Kirkby in Ashfield's 66th Charter

One of the most enjoyable Rotary charters I have attended this year was Kirkby’s charter which took place on Tuesday 12^th March 2013.

This was due to the venue being the excellent Hostess Restaurant, Sookholme and musical entertainment being provided by Newstead Welfare Brass Band. Being something of a brass enthusiast myself, the Band lived up to expectation but more of that later.

There were three Rotarians attending the charter from my club (Hucknall), Past District Governor Brian Darlison, Past District Governor Neil Sharman and myself. I was clearly the odd one out - I’m the only one without a moustache! The person who liken us to Foggy, Compo and Clegg from ‘The Last of the Summer Wine’ shall remain nameless.

Prior to the meal, I was introduced to Past RIBI President Jim Moulson 2010-11 who was also attending the charter.

As always, the Hostess Restaurant offered a superb choice of menu and the service was first class. Members of the Kirkby club ‘sang’ their greetings to their president, Mike Lee using the tune, ‘Micheal, Row the Boat Ashore.’ This ditty humorously acknowledged President Mike’s role in steering the club through turbulent waters.

Also attending the charter was founder member of the Kirkby club, 93 year old Gordon Sugg. Gordon has attended all 66 of Kirkby’s Charters and was determined not to miss this one. This must be a record within Rotary International.

During the formal toasts, District Governor Dave Ashley presented club president Mike Lee with the Paul Harris Fellowship, the highest honour within Rotary.

Newstead Welfare Brass Band of the Championship Section then took the stage. Newstead Band are one of the elite Brass Bands in the United Kingdom and played a programme that appealed to the gathering.

This was their ‘set’:

Quickstep March ‘Jubilee’ by Paul Drury featuring the Salvation Army tune ‘I love him better every day’

Tenor Horn Solo ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’

‘In the Mood’ by Glen Miller

Flugel Horn Solo Rodrigo’ Concierto de Aranjuez

‘Mr Blue Sky’

Cornet Solo ‘Stars’ from Les Mis

‘Libertango’

‘William Tell Overture’

‘Theme from Hawaii Five O’

The latest CD recording can be purchased here:

http://www.newsteadband.co.uk/buy.html