Bransgore Rotary CIO – Annual Newsletter
This year has been full of energy, generosity and connection—stretching from our home in Bransgore to communities far beyond. From vibrant village events to meaningful international projects, we’ve continued to live Rotary’s values of service, fellowship and making a difference together. It’s a year that truly reflects our belief that “Together, we are always doing something good.”
Our Impact: If you have ever attended one of our events, you might wonder where all the money we raise goes…
This year we have been able to support 27 charitable causes who support local, national and international needs. The organisations that we support show our values and commitment to community wellbeing, education, emergency response, international development and humanitarian relief.
This includes support for: Heartstart Bransgore; Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance; The Colourworks Foundation; Stepping Stones Nursery; The Rotary Foundation; Wessex Rotary Shoebox Scheme; Aquabox; The Fortune Centre; local war graves maintenance; Cancer Research UK; Cancer Research Christchurch; Bransgore Community Church; Honeypot; ShelterBox; Purple Community Fund; Dictionary 4 Life; Julia’s House; Mercy Ships; Minstead Trust; Tree Aid; Christchurch Foodbank; Global Giving; DEC Middle East Appeal; Lend With Care; CARE International; and Christmas trees and lights for Bransgore Shopping Parade.
The Greatest Hat in Bransgore: The May Bank Holiday Fun Day was a celebration of colour, creativity and community spirit—made even more memorable by the launch of our very first Greatest Hat in Bransgore Competition. Dreamed up by one of our long‑standing members, Jeff, the idea brought a fresh twist to the day and quickly became a crowd favourite.
Visitors arrived wearing an incredible array of headgear, from tiny, quirky creations to towering masterpieces. The atmosphere was full of fun and imagination as everyone proudly showcased their unique style. Our “make your own hat” stall was a particular hit with younger guests, who threw themselves into decorating with pens, glitter, ribbons and even googly eyes to craft their own wearable works of art.
No Fun Day would be complete without a bustling selection of stalls and delicious food, and this year did not disappoint. From homemade cakes to beautifully crafted gifts, there truly was something for everyone to enjoy. The combination of creativity, community and sunshine made it a standout event in the village calendar. Join us for the next Fun Day 4th May 26.
Barn Dance Success: The Barn Dance at Harrow Wood Farm felt like the beginning of a wonderful new Bransgore tradition, filled with energy, music and community spirit. By splitting the event into two parts, we created a lively, family‑friendly afternoon followed by an evening full of dancing, laughter and grown‑up fun. From the moment the band struck up, the atmosphere was electric, with guests of all ages eager to join in as the dance caller led the way.
With hearty food and plenty of local cider on offer, no one went hungry or thirsty, and the dance floor stayed busy from start to finish. The mix of great music, great company and great refreshments made it an unforgettable celebration one that left everyone buzzing and already excited for the next Barn Dance. Join us for the next Barn Dance 13th June 26.
From Vintage Beauties to Modern Classics: We had a fantastic day hosting our car show on the Bransgore Recreation Ground, transforming the field into a paradise for motoring enthusiasts. The event gave proud owners the chance to showcase their classics whether beautifully restored vintage models or striking modern favourites and visitors loved exploring the full range on display.
There was plenty of room for a bustling autojumble too, where treasure‑hunters browsed everything from rare parts to quirky memorabilia, with many walking away delighted by a bargain find. After launching our inaugural Classic Car Show in 2025, we were thrilled to expand the event in 2026 to welcome modern classics and an even larger autojumble, making it one of our most vibrant community gatherings yet. Join us for the next Car Show 5th July 26.
Bransgore BeerFest 25: The Three Tuns was buzzing with music, award‑winning beers and a fantastic community atmosphere as our annual Beer Festival took over the village once again. With an impressive range of local ales, ciders on tap, visitors enjoyed a weekend full of flavour, fun and live entertainment that kept the crowds dancing from afternoon to evening.
None of it would have been possible without our incredible volunteers, whose hard work turned the festival into one of Bransgore’s most anticipated events. Their enthusiasm kept the bars flowing, the music rolling and the smiles constant making this year’s celebration one of our most memorable yet. Join us at the next Beer Fest on the 25th, 26th or 27th September 26.
Shoebox Appeal: Our shoebox appeal once again brought joy to children in Ukraine, Romania and Moldova. Each year, local schoolchildren and their families fill the boxes with small gifts, treats and handwritten messages, creating a moment of kindness that travels across borders. These simple parcels mean the world to the children who receive them, many of whom would otherwise go without a present during the festive season.
Looking Ahead
Bransgore Rotary has a lively year ahead, with a full programme of community events, fundraising favourites and social activities that bring people together. The calendar includes the ever‑popular Fun Day in May, the Barn Dance in June, the New Forest Car Show in July and the Beer Festival in September, each offering something unique for families, visitors and supporters. These events continue to grow in scale and spirit, strengthening the club’s role at the heart of village life.
Alongside these flagship events, we will continue to support community projects, environmental initiatives and fellowship activities for members and friends. With more than 30 active members and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Bransgore Rotary is looking forward to another year of service, connection and making a positive difference locally and beyond.
Thank You
To everyone who attended events, volunteered, donated or simply stopped for a chat or to say hello thank you. “Your generosity, enthusiasm, and community spirit make all the difference.”
If reading this has inspired you to get involved whether to give back, meet new people, or be part of a community that makes a real difference, why not join us?
Bransgore Rotary is a friendly, active club that welcomes new members from all walks of life, and we’re always excited to meet people who want to get involved. You can get in touch with us through www.bransgorerotary.com, where you’ll find details about our meetings, events and how to reach the team. We’d love to hear from you and work together to keep doing something good in our community and beyond.