presentation by Rtn Bob Cooper on his career in F1 MOTOR SPORT. Bob started his career by becoming an engineering apprentice with British Aerospace before joining the Tyrrell Racing Team. He was involved in the construction of some of the famous Tyrrell race cars of the day. He described how designs were developed from the days of old, when designs were all developed on the 'drawing board' to the use of CAD, from 'hand made' manufacturing to the application of computers in the manufacturing process and the development of systems and materials that go in the construction of the modern F1 car. Bob's presentation gave an insight into the complexities of the modern racing car and in particular of the development of many safety features that protect drivers.
This is an example of the talks that the Rotary Club of Towcester organises for members and guests. So if you would like to know more about the many aspects of Rotary and what it does, particularly in the local community, then visit the Club's web site www.towcester-rotary.org.uk or send an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk.
RIVERCARE & BEACHCARE TRUST – on Thursday 2nd May at the Rotary Club of Towcester meeting we were treated to a talk by Sally Bird, the RiverCare and BeachCare Trust Programme Officer. Sally explained that the Trust supports a network of volunteer groups who work together to enhance the local waterways and coastal environments, minimising the amount of rubbish that collects in these areas. The Trust is based in East Anglia and has numerous volunteer teams located in the region, from the Thames to the Humber. The long-term plan is working with many independent organisations and schools, highlighting the importance of educating the young generation of the need of keeping the environment clean and rubbish free.
Over 2 million pieces of litter are dropped everyday in the UK, costing over £1 billion pa to clear which is eventually paid for by the general public.
Rivers and beaches are vital habitats for wildlife and inspiring places to be enjoyed. The volunteer groups clear litter, carry out ‘citizen science surveys’, campaign locally and help manage the habitat. This can include removing invasive species and surveying for otter and water vole. The volunteers also undertake water quality monitoring.
The Trust’s network is constantly growing, currently including 800 volunteers across 40 groups, supported by a team of project officers and funded mainly by the Anglian Water, who work in partnership with the Trust, endeavouring to set and maintain high levels of water quality.
This is part of Rotary in Towcester, being aware of environmental issues that affect us all. If you are interested in the work the Rotary Club of Towcester is involved with, then why not contact us by sending an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk, or visit the clubs web site www.towcester-rotary.org.uk . We meet most Thursday evenings at the Saracens Head Hotel, but please call ahead to book your place. 0758 35 61034 and speak to Howard
CLR DAVID TARBUN - SUPERFIT MAYOR OF TOWCESTER.
At The Rotary Club of Towcester's meeting on the 18th April at The Butcher's Arms , Green's Norton, the club was treated to an extremely interesting talk by Cllr David Tarbun. Prior to his latest episode, Cllr Tarbun has run several marathons and half marathons plus other long distance walks and runs. In 2022 he challenged himself to walk from Canterbury to Towcester, 120 miles over 4 1/2 days to raise monies for the Cynthia Spence's Hospice.
The 'bug' got to him and when he became mayor in 2023 he accepted the 'challenge' to walk the 125 mile route Queen Boudica marched from Colchester to Towcester to battle Roman oppression. In the process Cllr Tarbun raised monies for 'The Mayor's Charities'. He now has another 'walk' in mind!!! Barrow-in-Furness to Towcester in memory of his father.
Members and guests found the talk very uplifting. This is an example of the interests that the Rotary Club of Towcester has, particularly in the local community. If you want to know more about what Rotary does in Towcester then send an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk or visit the web site www.towcester-rotary.org.uk
The Buckingham Canal Society – Buckingham to Cosgrove
On Thursday night 4th April the Club was entertained by Athina Beckett of The Buckingham Canal Society (BCS) with a talk on the Cosgrove to Buckingham section of the Grand Union Canal. Initially built around 1800 and the first section came into operation in May 1801 but was not completed until 1811, with a total length of 10.75 miles
The BCS would like to see the canal reopened using the original alignment wherever possible bringing new life to the area and providing recreational opportunities and also extend the protection of the environment. It would also encourage new businesses to come into the area, The Society recognises that this is a long-term project and will take many years to complete. This will require a major investment in the scheme, but the Society feels that once completed it will bring considerable benefits to the area.
The Society has three major objectives:
1. “To promote the restoration of the Old Stratford and Buckingham Arms of the Grand Union Canal to full navigable order and to promote the maintenance and improvement of the Waterways in the interests of heritage, construction, biodiversity, water betterment and the local quality of life.”
2. “To promote the fullest use of the Waterway by all forms of water borne traffic and for all forms of water-related commercial, local amenity, tourist and recreational activity for public benefit and to use the restoration as a catalyst or wider social, economic and environmental regeneration in the areas neighbouring the canal.”
3. “To promote the education of the public in the history and use of the canals and waterways and Buckingham Canal in particular.”
For further details on the Buckingham Canal Society or to volunteer please contact them through:
Email: info@buckinghamcanal.org.uk
Website: www.buckinghamcanal.org.uk
Thursday 7th March Our speaker told us about THE DEPOT WEEDON BEC -
Here is President Paul thanking Doreen Addicott for her presentation.
This is just part of what the Rotary Club of Towcester does. It's not all hard work. If you would like to know more about what we do and enjoy the fellowship, please send an email to the secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk or visit our website www.towcester-rotary.org.uk or...call Howard on 0758 356 1034.
