If you can remember Ronnie Barker’s regularly used line, people might consider you old enough to think about being a Rotarian.

In fact, many more younger people are considering joining Rotary for the fun of getting together and the satisfaction of teamwork on projects that benefit the community.

With a new president as John Pickering takes over from Tony Williams, Reepham and District Rotary Club is planning to emerge from lockdown with a packed programme of activities.

At last, we should be able to meet again for our weekly meal, to listen to an interesting speaker, debate a current hot topic or just hear from each other on how the world is going.

Over lockdown, we developed the Reepham Rotary Recovery Initiative to channel funds from members, friends and the community to projects needing support in the area; thanks to many, more than £2,800 was raised. Organisations supported are listed on our website.

Two key projects that have been on hold should be able to take place in the autumn.

The Reepham Food Festival returns on Sunday 22 August after several postponements. It will be on a narrower scale this year to ensure none of the participants risk losing money if restrictions on movement remain.

With around 30 supplier stalls, food demonstrations, a picnic area and participation from local organisations this will be a fun day from 10 am – 4 pm. More details on the festival website.

Sunshine Café

Our new project for those with memory loss and their carers has been on hold for more than a year. It is now launching on Thursday 23 September, initially with twice-monthly meetings at St Michael’s, Reepham.

This promises a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere with music, games and entertainment with refreshments. A drop-in morning at St Michael’s is planned for Thursday 9 September for those who might be interested. More volunteers would be welcome.

Plans are also being made for a business mentoring programming using the knowledge and experience of members to help fledgling businesses access finance and support.

We should now also be able to continue with established projects with our schools, in public speaking, interview training, reading and cookery – even building a Japanese garden.

International projects include schooling for street children in Tanzania, polio eradication and Aquabox water filters and emergency supplies for disaster areas.

Preachathon

Then there will be a unique opportunity to hear words of wisdom and help raise funds.

The Ven Arthur Hawes will embark on a marathon preaching session on Saturday 25 September in St Mary’s, Reepham. His sermons can be heard from 9 am – 7 pm in the first sponsored Preachathon.

Arthur (and some of his audience) will be sponsored by the hour. Our JustGiving page will be available soon.

Richard Cooke