During the summer, it is a time of change for officers in the Inner Wheel Club of Retford. Outgoing President Maureen Lilley thanked members for their support during her year in office. She now takes on the role of President of the Rotary Club of Worksop and so will still be part of the local circuit of events. Club members wish her a happy year.
Maureen has led the club in its support of the following charities; Joel, Nottinghamshire Women’s Aid, The Bluebell Wood Hospice and also donations after Hurricane Irma caused such harm to the British Territories and in Dominica. The club has given funds to Roll Out the Barrel, Breast Cancer Now, Santa for a Senior, the Food Bank and Canine Partners in support of the disabled. Members have donated items of soap, toiletries, bags, and jewellery through their ‘Joy Bags’ and made up simple bags of toys, balls, notebooks and crayons, as well as making up very many ‘Baby Bundles’. The club has also started to collect children’s clothes for two to six-year olds, to send in bags to Africa. Many thanks go to the ladies who knit and crochet items for this purpose. Members also collect stamps for the RSPB.
The club has welcomed five new members in the last year and have enjoyed a concert, a theatre trip and listening to a variety of speakers. Their meetings at Ye Olde Bell, start with a bit of business after a meal, and in August members enjoyed a very simple flower arranging activity which was good fun.
Members welcomed their new President, Natalie Perry. At a recent meeting Natalie, assisted by her daughter, gave a most interesting presentation. It gave the club insight into her training, work life, interests and her family. Her chosen charity for this year is Alzheimer’s Research UK.
The club will be running a market stall for international funds on Friday 7th September in Retford. Please show your support. They are always happy to welcome new members.