‘Those Were The Days’ – 50 years of Thame Rotary

THE Rotary Club of Thame and District was formed in 1968 when it received its formal charter on October 7, that year. On October 6, a celebration lunch, present members, representatives from other clubs, family and friends shared a celebration lunch. The guests of honour included Gillian Pearce, the District Governor for Thames Valley Rotary District, and Geoff Goodall, one of the founder members of the club, who recounted tales of ‘the early days’.

Gillian Pearce and Graham Colverson

The entertainment included a magician who circulated amongst the guests as they settled. After lunch, the Thame Children’s Choir sang a selection of songs including the number one in the charts on October 7, 1968, Those were the days, sang by Mary Hopkin. A donation was made to them by way of thanks for their contribution.

Thame Rotary’s current President, Graham Colverson, said: “I felt it was only right that this milestone in our history should be recognised and I am delighted that everyone enjoyed themselves on the day. Whilst the club has experienced the ups and downs typical of many organisations, the principle of “Service above Self” has always been at the centre of what we do.

“Our focus has been to assist the local community and to provide selective and targeted help overseas. Children are often given priority when deciding how support should be distributed. Fundraising has been an integral part of our activities, although we do also provide hands-on assistance or make available facilities for the collection of items no longer wanted by their owners.

“We are supported by the local Inner Wheel Club and last year we inaugurated our first Interact Club at Wheatley Park School. Without their support, we would not be able to do many of the things we do, and I thank them for all for their involvement with the club.

“Our biggest challenge today is common amongst many clubs – how to secure new members to ensure future growth, service and friendship. This is something we are reviewing and will be working on over the coming months and years; but today, I would like to thank all members, past and present, who have enabled this club to continue serving the community of Thame, surrounding districts and around the world.”

To find out more about the Rotary Club of Thame & District or for more information about becoming a member, visit www.thame.rotary1090.org or follow the club on facebook at www.facebook.com/thamerotary