On Friday 29th March 2019 again Rotarians and guests representing from across Shropshire and District 1210 celebrated the 90th birthday of the Rotary Club of Wellington. In the presence of District Governor Ashley Gray, Wellington Rotarians shared aspects of the club’s 90 years of service to the community.
It was in 1929 that 15 professional and businessmen from Wellington went to Heath’s restaurant in New Street where they met the Chairman of Rotary District No. 6 and other Rotarians from Shrewsbury, Wolverhampton Smethwick and Birmingham. By the end of this meeting the Rotary Club of Wellington was formed and Sidney Bradford was elected first President. He was a dental surgeon by profession, a coincidence as that was the profession of current President, Peter Williams.
Over the 90 years the club has produced two District Governors, Gerry Powell and Barry Preen, and have been led by 89 Presidents – S C Parker served as President in 1932-33 and again in 1950-51.
President Peter said, ‘I believe that fellowship is the key to Wellington’s success, enabling us to work together for the good of the wider community. This continues into our 90th year, supporting local causes like providing a toilet block for a Telford BMX group or working with a Rotary Club in Malawi to provide solar energy for a hospital. I believe that our Club is still thriving – even after 90 years!’
The celebration concluded with the award of a Sapphire Paul Harris Fellowship to Rotarian Graham Reedman who at the age of 92 has been a member of the Rotary Club of Wellington for 45 years. The citation was read by the youngest member of the club, Rotarian Sophie Yates who said, ‘Graham continues to have a keen interest in club affairs, and in Rotary Worldwide. His views are always well-considered and relevant. He also continues to be active in his local community.’