Okehampton Rotary Club is in fine health at the moment, having just welcomed its 40th member.

He is Hugh McPhillips, who has recently moved to South Zeal. Hugh works with Weldability Sif Foundation and the Welding Institute to initiate foundation level training courses to give aspiring welders a first step towards a career.

Weldability Sif Foundation is a charity that will co-found the initial stages of training by encouraging Skill Centres across the UK to deliver courses. 

Hugh is keen to do that in the South West where it is especially needed and has made contact with Okehampton College to work in this area.

The club now has its highest membership level for a number of years, and hopes that the local enthusiasm for it can continue to grow.

It also has eight women as members, including new recruit Roz Woodward from Bratton Clovelly.

President Sarah Watts said: 'We have a good membership and we get a lot done while still enjoying ourselves at the same time.

'We raise a lot of money to distribute both locally and internationally.'

The club meets every Thursday lunchtime at the White Hart Hotel.

Anyone is welcome to contact secretary Russ Thomas on 01837 52419 and attend as a guest.