Rotary ready to help in disasters

The local club has raised a healthy five figure sum this year for projects at home and overseas, with a large portion of that coming from the Christmas ‘Tree of Life’ project at Tesco.

As members looked forward to another year of hard work (and enjoyed an event which itself raised over £1,000), there was time to commend the excellent work on the ground in the disaster zone, which is being spearheaded by Rotary International in Japan.

Rotary International President-Nominee, Sakuji Tanaka of The Rotary Club of Yashio this week expressed gratitude to Rotarians worldwide for the speed with which they have mobilised assistance. Whilst UK rescue workers were at times impeded by red tape, Rotary’s international character means it could identify those at the location who could cut through the bureaucracy and quickly bring the help to those in most need.

Local Rotarian, Angelo Marano, said he was especially happy to host this event because he himself comes from an earthquake zone.

“My hometown in Sicily has been destroyed several times by volcanic eruption, tsunami and earthquake. I know exactly how important the International work of Rotary can be.” Angelo said.

“Whether it be in New Zealand, Pakistan, Haiti or Japan, Rotary International is always in the front line providing temporary accommodation and other relief essentials when any natural disaster occurs” commented Jim Matchett, an organiser of the Spring Supper.

Although this event was about club funds for essential equipment, the local club continues to look outwards and the spring Supper set the optimistic tone for the club’s hope to continue to help wherever possible in the year ahead.