Join Rotary join the Action!
The Gondoliers
Our popular Open Air Concert was held this year in the Castle Quad at Berkhamsted School. The historic backdrop was perfect for this classic Gilbert & Sullivan gem. Performed by Illyria’s cast of 6 with plenty of cross dressing and speedy costume changes. Delightful singing was mixed with inspired comic acting. True to its origins, light-hearted humour was brought up to date with many a topical reference. Our audience entered into the spirit of the occasion with posh picnics: candlesticks, canapes and champagne. The rain held off until the curtain fell - to the second!
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
1
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
1
Join Rotary and Join the Action!
The Gondoliers
Our popular Open Air Concert was held this year in the Castle Quad at Berkhamsted School. The historic backdrop was perfect for this classic Gilbert & Sullivan gem. Performed by Illyria’s cast of 6 with plenty of cross dressing and speedy costume changes. Delightful singing was mixed with inspired comic acting. True to its origins, light- hearted humour was brought up to date with many a topical reference. Our audience entered into the spirit of the occasion with posh picnics: candlesticks, canapes and champagne. The rain held off until the curtain fell - to the second!
NEWS
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
2
Every year Berkhamsted Rotary Club joins with the Town Council to make two
Civic Awards (one for adults and a Junior Civic Award for under 18s). They
recognise special contributions to the local community.
This year’s junior winner was 14 year old Nathan Whale who is known for his
Nate’s Bakes stall in the market - which generates enjoyment for his many
customers and regular donations to charities.
Here the Rotary President Mike Hart gives Nathan his award at the Town
Meeting.
Winning Schools: (Clockwise) Westbrook Hay (Foundation), Adeyfield (Intermediate) and John F Kennedy
(Advanced). Longdean won the Team prize.
- Gru appeared courtesy of Adeyfield School.
English Athletics Adjudicator’s Comments about the Half Marathon:
The Adjudicator mentioned the excellent organisation in general and the marshalling and first aid provision in
particular.
“This was a very popular race run by the local Rotary Club and attracted almost 1000 runners. The organising team
could be proud of themselves for putting on a flawless race which was enjoyed by the participants.."
Santa Visits Berkhamsted 2023
During the month of December Rotary start their festivities with the Elves Posting House at the Berkhamsted Festival of Light. Children write their letters to Father Christmas at the posting house. This year 370 children popped in to see Mrs Claus. All funds raised were donated to the Swan Youth Project. It’s then time for Santa to start his visits around the residential streets of the town. 19 local charities and organisations supported us this year to collect each night during December. Despite rain, frost, snow and ice and thanks to the generosity of our town we raised £13,672 which was split out to all the groups that supported us.
Berkhamsted Civic Awards 2024
Student briefings on humanitarian crises.
What happens when natural and manmade disasters occur? The horrors of Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan and the ravages of Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean are current examples. The short answer is that ordinary peoples’ lives and livelihoods are upended. Close to the end of their summer terms Berkhamsted Rotary Club ran Humanitarian Disaster Briefing joint sessions for some 170 Lower Sixth students from Ashlyns and Berkhamsted Schools. The purpose of the briefings was to introduce participants to the humanitarian sector and its responses and to map out career opportunities. Harriette Purchas, a local Mum and experienced Humanitarian Engineer, facilitated the sessions hosted by Ashlyns School. Fiona Tan from Save the Children described her own career in this US$ 50 billion sector where some 380 million people are impacted by humanitarian crises worldwide. Berkhamsted resident John Borton from Herts Welcomes Refugees spoke of local aspects where the charity has 140 volunteers supporting 350 resettled refugees across Hertfordshire and 500 asylum seekers living in 6 hotels and dispersed accommodation in our area. Many students said the event gave them new understanding and opened their eyes to new perspectives. A number from both schools are keen to volunteer locally. This is the third year Rotary has organized these events with the aim to promote peace and understanding through practical action and the ethos of “Service above Self”.
