Following the usual barrage of emails and telephone calls, I was able to complete (with Stephen Sypula's  great help), the August TfL Newsletter. Hot off the press and circulated to all 29 Districts, Rotarians can now see what a superb job they have done with Focus on the Crocus. District 1260 alone have undertaken to purchase 225, 000 bulbs and rank 4th in the league table (how pleased am I...).

Time in front of the computer goes so fast, so onwards and upwards it wasn't long before Rtn Noel arrived once more to take me to Flitwick Vale Rotary Club...

I have been really looking forward to visiting Flitwick Vale not least because DGE John Bromley can be found here!  John and I have been working together, particularly over the past 12 months to ensure are methods of operation and the strategic direction of District 1260 are able to be supported across the Rotary years 2010/11 and 2011/12. DGE Debbie Hodge is also involved in these discussions and we have regular telephone contact as she plans for 2012/13. So, it was going to be good to catch up with John in his 'home' environment and meet his buddies at the same time!

Flitwick Vale RC is situated in Ridgemont, apparently it has never had a venue in Flitwick so that was me confused from the start! Nice spot though with their own room across from the pub.

There is an active membership in this Club but President John has seen that membership numbers are lower than the Club would like, and realises they would benefit from an increase. He has therefore decided that this year's focus will be on membership development and this is prompting some healthy discussions and self analysis within their group. As many of you now know, I like to invite questions and ideas from the 'floor' when I visit; there was great interaction from everyone and I'm sure the debate goes on as to whether the Club should meet weekly or fortnightly (we all know the 'rules')...

I felt very well supported by Flitwick Vale and feel they are really looking at the organisational needs of Rotary whilst continuing to raise funds and undertake active service within their community. Following the meeting, two Rotarians came to talk with me about Rotaract and how they felt Rotaractors would be of great benefit to their Rotary; they would even help establish a group and could offer an annual project to kick start the process. I will make sure that I give them as much support as possible in this area, there are some real opportunities for Flitwick Vale and Rotary in general and I'm looking forward to watching this unfold. Thank you for your hospitality...

Go to http://flitwickvalerotary.com/page12.htm to discover more about Flitwick Vale...