The Rotary Club of Knaresborough celebrated its 63rd Charter anniversary yesterday (Sunday).
The group marked the occasion with a celebratory lunch at Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre attended by 64 Rotarians and guests.
Founded in 1962, the club has seen many changes over the decades, including its move to welcome both men and women as members.
President Deborah Wilson welcomed a range of guests, including Rotary District Governor Anne Sutcliffe, Deputy Town Mayor Andy Bell, Lions President George Simpson and representatives from Rotary clubs in Harrogate, Ripon, and Northallerton.
Entertainment was provided by magician and mind reader Paul Forster and the Knaresborough Silver Band Training Band, who are sponsored by the club.
The event also saw the presentation of Paul Harris Fellowships, Rotary’s highest award, to two members of the local community for their outstanding service.
Named after Rotary’s founder, Paul Harris, the fellowship recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their communities.
One recipient, Matti Ward, who works for the National Grid, was recognised for his work as a First Responder and founder of the charity ‘Restart Yorkshire’.
The charity installs and maintains defibrillators throughout the area.
Following a fire at the Cricketers Pub in Calcutt, Ward retrieved the defibrillator and arranged for it to be relocated to the nearby village hall.
He now oversees more than 24 defibrillators across Knaresborough.
The second Paul Harris Fellowship was awarded to James Pickard, who leads Knaresborough Rotary’s ‘Revolution’ team — a new approach to Rotary designed to attract younger members.
Pickard, a local business owner and Town Councillor, has been instrumental in bringing new energy to the organisation, leading initiatives such as the Gravity Games and roller disco events.
His efforts during local emergencies, including the town’s flash floods and the rescheduling of the Christmas Markets, were also highlighted.
Knaresborough Revolution was formed during the pandemic through collaboration between Rotary members and local volunteers known as the Connectors.
The group meets monthly without the traditional Rotary meal and includes members mainly aged between 35 and 50, many of whom are parents.
Revolution members plan and deliver their own community projects, such as open-air cinema events, collaborations with RAF cadets, and participation in the Bed Race, Christmas Markets, and other town celebrations.
One of their most ambitious plans is to create a ‘Space Bus’—a double-decker community hub designed to provide a safe and inclusive space for young people and local groups to hold activities, workshops, and events.
Knaresborough Rotary and its Revolution team continue to welcome new members interested in contributing to community projects.
Anyone wishing to learn more can contact secretary@knaresborough.rotary1040.org.
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