Torbay Rotary round-up: Date set for return of Babbacombe Fayre

Torbay Rotary round-up with Rotarian Kathy Uglow:

After many years of absence, the popular Babbacombe Fayre is set to return this summer and promises to be bigger and better than before.

This much-loved family fun day on the Downs was traditionally held in June, but due to popular demand will now take place on Sunday, August 13.

Organisers from the Rotary Club of Torbay Sunrise will be hosting an exciting packed programme of attractions including stalls, activities, live entertainment and a fun dog show, as well as food and refreshments. Torbay Hospital Radio will also be in attendance with music and live radio interviews.

ShelterBox launches emergency appeal

Following the recent terrible earthquakes in Türkiye, formerly Turkey, and Syria, ShelterBox has launched an emergency fundraising appeal to help those affected.

This charity was founded by Rotary clubs from Cornwall and continues to receive considerable support from Rotary clubs across the country. Therefore, many of Torbay’s Rotary clubs have responded with immediate donations to aid the homeless people affected by these earthquakes which have destroyed around 11,000 buildings.

ShelterBox is considering different combinations of emergency shelter aid and essential household items. This could be sending tents and shelter kits, stoves, thermal blankets and clothing to keep people warm through the freezing winter nights, or solar lights that help people when there is no electricity.

John Cleverley, spokesman of the Rotary engagement team, said: “A response team is currently travelling to Türkiye, and we’re speaking with our existing partners and Rotary District Governors on the ground to understand how we might provide the right support where it is needed most.”

If you would like to assist Shelterbox to provide communities affected by the earthquakes with practical and lifesaving aid, then donations can be made by visiting www.shelterbox.org

Totnes Rotary Club is running a Big Band Concert on Friday, February 24, with the proceeds in aid of ShelterBox supporting their relief work in Ukraine. There will be a bar and music by the South Devon Big Band with dancing by the South West Lindy Hoppers. The event will take place at Totnes Civic Hall.

Tickets cost £10 in advance or £12 on the door. For more information visit www.totnesrotary.co.uk

District conference comes to Torquay

Rotary’s 1175 District Conference will this year take place at the English Riviera International Conference Centre in Torquay on March 4 and 5 with the theme 'Rotarians against Poverty'.

The conference’s keynote speaker will be Derrick Evans - Mr Motivator - and members will be showcasing some major forthcoming Rotary projects for 2023.

The event also offers a good opportunity to network with members from around the district and browse the many charity stalls in the House of Friendship exhibition arena.

For more information visit www.1175districtconferencetorquay.org

Dosey doe your partner

The Rotary Club of Paignton have organised their annual barn dance to take place on Saturday, April 22, at The Arena, Paignton Academy BRC in Borough Road, Paignton. Music on the night will be courtesy of Stargazy and a supper will be included in the ticket price of £15.

For more information, contact Tony Smyth on 07826 099 580.