Rotary Clubs' Community Impact: Mayors Join Annual Walk and Local Initiatives
You might recognise the name Rotary, but are you aware that it stands as one of the globe's largest community service organisations? Annually, Rotary contributes an astonishing more than 47 million hours of volunteer work worldwide. Since 1988, through dedicated partnerships, Rotary has achieved a remarkable 99.9% reduction in polio cases, vaccinating over 3 billion children against this debilitating childhood disease.
Local Collaboration and Charitable Support
While its global achievements are impressive, Rotary's heart beats strongest at the local level, as demonstrated by Rossendale Rotary and Bacup Rotary. These two clubs frequently join forces to support community causes. In 2025, they made substantial donations to Rossendale Hospice, including proceeds from a successful fundraising evening.
Grace Cole from the hospice expressed gratitude, stating: "We were thrilled to receive support from both clubs, who made an invaluable impact by helping fund new computer tablets for our Hospice at Home team."
Annual Round the Hills Walk Event
A highlight of the year is the Rossendale Round the Hills Walk, where over 700 participants walked or ran 18 miles through the picturesque local countryside. This event saw involvement from the Mayor and former mayors, underscoring its community significance. The walk also served as a platform for newer charities like GANDAID UK, a children's health organisation.
Trustee Rebecca Selby commented: "The walk gave us a platform to raise a goodly sum that will support our next GAND Gathering & Conference."
Environmental and Community Projects
Beyond fundraising, both clubs engage in hands-on community work. Rossendale Rotary members have dedicated years to maintaining and improving Lumb Millennium Green, an important local green space. In May 2025, they collaborated with suicide prevention organisation The Waterwell Foundation to host a 'Tea in a Tent' event, raising funds for Shelterbox, an international disaster relief charity led by Rotary.
Bacup Rotary honours community contributions through the annual Clive Crowther Trophy, awarded in memory of a past member. In 2025, it was presented to Graham Helm, Musical Director of the 2nd Rossendale Scout Band, recognising his services despite losing his sight.
Ongoing Partnerships and Festive Traditions
Rotary clubs also support other local groups. Rossendale Rotary assisted Civic Pride Rossendale in purchasing a new van and now provides annual sponsorship. Chair Lynn Smith noted: "Civic Pride Rossendale are delighted to be associated with Rotary. Their generosity is instrumental in helping us continue our core activities."
Festive seasons see Bacup Rotary running a best decorated shop window competition, which raises money for local causes. The Mayor of Rossendale, Cllr Michelle Smith, praised the initiative: "This brings Bacup to life, showcasing the creativity, pride and strong community spirit that make our town so special."
Meanwhile, Rossendale Rotary delights children with a Santa sleigh and concludes the year with a Carol Concert at St Mary's Church in Rawtenstall.
Call for New Members and Supporters
To sustain this vital work, both clubs are seeking new members and supporters of all ages and genders. Opportunities include joining as a full member or becoming a Friend of Rotary to assist at events. For further information, interested individuals can contact Arnold Sampson for Rossendale Rotary or John Doherty for Bacup Rotary.