The club was entertained by a presentation from Doreen Addicott of the The Royal Ordnance Depot Museum, on the history of The Depot, Weedon Bec. In view of the fear of an invasion by Napoleon, the Government of the day decided to build an ordnance depot in a location that was furthest from the coast. In 1814 construction commenced and turned a small rural village into the central munitions and equipment storage facility for the British Army. With it's early links to the Grand Union Canal and later rail links it became a thriving community. For over 150 years the Depot stored and supplied everything the British Army needed to fight anywhere in the world. At one time it stored all the stock of the army's boots! During its history it was not only a storage depot, but a barracks, a hospital, a prison and even a stables. It had its own internal railway system as well as connections to the main railway system in the UK. It closed in 1965 and Weedon's part in British Military history faded away.
On the 15th February we had an interesting talk from Vie Spenser about "FEET...FEET...FEET" - many people forget about their feet as they are at the extremity of the body, but they are one of the most important parts of the body! Think about it!!! The Rotary Club of Towcester were treated to a most interesting talk about feet by #Karenspence who explained how important it is for them to be cared for..."look after your feet and they will look after you".
This is in a series of health related topics for the Rotary Club. If you would like to know more about Rotary then please send an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk, visit our web site www.towcester-rotary.org.uk or give Howard a call 07583 561034...
1st February 2024,
The Rotary Club of Towcester, members were given a presentation on the application of CPR and the use of a defibrillator. However, prior to the main presentation there was a preamble by Annie Simpson who is a founder of a local community not for profit group called 'HEARTBEATS'. This is a support group for people who have been affected by heart related conditions and in many cases, the mental trauma that follows heart operations.
This was followed by a presentation by Wayne, a fully qualified Paramedic, on the application of CPR and the use of a defibrillator. Wayne explained the myths surrounding CPR and the fear most people face when having to make those decisions that could mean the difference between life and death for the patient.
Everyone should learn the basics of CPR and the use of a defibrillator. They could be lifesavers.
This is another element of the Rotary Club of Towcester. If you would like to know more about what we do, send an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk or visit the web site www.towcester-rotary.org.uk or call Howard on 07583 561034
THE CLUB HAS AN OPEN EVENING ON WEDNESDAY, 28TH FEB AT THE MILL BREWERY FROM 7.00PM AND 9.00PM
Defibrillator Locations in Towcester.
The Masonic Centre, Northmpton Road
West Northamptonshire Council, The Forum
Nicholas Hawksmoor School, Balmoral Close
EMAS Ambulance NHS Trust Ambulance Station, Swinnyford Road
Towcester Centre for Leisure
Waitrose, Towcester
Towcester Veterinary Centre, Bransons Lane
The Peacock, High Street
WHAT HAS TOWCESTER DONE TO SUPPORT UKRAINE? 25th January 2024
Have you any unwanted medical items that you could donate.
Should you wish to make a donation to support Steve.
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Towcester-Ukraine-Spring-2024?utm_term=vBKVyaaQK
Well done Steve.
WHAT HAS TOWCESTER DONE TO SUPPORT UKRAINE? - Well at our meeting on the 25th January, the Rotary Club of Towcester was given an update on the support the town and district has given to the war affected population of the Ukraine.
Steve Challen as Project Manager who, on behalf of the Tove Benefice, has organised the supplies and vehicles that have been sent out to the Ukraine.
Again, the generosity of the people of Towcester was demonstrated as they stepped up in support, with donations of every type, clothing, food, medical supplies...even medical equipment. The Rotary Club of Towcester has given financial support to help with the cost of fuel.
If you would like to know more about Rotary in Towcester or Rotary in general then visit the club's website www.towcester-rotary.org.uk or an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk or call Howard on 0758 356 1034
02nd November, 2023
"REMEMBER, REMEMBER THE 5TH OF NOVEMBER" - Well at Rotary we we given a most enlightening talk on the Gun Powder plot by Rtn Colin.
All the characters were 'brought to life' as the plot unravelled and each member of the club had a part to play..
This is an example of the fun and fellowship part of Rotary. If you would like to know more, then why not come along a join us at a meeting. We usually meet in the Saracens Head on a Thursday evening from 6.30pm. For further information send an email to <secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk> or give Howard a call on 07583 561034
BROOK HOUSE - 11/10/2023
The residents of Brook House Care home were treated to a presentation by Rtn Mike from the Rotary Club of Towcester on his trip to the West Coast of Canada. Memories resurfaced when a number of residents recalled their trips to Canada.
This is part of the Towcester Club's fellowship in the community. If you would like to know more about Rotary in Towcester send an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk or call Howard on 0758 356 1304
Meeting 5th October, 2023
PARDON!....SPEAK UP!!....The cry we sometimes hear for speakers to speak up, but not our last Speaker on the 5th October presentation, which was made by Tiffany Sandquest, the audiologist at The Ear Place in Towcester. Tiffany gave an in-depth talk on hearing loss, some of the causes and the remedies.
Our hearing loss starts at the age of 25 and deteriorates as we grow older.
This is an example of the other side of Rotary, the one where we learn about aspects of life and enjoy meeting and fellowship. So, if you would like to know more about Rotary and how it works in Towcester why not come along to one of our meetings. Send an email to secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk or call Howard on 0758 3561034