Thanks to George for sending through details of the change of President ceremony that took place at the end of last month. Ed
Monday 30th June 2009 saw a change of President for the Rotary club of Ventnor.
Outgoing President, Mr John Hilsum, handed over the chain of office to his successor and also awarded a cup to the Rotarian who during John’s year in office personified the spirit of Rotary – this going to Club Secretary Tony Simmons.
New President Keith Pratley outlined the progress the club has made during the prior year and promised to maintain and move forward the many programmes to which the club has given its support.
“Special attention will be directed towards the drive for members”, said new President Keith.
The night was also one to recognise three club members with the highest honour the club can bestow (a Paul Harris Fellowship).
The first award went to Alan Birt for his sterling work in representing the club on an international project in conjunction with our twin club of Rouen Collines, which provided a water desalination facility in a farm employing mentally disadvantaged people in Tunisia.
The second award went to Tony Simmons who has been a tireless Secretary for many years working often without acknowledgement.
The final award went to new President Keith himself for his work a junior, then senior, vice President and as Treasurer and who has been largely responsible for the smooth running of the club’s affairs.