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
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NEWS
Schools Technology Tournament 2024
Winning Schools: (Clockwise) Westbrook Hay (Foundation), Adeyfield
(Intermediate) and John F Kennedy (Advanced).
Longdean won the Team prize. (Gru appeared courtesy of Adeyfield
School).
Santa Visits Berkhamsted 2023
During the month of December Rotary start their festivities with the Elves Posting House at the Berkhamsted Festival of Light. Children write their letters to Father Christmas at the posting house. This year 370 children popped in to see Mrs Claus. All funds raised were donated to the Swan Youth Project. It’s then time for Santa to start his visits around the residential streets of the town. 19 local charities and organisations supported us this year to collect each night during December. Despite rain, frost snow and ice and thanks to the generosity of our town we raised £13,672 which was split out to all the groups that supported us.
English Athletics Adjudicator’s Comments about the
Half Marathon:
The Adjudicator mentioned the excellent organisation in general and the marshalling and first aid provision in particular. “This was a very popular race run by the local Rotary Club and attracted almost 1000 runners. The organising team could be proud of themselves for putting on a flawless race which was enjoyed by the participants.."Every year Berkhamsted Rotary Club joins with the Town
Council to make two Civic Awards (one for adults and a
Junior Civic Award for under 18s). They recognise special
contributions to the local community.
This year’s junior winner was 14 year old Nathan Whale who is known for his Nate’s Bakes stall in the market - which generates enjoyment for his many customers and regular donations to charities. Here Rotary President 2023/4 Mike Hart gives Nathan his award at the Town Meeting.Student briefings on humanitarian crises.
What happens when natural and manmade disasters occur? The horrors of Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan and the ravages of Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean are current examples. The short answer is that ordinary peoples’ lives and livelihoods are upended. Close to the end of their summer terms Berkhamsted Rotary Club ran Humanitarian Disaster Briefing joint sessions for some 170 Lower Sixth students from Ashlyns and Berkhamsted Schools. The purpose of the briefings was to introduce participants to the humanitarian sector and its responses and to map out career opportunities. Harriette Purchas, a local Mum and experienced Humanitarian Engineer, facilitated the sessions hosted by Ashlyns School. Fiona Tan from Save the Children described her own career in this US$ 50 billion sector where some 380 million people are impacted by humanitarian crises worldwide. Berkhamsted resident John Borton from Herts Welcomes Refugees spoke of local aspects where the charity has 140 volunteers supporting 350 resettled refugees across Hertfordshire and 500 asylum seekers living in 6 hotels and dispersed accommodation in our area. Many students said the event gave them new understanding and opened their eyes to new perspectives. A number from both schools are keen to volunteer locally. This is the third year Rotary has organized these events with the aim to promote peace and understanding through practical action and the ethos of “Service above Self”.
About Us
Berkhamsted Rotary is founded on 80 years of Rotary activity in the town. We are a group of individuals from many walks of life and, with 54 members, we are one of the largest Rotary clubs in Beds, Bucks and Herts. We use our time and energy to support young people and to improve the lives of the elderly, vulnerable and disadvantaged both here and overseas. We organise charity events (such as our Half Marathon and Fireworks Night) to raise funds. Charitable causes are supported via the Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO which is a UK Registered Charity No. 1182564. This year we are donating some £42,000 to support many worthwhile causes both at home and overseas. We work as a team and have a good time in the process. Friendships are developed through our club activities and also social events such as our monthly and annual walks. We normally meet for dinner each Tuesday, usually at Berkhamsted Town Hall in the centre of Berkhamsted, at 7:30 for 8:00 pm.Our 2022/2023 President, Paul Dubbins, explains how he became a Rotarian and what it means to
him.
