Heybridge Blackwater Rotary Club had its first face-to-face meeting on Tuesday (20 July)

in Heybridge since the start of the pandemic more than a year ago.

New President Michael Edwards took over from former Malcolm Myles at the meeting at Plantation Hall in Heybridge. Malcolm had been the Club's President for a marathon three years -

Club Presidents normally only hold office for a year but because of Covid-19 and other factors it was not possible for Michael to take over until now.

At the same time Michael welcomed Simon Burwood, a new member, as the President-Elect, so-called because after one year the President-Elect automatically becomes the new President.

Michael confirmed that the Club has now got a new format to assist in attracting new members especially those working so as not to take up too much of their time. With immediate effect the Club will meet at Plantation Hall in Heybridge in the evening on the 2nd Tuesday of the month and on the 4th Tuesday have a meal out at a local pub or restaurant. The Club has a strong social aspect, as well as fundraising for local good causes and taking part in Rotary's international work.

Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million people in 35,000 clubs, taking action to promote

peace, fight disease, provide clean water, sanitation and hygiene and support education.

As well as raising money for local, national and international charities and responding to disaster situations when and where they happen, Rotary Clubs also help out at local events where needed, such as public firework displays and large-scale community events - and of course are also well-known for making sure Santa visits local streets at Christmas time.

If you are interested or want to find out further information then please come along to one of the meetings at Plantation Hall or alternatively email the Club Secretary for more details using the link [M][email protected][L+]here.[.L]