BARNARD Castle Rotary Club held its inaugural meeting on October 17, 1939 – just six weeks after the declaration of war against Nazi Germany.
In the intervening 81 years, local Rotarians have been involved in countless educational and humanitarian programmes aimed at aiding communities local, national, and international. Every week, members have come together to discuss charitable activities and enjoy fellowship over a meal – frequently welcoming to their meetings inspirational guest speakers addressing topics of interest and value to members.
However, it is only recently that a decision was taken to offer a new style of Rotary – one aimed at those 21st century men and women whose work and family obligations make it difficult to join a traditional Rotary club – but who wish to volunteer their time and talents. Involvement in a Rotary Satellite E-Club allows members to “give something back” without the commitments associated with the more traditional club. Meetings are held, as required, using a virtual platform with members offering their skills to projects they have chosen and to which they feel able to contribute. On May 29, the Rotary Satellite E-Club of Barnard Castle (Teesdale) was inaugurated (over Zoom) with seven members of the local community being installed as members. Fiona Beadnell (head of English, Barnard Castle School), Peter Colley (management consultant), Rachel Dyne (operations director Teesdale YMCA), Sally McGrath (head of music, Teesdale School), Lesley Taylor (salesperson and community volunteer), Rachel Tweddle (CEO TCR Hub) and Richard Witham (retired chemist) were warmly welcomed into the world of Rotary by Rotarians from across the North East. Rotarian Colin Dunnighan said: “Please consider membership of this community orientated group as a way of using your skills, energy and enthusiasm to help support good causes without interfering unduly with your home or professional commitments.
“The founding members have agreed that their initial projects will tackle local environmental issues – specifically IT poverty, littering and plastic reduction. Come and join them. An exciting year lies ahead. Email me at BCRotaryForum@gmail.com for further information.”
Colin Dunnighan, Barnard Castle Rotary
