August 6^th 2007 Ref:07-331

Rotary Flood Disaster Appeal Reaches £80,000

Rotary Clubs across the country have responded to the national Rotary Flood Disaster Appeal set up in response to the devastation caused by the recent flooding. Appeals were set up initially by Rotary in Yorkshire and Gloucestershire but when other areas became affected, a central appeal was launched with a separate fund. To date Rotarians have responded magnificently, both in service and fund raising and more than £80,000 has been raised. Specific examples have been Rotarians working with first responders, filling sand bags, helping in community halls with social services, looking after those displaced from their homes, cleaning and flushing toilets with buckets of water, collecting and laundering people’s clothes, distributing bottled water, essential food supplies and fuel. Rotarians have also housed displaced persons and are now heavily involved in clean up projects.

The Central Fund is to collect donations that are not specified for a particular district. The distribution of all donations received will be distributed by those districts in response to club applications. Priority will be given to sustainable community based projects and community recovery activities.

Allan Jagger President Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland said

“We have launched this appeal to help relieve the hardship of the victims of the recent flooding. Rotary is very grateful for the continuing generosity of the public. Rotary is able to react very quickly and effectively through its national, district and local structure. We work in partnership with local, regional and national government and the rescue and voluntary services to maximize the impact of the appeal. Further donations would be welcome from individuals and businesses.”

Donations can be made by cheque payable to “Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland Donations A/C” and sent to Robin Freeman, Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, Kinwarton Road, Alcester, Warwickshire B40 6PB.

To arrange interviews, photos and more information:

Contact Judith Diment Telephone 07860 162313 or email Judith@thediments.co.uk

Notes to Editors

Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations, and helps build goodwill and peace in the world. Approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 32,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Members carry out this work in their community and/or overseas by giving their time and their expertise. A Rotary Club is open to men and women who are business, professional or community leaders who want to use their experience for the benefit of others. Paul Harris formed the world’s first service club in Chicago on 23^rd February 1905. The name Rotary is derived from the early practice of rotating meetings among members’ offices.

For general information on Rotary in your area, contact the local Rotary Club President, details from Robin Freeman telephone 01789 765411