THE Rotary Club of Salisbury is appealing for volunteers who can spare a couple of hours each month to help out as it strives to make a difference in the community.

The club, which raises money and supports a variety of community events, has just celebrated its 93rd birthday.

Schools feature heavily in the club’s agenda with members helping out with mock interviews while school competitions are also promoted and co-ordinated including those for photography, public speaking, cookery and technology with winners going onto to regional and national finals.

And free spaces are offered each year on an annual Youth Leadership Training programme, currently facilitated by members of the club in the New Forest to help develop young people’s leadership skills.

Community events include pantomime visits, an annual chess competition and boat rides for the disabled.

Current club president and bursar at Godolphin School Kevin Flynn: “Unfortunately, our local communities need our help more now than ever. It would be fantastic to hear from anyone who can spare a few hours each month to help make a real difference to the lives of those who are less fortunate than ourselves.

“Many of the club’s 46 members have full time jobs and so a few hours a month is all they can manage but they always come together with a common purpose to help make a difference to people’s lives, while at the same time having some fun.”

“Just a couple of hours a month really can help change lives.”

Fundraising events in 2014 included the annual swimathon at Godolphin School, various charity quizzes, track days at Castle Combe and Goodwood and the Clarendon Marathon.

Over the years the club, which also co-organises the Rotary Spireworks at the Cattle Market, has supported projects at The Unit, Woodlands School, Exeter House Special School, Stars Appeal, Plain Arts Salisbury and Parkinsons UK (Salisbury).

The number of fundraising events is growing rapidly thanks in part to the growth of the Rotary and Chamber Community Group. Combined, the two groups expect to raise more than £70,000 this year for local causes.

For more information or a chat call Kevin Flynn on 01722 430536 or David Clayton on 01722 328042. *The club is seeking a community-minded person with a marketing, social media and/or web design background who can spare two to three hours a month to help improve the lives of those less fortunate. For more information email david.clayton@bassets.co.uk.