RESOURCEFUL Rotarian Robin Scott made a rod for his own back when he delivered his club’s latest donation to the Macmillan Hospice in Christchurch, Dorset.
Reluctant to hand over the money by hand due to COVID restrictions, the President of Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary devised his own delivery method, using a giant cheque and a fishing rod.
Robin explained: “In normal times, we present our donations to the Macmillan Unit as a group with celebratory photographs and a party atmosphere. We have a fantastic relationship with the Trust Secretary Neal and the whole team, and it’s always something to enjoy.”
“Unfortunately, get-togethers aren’t safe at the moment. But we are a resourceful bunch and thought we would make sure the money got here, where it is needed, safely – but with a hint of fun.”
Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary is a long-term supporter of Macmillan Caring Locally. Rotarians meet weekly to socialise, plan money-raising events and consider how best to benefit the local community. Its most well-known fundraising event is the annual Tree of Light Christmas Appeal, in which people commemorate loved ones through lights and messages on a Christmas tree. The event also features a carol service and a switching-on of the lights by the Mayor.
Robin said: “COVID also ruled out our traditional Tree of Light gathering last Christmas. But thanks to some technological wizardry, we were able to hold it online and were thrilled to raise £3000 for Macmillan, which we have added to from our charity fund and are delivering in the form of a £5000 cheque.”
“The charity has been hit hard by the pandemic, including its Brick by Brick appeal, which is fundraising to build a new, more modern hospice building. So, it gives us great satisfaction to know we are making a healthy donation to the appeal at this time.”
The cheque was ‘reeled in’ to Neal Williams, Trust Secretary of Macmillan Caring Locally.
Neal said: “When the club said what they were planning, we all had a good laugh. They are a fun and deeply generous group of people, and we feel privileged to have had their backing over many years.”
“This donation perfectly sums up the strength of their devotion to the Mac Unit – as well as their great sense of humour. We would like to thank all the members for their outstanding support of our hospice.”
Robin added: “Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary is now very much looking forward to restrictions lifting so we can come together, stage some great events and raise even more money for this wonderful charity.”
Rotary is one of the world’s largest and most successful global membership and humanitarian service organisations, with 1.2 million members in over 200 countries.
Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary, based at Northwick House in Owls Road, Boscombe, is a regular benefactor to local school projects and global Rotary initiatives.
Along with their sister club, The Inner Wheel, it also funds two affordable residential properties for the elderly in Southbourne and Boscombe.
You can find out more about Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary here.
