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Sunrise Club behind variety of events from Babbacombe Fair to Fleet Walk Christmas Grotto
Linda Baker
Reporter:
Jim Parker
06 Apr 2025 10:00 AM
Email:
jim.parker@clearskypublishing.co.uk
A leading Torbay Rotary club is appealing for new members.
A leading Torbay Rotary club is appealing for new members.
The Rotary Club of Torquay-based Torbay Sunrise is a vibrant, modern crew shaking up the traditional image of Rotary – one smile at a time.
Most Wednesday mornings, you’ll find them at the iconic Grand Hotel, sipping tea, swapping stories, and plotting ways to support local children’s charities. Once a month, they trade the hotel for a special gathering at the Royal Torbay Yacht Club.
Rotary itself has been around for 120 years, born as a men-only business networking group with restricted occupations. Today, it’s a global force with 1.4 million members across 35,000 clubs in 200 countries – including 1,500 in the UK – dedicated to making a positive impact locally, nationally, and internationally.
Through its own charity, the Rotary Foundation, over $100 million in grants are distributed annually for humanitarian and educational projects, like the near-eradication of polio (cases are down 99.9% in 35 years) and disaster relief alongside official partner Shelterbox. But here in Torbay, it’s all about boots-on-the-ground community spirit.
Their mission? Raising funds and rolling up their sleeves for those who need it most, especially kids. In a place as stunning as the English Riviera, no child should go without, and they’re committed to keeping it that way. Every penny they raise fuels local treasures like Children’s Hospice South West, Feed a Child during school holidays, and groups like Mencap, Devon in Sight, and Watcombe Primary School.
Across the Bay, nine Rotary clubs work tirelessly on these efforts, but as Torbay Sunrise President Linda Baker explains: "More volunteers are needed to meet the growing demand. We’ve adapted to today’s busy lifestyles – you can join us for a quick 8am meeting, an evening catch-up, or become a Friend of Rotary and help when you can. The choice is yours.”
Take their annual Santa’s Grotto at Torquay’s Fleet Walk, a 34-year tradition that welcomed 600 families last December. Or consider Babbacombe Fayre, their August extravaganza drawing hundreds of locals and visitors, boosting over 100 stallholders and nearby businesses.
It's not all serious business, though. Think quirky quizzes, hands-on volunteering, and plenty of good times. Whether you’re a Torquay local, a business wanting to flex your corporate social responsibility, or just someone who cherishes Torbay’s community vibe, there’s a spot for you.
Businesses can get in on the action too. Torbay Sunrise, a registered Rotary charity with funds reported annually to the Charity Commission, vets countless applications to ensure donations deliver maximum impact. Sponsorship opportunities offer brand exposure and a chance to show community commitment.
If you're interested in learning more about Torbay Sunrise, drop by their open evening at the Royal Torbay Yacht Club on Wednesday April 23 at 6pm for drinks and nibbles or contact Linda Baker attorbaysunrise@outlook.com.
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