Swindon Thamesdown Rotary raise thousands for charity

A host of charities have benefitted to the tune of £9,300 thanks to the efforts of Swindon Thamesdown Rotary.

Swindon Thamesdown Rotary have been fundraising for seven charities through proceeds from last year's Poppy Ball, hosted by the club, and their Christmas sleigh collection.

The charities in attendance were: Wiltshire Treehouse - bereavement support for children and young adults, Headway - the brain injury association, Jessie May - support and treatment for terminally ill children, Swindon Cares - engages with Swindon's community, local schools and businesses, Royal British Legion - supporting members of the Royal British Navy, Royal Marines Charity - supply a range of services to both serving and veteran officers, and Royal Chelsea Hospital - a retirement home supporting British Army veterans.

Swindon Thamesdown President, David Dukes, said: "This is the time all Rotarians enjoy – giving away the money we have collected. It's hard to believe sitting in a small room, that we are part of the World's largest Club service organisation.

"Rotary members all over the world are doing the same as we are - raising funds to make a difference. Be that eradicating Polio on a global scale, or making a difference to a small charity. Rotarians are volunteering on the charities' behalf, and our only reward is their success.

"It was very much a privilege to present the cheques to Swindon Thamesdown Rotary's selected charities, to recognise and further support the incredible work that they do."

In total Swindon Thamesdown Rotary raised £9,300 which was distributed amongst the seven charities - Swindon Cares received £300, Jessie May £1,000, Headway £1,000, and Wiltshire Treehouse received £1,000.

On behalf of Swindon Cares the Mayor of Swindon, Cllr Maureen Penny, said: "Swindon Cares works really hard to support people with difficult lifestyles, and this cheque is greatly received.

"Rotary are brilliant, and don't raise money for recognition. They do it for no other reason than to raise money for good causes. It's amazing."

Jessie May's Community Fundraising Officer, Debbie Clark, added: "Since Jessie May began we've supported over 300 children across the West, and we expect this to increase by 90 children within the next five years.

"The cheque we've received will allow Jessie May to not only continue our Hospice at Home service, but also our respite service which allows parents and carers time to do day-to-day things like the weekly shopping, or get a car MOT. This cheque is life changing - I cannot thank you enough."

If you are interested in joining Swindon Thamesdown Rotary, the club meet twice a month at Chiseldon House Hotel. For further information call David Dukes on 07867980340.