Judy Smith has handed over the badge of office for president of Maldon Rotary Club to her husband Alan, who takes on the office for the fourth time in nearly 40 years of service.

During her year of office, Judy has presided over the club’s ongoing mission of Service to the Community through such events as the annual firework display, plant sale, chestnut stall at the vintage fair, helping with Cabbie Day as well as entertaining residents in care homes and organising photographic and music competitions in association with Plume Academy.

On the fundraising front, Judy and Alan have organised the Santa Sleigh, which glides around Maldon in December, raising some £5,000 for local causes.

Members have raised money for the Poppy Appeal and Marie Curie collections in Tesco and Morrisons stores.

Together this small club raised more than £20,000 for, mainly, local charities, schools and academies and the local hospital. The club has enjoyed much friendship fun and fellowship over the past year including trips and meals out, and, in May a three-day visit from 18 members of our twin club in Holland culminating in a president’s evening during which Rotarians Ian Welles and John Williams received Paul Harris Awards.