Two dedicated members of the Channel Rotary Club in Folkestone have been presented with the organisation's most distinguished honour, the Paul Harris Fellowship.
Highest Rotary Honour Bestowed
Ray Beaglehole and Nigel Hart were recognised for their exceptional and long-standing contributions to Rotary service. The prestigious awards were presented by the club's founder member, Hugh Barker, during a special ceremony.
Decades of Dedication: Ray Beaglehole
Ray Beaglehole's association with Rotary began in 1986 while he was serving in the Army at Shorncliffe Barracks in Folkestone. Despite postings abroad, he maintained his Rotary links. Upon retirement, after a career as a director with the Guardian Newspaper Group, he returned to Folkestone. This move allowed him to engage more actively with the club, culminating in his role as president in 2005.
Media and Image Steward: Nigel Hart
Nigel Hart, a former project manager and tour operator in New Zealand, joined the Channel Rotary Club in 2000. Now retired, he has served as the chairman of the club's Public Image Committee and has managed its media relations for an impressive fifteen years.
The Significance of the Paul Harris Fellowship
The fellowship is named after Paul Harris, a Chicago businessman and a founding figure of the global Rotary movement. His vision of fostering peace, understanding, and community service continues to inspire members worldwide.
This accolade is not given lightly. It is reserved for individuals who demonstrate a commitment to service that goes far beyond ordinary expectations. It embodies the very spirit of Rotary: making a tangible difference in society through fellowship and dedicated action.
The ceremony in Folkestone, Kent, highlighted the profound impact that sustained voluntary service can have on a local community, celebrating two individuals whose work has truly reflected Rotary's highest ideals.
