WHITCHURCH Rotary Club has said a big ‘thank you’ to local businesses that have supported its work during the past year or more.

Club president Dave Simcock started a tour of the town to present framed certificates and window stickers in appreciation of their help with a variety of community actions in 2022.

He says the recognition is down to wanting to show people what they have done for the Rotary and how much it means to them.

“We couldn’t even attempt many of the things we do if it wasn’t for the support we get from so many local businesses that makes it all possible,” said Dave.

"These range from the Christmas meals that are distributed to elderly and infirm people in the town, sponsors of Rotary initiatives such as maintaining flowers beds or the prostate testing programme, to those who give donations and services to keep a series of Rotary projects going.

"The Christmas meals, for instance, rely on donations of food ingredients, the loan of space, equipment and power for preparation and cooking.

"And the Santa tour, which gives so much pleasure to children while raising funds for the club’s charity account, is a major user of petrol.

"Without the help of local business, to cover essential costs, we simply couldn’t do any of this.

"The certificates are, at least, an expression of our gratitude.”