Tuesday, January 21, 2014

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Business Argus

Rotary raft race raises 25,454 for charities

By Jo Barnes
01633 777240 jba@gwent-wales.co.uk Twitter @SWABusiness
THE 48th annual Monmouth Raft Race, organised by Monmouth Rotary Club, raised 25,454 for charity. The principal beneficiary for the 2013 event was St Davids Hospice Care. The hospice as home charity was presented with a cheque for 75 per cent of the total raised (19,091) by club president Jenny Green. The remainder of the money raised will go to other charitable causes supported by Monmouth Rotary Club. Club president Jenny Green was at the head of a group from the club and their spouses, who visited St Davids Hospice day care centre at Malpas, Newport, to tour the new facility and to present the cheque. Jenny said: Were pleased that the 2013 raft race was such a huge success, with a record amount being raised. Were delighted to be able to donate over 19,000 to St Davids Hospice Care to help them to continue to provide their vital services to those with life threatening illnesses, in their homes throughout Gwent. Jenny, who has visited the day hospice, previously, said it was encouraging for those that hadnt see the work the hospice does at first hand to be able to visit and see where the money raised through the annual raft race is spent.

One Gold Tops Newport NP20 4PG T: 01633 844141 W: www.newportunlimited.co.uk

Society continues its soccer support

NEWPORT-BASED Monmouthshire Building Society, one of Wales largest and most successful financial institutions, has once again pledged its support to Newport and District Football League, following more than 20 years of consecutive sponsorship. With over 60 teams currently playing in the league, the societys sponsorship has been pivotal in keeping the costs of the club to a minimum, as well as funding a number of awards including Most Sporting Club and Referee of the Year. Bryan Reynolds, registration secretary, said: The league is extremely grateful to MBS for its support, without which we would find it very difficult to offer the current Andrew Lewis level of service to the players, both junior and senior, as well as to the wider community . MBS is committed to supporting the social and cultural life of communities where it operates, supporting a number of organisations and activities, from sport and music, to theatre and the environment. Andrew Lewis, the societys chief executive, said: As a regional building society, we believe it is important to give back to the communities within which we operate. The league plays an important role in bringing together an inclusive cross-section of the community, with wide ranging benefits to both individuals and wider society alike. Were delighted to have sponsored Newport and District League since 1990 and wish all teams involved the best of luck for another very successful season. The mutual societys annual results saw its assets grew to a record 885m, up from 819m the previous year. In the 12 months to April 30, it experienced 8.1 per cent growth, while profit after tax reached 3.1m, as customers responded to its quality of service and competitive products.

Emma Saysell, chief executive of St Davids Hospice Care, (centre left) receives the cheque from Rotary president Jenny Green with raft race sponsor Robin Hall, managing director, of Kymin (left) and Norman Williams (right) Kris Broome, of St Davids Hospice Care, said: Were absolutely thrilled that this years event was so successful. Wed like to thank Monmouth Rotary Club for organising such a superb event, and special thanks to Mandarin Stone, Kymin and Module IT who sponsored and supported the event and covered the organisational costs. Of course not forgetting the 520 hardy souls, many of whom return year after year, for taking part in the raft race and raising so much sponsorship from their friends and colleagues. The 2014 raft race will take place on Sunday, September 7 and once more be raising funds for St Davids Hospice Care. Monmouth Raft Race co-ordinator, Rotarian Norman Williams, added that: The raft race grows in stature each year, and this year we are hoping to raise even more money . For full details about the 2014 raft race, including online or postal entries, please visit www.monmouthraftrace.com

Singers set to perform at business club

CITY of Newport Business Club is beginning its 2014 programme with an appearance and performance by four members of one of Wales most successful modern day choirs, Only Men Aloud. The event will take place on Thursday February 13 at The Holiday Inn, the Coldra, Newport. After 13 years and some incredible experiences, from winning BBCs Last Choir Standing to scooping a Classical Brit Album of the Year award and performing as the cauldron was lit at the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics, Only Men Aloud has undergone a regeneration with a fresh line-up and a new, more individual style. Craig Yates, who has been with the choir for more than ten years, will give a brief talk and then will perform with the rest of the members of the new line-up comprising David, Niall and Wyn. The clubs chairman, Janine Dance, said: We are extremely looking forward to hearing from Craig and Only 4 Men Aloud. Its not often that you get to hear such great voices in such a close setting. We are delighted to be able to secure a performance from this fresh, new line-up for our members and guests. The event, which is open to all business people, starts at 5.30pm. Tickets cost 35 and include a meal. To book and to find out more information about the City of Newport Business Club, visit www.newportbusinessclub.co.uk. Only Men Aloud with Tim Rhys Evans

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