DG Dave’s June Newsletter

Dave’s Diary 

The Monthly Newsletter of the District Governor

31st May 2013

Sponsored Walk for Bluebell Wood and Rainbows

Well, we did it. Andy Ledbetter (Dronfield), Kevin Brown (Sherwood Sunrisers), Owen Briggs (Ripley) and myself walked the whole route from Bluebell Wood to Rainbows. Phil Stone walked three days of it but in addition walked 26 kms whilst on holiday in Spain the week before – just so he could say he had done the full distance.

We were joined by members and supporters from at least fourteen Rotary Clubs. In addition my two daughters Nicola and Sarah with their four children Maddie, Francesca, Xanthe and Sebastian (together with quite a few family friuends) all came and joined the walk in the Belper area – with banners and baloons creating a real party atmosphere at a time when I was feeling very sore and tired. I’m not sure exactly how many people ended up walking a part of the route with us, but it was well over thirty. Thanks to all of you.

As well as the walkers, on the final day, my sons in law Craig McAughtrie and Chris Tatham, together with Chris’s brother John and a friend “Nog” rode their bikes from Belper to Bluebell Wood and then on to Rainbows – a total of 107 miles for the same cause. The hope was that they would arrive at Rainbows about the same time as the walkers.

As Gail and Carey Toplass leading in the support car and all the walkers reached a point about 100 yards away from Rainbows Steve Lawes said to me, “Wouldn’t it be great if the cyclists turned up now.” As they had been out of contact all day we had no idea where they were, but I happened at that moment to turn and look behind me – just in time to see all four of them come riding into view. We were then all able to enter Rainbows en mass.

Our reception there was great with bunting and lines of people, staff, supporters, residents and their families, all cheering us on as we arrived. We then enjoyed a cream tea reception which was a great way of rounding off the four days. Rainbows are also having a glass brick in their wall dedicated to the walk.

I want to take this opportunity to personally thank each and every one of the walkers, the cyclists, the support crew (Sean Murphy, Gail and Carey) and all the people and clubs that have contributed towards this project, for their invaluable contribution to the fund raising cause and also equally importantly to the sense of fellowship that developed during the walk. Apologies that I cannot name them all individually.

I am not able to give a precise amount we have raised just yet as contributions are still coming in. Suffice it to say that we have achieved and exceeded our target of £5,000. If you have any contributions still to make, please let me have them asap so that we can finalise the accounts.

Thank you – Thank you – Thank you

District Conference

Yet another reminder – District Conference at Scarborough is fast approaching. The dates are Friday, 4th to Sunday 6th October. If you have not booked yet then do it now – don’t be left out. You are guaranteed a fantastic weekend of Rotary Fellowship, presentations, inspirational speakers and a fantastic House of Friendship.

Talking of Speakers, if you wish to hear Michael Portillo speak, then you MUST book for the lunch – it is a complete package. If you do not book the lunch you will not be able to hear Michael Portillo speak.