On Monday 15th March, the Rotary Club of Retford held its annual charity Swimathon at Retford Leisure Centre. The event was opened by the Chair of Bassetlaw District Council, Councillor Sue Shaw. Once again, a tremendous community effort resulted in more than £15,000 being pledged for local charities and organisations. Over 50 volunteers, Rotarians, partners, and friends worked throughout the day to achieve an enjoyable and successful event, led by Richard and Ros Cable, to whom a big debt of gratitude is owed.
The Rotary Club appreciates the effort put in and once again wishes to thank the parents / guardians and team leaders for their support and hard work in organising teams. In total, 25 teams representing 19 different organisations and community groups participated, with approximately 250 swimmers raising money for a wide range of good causes, including The Retford Swimming Club on their Club night and The Retford and District Life Savers during their Saturday morning training session.
This was made possible by the professional help and support provided to the Rotary Club organisers and BPL who manage the Leisure Centre.
A total of 40% of the money raised will go to the Rotary Club’s chosen charities, Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw and the new Children’s Assessment Unit at Bassetlaw Hospital. The remaining 60% is donated to local charities and organisations chosen by the participating teams, including Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, Riding for the Disabled, Thrumpton Project Playground, School Funds, Scout Funds, Motor Neurone Disease Association Nottinghamshire, the Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity, MIND, Action for Children, and Sheffield Children’s Hospital.
All swimmers received medals and certificates for their personal efforts. Trophies for various categories were presented by the Retford Town Mayor, Councillor David Naylor, at a presentation ceremony at Clarborough Village Hall on Saturday 22nd March.
Don’t forget a couple of upcoming events!
The plant sale on Retford Market on Saturday 17th May, organised by the International Committee, is fast approaching. There should be a good selection of plants and vegetables, with bargains to be had.
This year, the Charity Golf Day will be held at Retford Golf Club on Wednesday 23rd July. The event will primarily support the Bassetlaw Food Bank and the NSPCC, along with other local Rotary charities.
Applications for teams of four are still welcome by contacting mikedavis13@gmail.com or downloading an application form from the Club website. There is also an opportunity for any businesses wishing to sponsor the event to contact the Club to discuss.