This story is becoming a bit of an old aphorism. Move to Berkhamsted, seek out Rotary, find friends. We have been in Berkhamsted for only 6 years and I have been a member of the Rotary Club just over 4 of those. I had always thought that Rotary was a dining club for old men and it is true that a number of us have been around the block a few times…but a dining club..not really. The club is seeing an ever more diverse membership and exploiting the wider reach of social media to deliver our message, although perhaps not yet ready for TikTok! I have been amazed by the contribution the club makes to life within Berkhamsted; from the Fireworks to the Half Marathon, the Outdoor Concert to Santa’s sleigh, working with local schools to promote art, photography and public speaking, as well as working with local charities. We raise quite a lot of money for local, national and international charities, and you could ask why we do this? Altruism, a bit; “giving back” a hackneyed phrase but I guess so; but I think most of all it is to be involved with a group of people who really enjoy working with each other and sharing our enthusiasm with the whole of the community Berkhamsted is a great place, and, I think, all the better for the efforts of Rotary.…and yes, I have made new friends. I am honoured to serve as President for this year and look forward to meeting some of you at one or other of our many events
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
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About Us
Berkhamsted Rotary is founded on 80 years of Rotary activity in the town. We are a group of individuals from many walks of life and, with 54 members, we are one of the largest Rotary clubs in Beds, Bucks and Herts. We use our time and energy to support young people and to improve the lives of the elderly, vulnerable and disadvantaged both here and overseas. We organise charity events (such as our Half Marathon and Fireworks Night) to raise funds. Charitable causes are supported via the Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO which is a UK Registered Charity No. 1182564. This year we are donating some £42,000 to support many worthwhile causes both at home and overseas. We work as a team and have a good time in the process. Friendships are developed through our club activities and also social events such as our monthly and annual walks. We normally meet for dinner each Tuesday, usually at Berkhamsted Town Hall in the centre of Berkhamsted, at 7:30 for 8:00 pm.Our 2022/2023 President, Paul Dubbins, explains
how he became a Rotarian and what it means to
him.
This story is becoming a bit of an old aphorism. Move to Berkhamsted, seek out Rotary, find friends. We have been in Berkhamsted for only 6 years and I have been a member of the Rotary Club just over 4 of those. I had always thought that Rotary was a dining club for old men and it is true that a number of us have been around the block a few times…but a dining club..not really. The club is seeing an ever more diverse membership and exploiting the wider reach of social media to deliver our message, although perhaps not yet ready for TikTok! I have been amazed by the contribution the club makes to life within Berkhamsted; from the Fireworks to the Half Marathon, the Outdoor Concert to Santa’s sleigh, working with local schools to promote art, photography and public speaking, as well as working with local charities. We raise quite a lot of money for local, national and international charities, and you could ask why we do this? Altruism, a bit; “giving back” a hackneyed phrase but I guess so; but I think most of all it is to be involved with a group of people who really enjoy working with each other and sharing our enthusiasm with the whole of the community Berkhamsted is a great place, and, I think, all the better for the efforts of Rotary.…and yes, I have made new friends. I am honoured to serve as President for this year and look forward to meeting some of you at one or other of our many events
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
3
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
4
2024 Open Air Concert
Castle Quad provided a wonderful ambience
An enchanting rendition that provided an
evening of laughter, music, and pure
entertainment.
Set in picturesque Venice, this lighthearted operetta whisks audiences away to a world of
romance, mistaken identities, and comedic chaos.
The story revolves around two charming gondoliers,
Marco and Giuseppe, who suddenly find themselves
elevated to the status of royalty. Tasked with choosing
their queen from a bevy of beautiful women, hilarity
ensues as the true identity of the rightful queen
becomes entangled.
With catchy melodies and witty lyrics, Illyria brings the
vivacious characters to life, captivating audiences with
their impeccable comedic timing and exuberant
performances. As the plot thickens and the absurdity
reaches its peak, love triumphs, and the gondoliers
discover that happiness lies not in noble titles but in the
simplicity of true love.
Sponsored by
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
4
An enchanting rendition that provided an evening of
laughter, music, and pure entertainment.
