It was lovely to be invited by Canterbury’s Inner Wheel to another couple of events in the programme marking their centenary – this time a celebration service at St Vincent’s Church, Littlebourne, followed later by a cream tea at Littlebourne Village Hall.
A number of Rotarians attended the events. The cream tea – with homemade scones baked by one of the Inner Wheel members – was enjoyed by all. Our President, Maxine Blades, and others commented on how “thoughtful” and “lovely” the earlier service had been.
After a brief word of thanks from Inner Wheel President Pauline Pybus, guests took time to explore various displays in the hall – congratulatory cards, albums, leaflets, and scrapbooks highlighting Inner Wheel’s many community-focused fundraising projects and memorable events. Among the items were photos from a walk for the homeless charity Porchlight and a cheque presentation to the RNLI, taken beside a lifeboat. There was also a black-and-white photograph of Margarette Golding, founder of Inner Wheel GB&I, along with certificates and Canterbury’s presidential chain. Rotarians especially appreciated the handwritten notes and letters on display.
Tucked among the congratulatory messages was an email from International Inner Wheel President Mamta Gupta. “It gives me immense pleasure to extend my warmest congratulations to you all on the event of your Centenary anniversary ceremony, which is a very notable milestone in Inner Wheel life,” her message began. She continued: “Inner Wheel has tied us all in beautiful threads of friendship, which I experienced on my recent visit to the GB&I Convention in Harrogate.” Mamta encouraged everyone to “see the potential in others and keep up the spirit of compassion and teamwork,” ending with a heartfelt reminder: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”
It was a lovely message for Inner Wheelers, Rotarians, and the wider community to take to heart.
Members of our Rotary Club join Inner Wheel President Pauline Pybus for a photo. Picture credit:The Rotary Club of Canterbury.
