The work of a number of good causes has been given a boost after receiving a donation from Watford Rotary thanks to the generosity of the community.
Charities representing a range of support groups, including child and mental health, a women’s centre, a blind centre, carers, the disabled, a forces veterans support group and the Peace Hospice all received donations at the annual cheque presentation dinner at West Herts College.
This year’s president of Watford Rotary Malcolm Jones said: “This is what we work for during the year. It is the culmination of our efforts and through the generosity of the people of Watford, we were able to present cheques totalling over £12,000 to a number of local charities”.
The evening, hosted by Watford’s past president Richard Goates, began with a surprise presentation to Chris Luff MBE.
Chris Luff, left, with his Paul Harris Award, past president Richard Goates, centre, and current president Malcom Jones
Whilst not a member, the chief executive of Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce, played a fundamental role in organising the rebuilding of Watford Rotary’s Santa Sleigh with Warner Bros. Studios.
Not content with that, Chris was up early in the morning and late at night, helping to tow the sleigh to its collection points and through the streets of Watford.
In gratitude and recognition for his efforts, Malcolm presented Chris with the Paul Harris Award, the highest award Rotary can award for his outstanding contribution.
Watford Rotary also thanked Andy Wakeford, head of West Herts Food Academy and the students of the catering school for the food and service they provided.
Rotary supports the local community and gives something back. With 1.2 million members in 200 countries, Rotary International is also involved with promoting peace and coexistence, fighting disease, providing clean water in developing countries, supporting education and protecting the environment.
If you are interested in getting involved, contact watfordrotary@btinternet.com for more information, or see the organisation’s website at www.rotarygbi.org
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