Set in picturesque Venice, this lighthearted operetta whisks
audiences away to a world of romance, mistaken identities, and
comedic chaos.
The story revolves around
two charming gondoliers,
Marco and Giuseppe, who
suddenly find themselves
elevated to the status of
royalty. Tasked with
choosing their queen from
a
bevy of beautiful women,
hilarity ensues as the true
identity of the rightful
queen becomes entangled.
With catchy melodies and
witty lyrics, Illyria brings the
vivacious characters to life,
captivating audiences with their impeccable comedic timing and
exuberant performances. As the plot thickens and the absurdity
reaches its peak, love triumphs, and the gondoliers discover that
happiness lies not in noble titles but in the simplicity of true love.
2024 Open Air Concert
Castle Quad provided a wonderful ambience
Sponsored by
We have fun working together within teams on our various projects. If Rotary sounds like the organisation for you and
you feel able to get involved or volunteer some of your precious spare time, we’d like to hear from you! Simply email our
membership officer for an informal chat.
Get Involved
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
5
Get Involved
We have fun working together within teams on our various
projects. If Rotary sounds like the organisation for you and
you feel able to get involved or volunteer some of your
precious spare time, we’d like to hear from you! Simply email
our membership officer for an informal chat.
What is Rotary?
We are part of
Rotary International,
which comprises
more than 33,000
Rotary Clubs across
the world. There are
some 50,000
members in over
1,750 Clubs in Great
Britain and Ireland.
We share a common
vision for better
communities and
work together to
achieve it.
Rotary International
supports worldwide
programmes to
reduce poverty,
disease and
inadequate living
conditions. Rotary's
global initiative to
eradicate Polio has
been very successful
with only 2 countries
left where it is still
endemic.
We actively support
some very
worthwhile
overseas projects
but the majority of
our effort and fund
raising is
nonetheless devoted
to charitable causes
within our own local
community.
Who are we?
We are a group of
individuals from
many walks of life.
We normally meet
on Tuesday
evenings in
Berkhamsted for a
meal, usually with
an interesting after
dinner speaker; one
meeting each
month is devoted
to planning and
organising our
activities.
However we
recognise that time
is at a premium for
working people
with family and
work commitments
... so our members
ensure that family
and work come first
by attending
whatever meetings
work for them.
We work with local
schools to organise
challenging
competitions for
students and
provide days out
for the elderly and
for disadvantaged
young people. We
organise events to
raise money for
local and overseas
charities.
Your skills and
experience could be
invaluable in our
drive to help
communities at
home and around
the world. Whether
you become a
member of Rotary or
volunteer your time
and abilities to your
local club, you will be
helping to make
people’s lives better.
If you'd like to make
a contribution there
are many ways to
get involved with
Rotary:
you could join
Rotary and open
up a world of
opportunities.
you could donate
to one of our
Club's initiatives
you could
volunteer to speak
at our Club about
a cause which
interests you
if you are a school
pupil, you could
take part in a
Rotary
competition
you could
volunteer to help
the Club in one of
its initiatives,
without becoming
a Rotary member
Join Us!
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
5
Volunteering Work with Rotary Changes Lives
Fund raising is, of course, an important part of our activities but equally helping implement community projects, such as running outings for the elderly and disabled or ferrying folk to visit family members in hospital is also what we do. Each year Berkhamsted Rotary manages lots of these community projects - and although we have 60 members, we still need the help of all those lovely people who come along and help us. As an example, on the day of our Half Marathon and Fun Run we need a team of some 120 stewards and marshals to ensure the safety of competitors and the general public; we can't do this on our own! So if you feel that you'd like to help out or if you have a special skill that might be of benefit to the community, please get in touch with us and maybe we can work out how you might volunteer in a way which suits your particular circumstances. You can contact us
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
6
Volunteering Work with Rotary
Changes Lives
Fund raising is, of course, an important part of our activities but equally helping implement community projects, such as running outings for the elderly and disabled or ferrying folk to visit family members in hospital is also what we do. Each year Berkhamsted Rotary manages lots of these community projects - and although we have 60 members, we still need the help of all those lovely people who come along and help us. As an example, on the day of our Half Marathon and Fun Run we need a team of some 120 stewards and marshals to ensure the safety of competitors and the general public; we can't do this on our own! So if you feel that you'd like to help out or if you have a special skill that might be of benefit to the community, please get in touch with us and maybe we can work out how you might volunteer in a way which suits your particular circumstances. You can contact us
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
6
What We Do
What We Do
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
7
Rotary in 100 words
Rotary is one of the world’s leading membership and humanitarian service organisations, with 1.2
million members globally.
