The History of
Whitchurch Rotary Club
1938 - 2008

Visitors Welcome

We meet in the Dodington Lodge Hotel every 1st & 3rd Tuesday evening at 6:30pm for Dinner, every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at 12:45pm for lunch, and if there's a 5th Tuesday, we meet at 7:00am for Breakfast. Visitors are welcome.

Presidents of Whitchurch Rotary Club

PRESIDENT 1967/68
R. R. 'BOB' HOWELL

Born in Whitchurch, Bob was educated at the Kindergarten at Whitchurch High School before boarding at Adams Grammar School, Newport, - the first school in Shropshire to play Rugby - and where he engendered his early interest in the sport. On leaving school he entered a three year apprenticeship in the drapery trade in London - playing rugby for London Welsh. He returned home to join his father (Will) and uncle (Fred) in the family drapery and men's outfitting business. He joined the T.A. in 1936, enlisting at the Drill Hall with 17 other volunteers. He served during the war in the 4th Battalion KSLI, attained the rank of quartermaster in 1942, and fought throughout the European campaign, being one of the first into Belson, and then rapidly evacuated due a typhus outbreak in the camp. He was demobbed in December 1945 and rejoined the family business, developing, in particular the funeral directing . In the mid-50s along with his wife and daughter he expanded the business dramatically to embrace ladies outfitting and hairdressing - also taking over the Ashleys funeral business. The main retail business closed on his retirement in 1988 but he continued in the funeral directing along with his son in law, Graham Parker (President 1991/92). He joined the British Legion in 1945, serving locally as treasurer, vice chairman, poppy secretary for many years, being awarded the Legion 'Gold Medal' after 50 years membership. He was president of the local Chamber of Trade and instrumental with others in introducing the Christmas lights to the town. He was a keen caravanner for nearly 40 years. He played for the Whitchurch Rugby club prior to the war and a most generous supporter to this day, he provides a trophy annually to encourage junior players.
Joined Rotary 24/11/53. Resigned 23/3/1983.