Four generations of military service
At a recent meeting of Rossendale Rotary, member Major Bob Smethurst told a remarkable story of four generations of his family serving in the British Army, with a combined service of well over half a century. He assured members that neither his grandfather, his father, nor he himself had ever suggested to their sons that they should join the army, so it must be in the genes.
Bob’s grandfather, father and son all thankfully survived active service in Gallipoli, The Western Desert and Afghanistan respectively. Although Bob never had a shot fired at him in anger, he did serve in numerous locations worldwide, from Hong Kong, Belize, Cyprus and the Falkland Islands to Germany and Colchester.
Presidential handover
After the talk, Bob was installed as President-elect by Adrian Watts, who is now President for the fourth time, after retiring President John Lowe passed the chain of office over to him. The evening demonstrated how Rotarians in general, and Rossendale members in particular, serve the nation in many ways.
However, to keep doing what they do, the club needs more members and helpers. Anyone interested in joining to use their time, talents, skills and energy to improve lives in the local community and further afield – or if they think the club may be able to help them – is asked to contact Secretary Arnold Sampson on 07973 310237.