Through membership of their local club, individuals volunteer on community and humanitarian
projects which make a difference locally, nationally and globally.
Rotary members are determined to tackle the world’s biggest issues, including promoting peace,
fighting disease, supporting education and so much more.
Rotary was formed as a networking organisation and this still plays a part in Rotary life today.
Rotary provides the opportunity to expand personal and professional circles, meet new people and
make lasting friendships, all while having fun in the process.
Rotary in 100 words
Rotary is one of the world’s leading
membership and humanitarian service
organisations, with 1.2 million members
globally.
Through membership of their local club,
individuals volunteer on community and
humanitarian projects which make a
difference locally, nationally and globally.
Rotary members are determined to tackle
the world’s biggest issues, including
promoting peace, fighting disease,
supporting education and so much more.
Rotary was formed as a networking
organisation and this still plays a part in
Rotary life today. Rotary provides the
opportunity to expand personal and
professional circles, meet new people and
make lasting friendships, all while having
fun in the process.
What We Do
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
7
- THE COMMUNITY
Local Community Projects
- LOCAL SCHOOLS
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
8
- Wider Community
Local Community Projects
- Local Schools
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
8
Donations & Grants
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
9
Donations & Grants
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
9
Overseas
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
10
Overseas
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
10
Why sponsors and supporters are important
Nearly every community and fund raising event that we organise has associated costs; for instance the costs of putting on our Annual Fireworks display for
the town typically exceeds £10,000. Even putting on on our annual Technology Tournament for young students costs in excess of £1,000.
In recent years year our charity Trust Fund has typically managed to generate an annual net income of more than £40,000 which is then disbursed as
donations to various charitable causes. We could not, however, achieve this without the generous support of sponsors ... both those who provide financial
support and also those who support us in kind by providing essential services free of charge. Please follow link to our filings with the Charity Commission:
https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/5138269
Why not become a sponsor?
Could you use a higher profile in Berkhamsted and the surrounding area? Would you and your staff enjoy working with us on worthwhile, inspirational and
fun projects that benefit the local community or contribute to humanitarian initiatives around the world? Do you wish to put corporate social responsibility
and sustainability as core values of your brand? If so, would you consider supporting Berkhamsted Rotary?
By becoming a sponsor you can not only benefit really worthwhile causes, but we will ensure that your support receives the recognition it deserves on our
websites and in our social media and publicity material. We're particularly keen to establish working partnerships with sponsors and to tap in to the skills
and enthusiasm of your staff.
If youwould like more information about sponsorship possibilities then please contact Paul Franc on 07914 258788.
or download our
Support Us
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
11
Why sponsors and supporters are important
Nearly every community and fund raising event that we organise
has associated costs; for instance the costs of putting on our
Annual Fireworks display for the town typically exceeds £10,000.
Even putting on on our annual Technology Tournament for young
students costs in excess of £1,000.
In recent years year our charity Trust Fund has typically managed
to generate an annual net income of more than £40,000 which is
then disbursed as donations to various charitable causes. We
could not, however, achieve this without the generous support of
sponsors ... both those who provide financial support and also
those who support us in kind by providing essential services free of
charge. Please follow link to our filings with the Charity
Commission: https://register-of-
charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-
details/5138269
Why not become a sponsor?
