This month, Maldon Rotary Club has donated cheques totalling £2,500 to Plume Library and Moroccan earthquake disaster relief.

On September 5, Rotary Club President Judy Smith presented a £500 cheque to Dr Helen Kemp, curator of rare books at Thomas Plume 's Library on Market Hill, Maldon.

A Rotary spokesperson said: "It is well worth a visit to this remarkable building, to see the collection of over 8,000 books and some paintings collected by Dr Thomas Plume - bequeathed to the town in 1704.

"Members of the Club are proud to support this venerable institution using funds raised from the Community."

The building is maintained by Maldon Town Council. However, the books and content are maintained by Thomas Plume Library Trustees, the Chair of which is Town Mayor Councillor Andrew Lay.

At its monthly Business Meeting on September 19, members of Maldon Rotary Club voted to donate £2,000 for relief towards the Moroccan earthquake disaster.

The money given to the Shelterbox organisation will be used for essential supplies, in the aftermath of the catastrophic event and is delivered directly to the point of need.

"Members of the Club express their grateful thanks to the local community," the spokesperson added.

"By supporting our events such as the Maldon fireworks, and through donations, they allow the Club to support victims of such disasters."

Read more

• Burnham Carnival visitors urged to use car parks amid rail strikes and public transport issues
• Maldon: Advice and support for older residents on offer at Senior Safety Day this Monday
• What's On in the Maldon District: Burnham Carnival, Prog-Rock legend Rik Wakeman, Mayor's charity coffee morning, and more this weekend