WOOTTON Bassett's new Rotary Club was given a £1,700 cheque from the Swindon Hilton to launch its charities account.
The charter dinner at the Hilton was attended by 200 guests, including representatives of two dozen rotary clubs.
Rotary's current aims include the complete eradication of polio.
President Bill Duncan thanked Tim Bowler, general manager of the hotel, for the money. There were many other presentations to the newly-chartered club.
The most unusual was a large soft toy bear which is traditionally held by the youngest club in the district.
It was presented by Paul Hooley, president of the Bristol Aztec Rotary Club, where it has spent five years.
Wootton Bassett Town Rotarians will not have custody for long, as another new club, Severn Vale, is to receive its charter on November 5.
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