IN PHOTO: (l-r): judge Richard Gent, Geoff Knapton, Jon Bean, Anne Eyley, Angela Stevenson and judge Bob Stevenson
Members of Newton Aycliffe Rotary Club took time out of their busy lives this week to enjoy the centuries-old game of quoits on the village green at Aldbrough St John. “There’s a great social side to Rotary membership as well as the service we give to help improve the lives of people at home and abroad. Fellowship is an important part of club life”, said President Nora Scott. Winner of the men’s quoits competition was Rtn Jon Bean who beat off strong competition in the final from club secretary Geoff Knapton. Anne Eyley won the women’s competition with Rtn Angela Stevenson as runner-up. Prizes were presented by President Nora. Thirty five members, partners and supporters took part in the evening competition organized by Rtn Angela Stevenson and Rtn Richard Gent and later enjoyed a meal at The Stanwick Arms in the village. They included John Wilson and Shildon’s current Mayor, Trish Pemberton, who were guest speakers at this week’s club meeting when they outlined an expedition to Africa in the summer of 2008 with students from Darlington’s Polam Hall School. It saw the group climb Kilimanjaro, tackle various social projects to improve the lives of villagers in the remote community at Kilimatinde in Tanzania and visit the Tarangire Game Park. John and Trish received a vote of thanks from Rtn Don Walker.