Could you use a higher profile in Berkhamsted and the
surrounding area? Would you and your staff enjoy working with us
on worthwhile, inspirational and fun projects that benefit the local
community or contribute to humanitarian initiatives around the
world? Do you wish to put corporate social responsibility and
sustainability as core values of your brand? If so, would you
consider supporting Berkhamsted Rotary?
By becoming a sponsor you can not only benefit really worthwhile
causes, but we will ensure that your support receives the
recognition it deserves on our websites and in our social media
and publicity material. We're particularly keen to establish working
partnerships with sponsors and to tap in to the skills and
enthusiasm of your staff.
If youwould like more information about sponsorship possibilities
then please contact Paul Franc on 07914 258788.
or download our
Support Us
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
11
NEWS
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
12
Schools Technology Tournament 2024
Winning Schools: Westbrook Hay (Foundation), Adeyfield (Intermediate) and John F Kennedy (Advanced). Longdean
won the Team prize.
- Gru appeared courtesy of Adeyfield School.
English Athletics Adjudicator’s Comments about the Half Marathon:
The Adjudicator mentioned the excellent organisation in general and the marshalling and first aid provision in particular. “This was a very popular race run by the local Rotary Club and attracted almost 1000 runners. The organising team could be proud of themselves for putting on a flawless race which was enjoyed by the participants.."
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
12
NEWS
Schools Technology Tournament 2024
Winning Schools: Westbrook Hay (Foundation), Adeyfield
(Intermediate) and John F Kennedy (Advanced).
Longdean won the Team prize. (Gru appeared courtesy of Adeyfield
School).
English Athletics Adjudicator’s Comments about the Half Marathon:
The Adjudicator mentioned the excellent organisation in general and the marshalling and first aid provision in particular. “This was a very popular race run by the local Rotary Club and attracted almost 1000 runners. The organising team could be proud of themselves for putting on a flawless race which was enjoyed by the participants.."
Santa Visits Berkhamsted 2023
During the month of December Rotary start their festivities with the Elves Posting House at the Berkhamsted Festival of Light. Children write their letters to Father Christmas at the posting house. This year 370 children popped in to see Mrs Claus. All funds raised were donated to the Swan Youth Project. It’s then time for Santa to start his visits around the residential streets of the town. 19 local charities and organisations supported us this year to collect each night during December. Despite rain, frost snow and ice and thanks to the generosity of our town we raised £13,672 which was split out to all the groups that supported us.
We normally meet on Tuesday evenings
(except after a bank holiday) at the
Town Hall in the centre of Berkhamsted
7:30 for 8:00 pm. (postcode HP4 3AP).
We will protect the information you send us in accordance
with the General Data Protection Regulations, as described
in the RIBI Privacy Policy.
Have a closer look ….
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
13
We normally meet
on Tuesday
evenings (except
after a bank
holiday) at the
Town Hall in the
centre of
Berkhamsted 7:30
for 8:00 pm.
(postcode HP4
3AP).
We will protect the information you
send us in accordance with the
General Data Protection Regulations,
as described in the RIBI Privacy
Policy.
Have a
closer
look ….
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
13
aaaa
•
Committees and Club Officers
•
Club Programme
•
Members' List
•
Electing a Rotarian
•
RIBI Membership Form
•
Club Procedures
•
ByLaws
•
The Bugle
Information for Members
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
14
Information for Friends of Berkhamsted Rotary
• Club Programme • How to book in for a meeting • Sign Up to help with an Event
Information for Members
•
Committees and Club Officers
•
Club Programme
•
Members' List
•
Electing a Rotarian
•
RIBI Membership Form
•
Club Procedures
•
ByLaws
•
The Bugle
Berkhamsted Rotary Trust Fund CIO
14
Information for Friends
of Berkhamsted Rotary
• Club Programme • How to book in for a meeting • Sign Up to help with an Event