The presentation of the Charter to the new Rotary Club of Wootton Bassett Town was the culmination of Wootton Bassett and District Rotary Club's efforts to meet the global challenge of Rotary International President Rick King to "Grow Rotary."

Wootton Bassett Town, the 63rd Rotary Club in District 1100 and the 30149th worldwide, 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.

The charter was presented to Bill Duncan, the president of the newly formed club by Norman Proctor, a former President of Rotary International in Britain and Ireland.

He praised the vision and enthusiasm of Wootton Bassett and District club president Chris Howard, extension officer Dave Fenwick and and fellow Rotarians, who promoted the founding of Wootton Bassett's second Rotary Club.

There were many presentations to the newly chartered club, including a 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 due to receive its charter on 5 November.