Tameside Rotary help fund zoo trip for Ashton children and families

On Sunday 7 July, Tameside Rotary assisted Ashton's 4C Community Centre in taking children and families to Chester Zoo.

Having been granted complimentary tickets to the zoo, the Centre said they were keen to use them however were facing the obstacle of how to cover the transport costs.

They applied to Tameside Rotary's "Small Grants, Big Difference" scheme to help with this funding and were awarded a grant of £500.

Tameside Rotary’s President, Steve Knowles, was at the Centre early on Sunday morning, July 7, to see the group off.

He said the "drizzly rain" did not "dampen the enthusiasm" of the children, who were excited to see the animals.

He said: “I’m disappointed they couldn’t squeeze me onto the coach – not even in the baggage hold! However, it was wonderful to see the coach filling up with families with their goodie bags prepared by Josie.

"Tameside Rotarians work hard all year round to raise funds to support the local community and we were so pleased to be able to offer some financial support for this trip which we hope will create special memories for the children and families”.

On arrival back at the 4C Community Centre, manager Josie said: “The families have all had a brilliant time. We came prepared as the weather said it was going to be thundering and lots of rain. However, the rain stayed away and it was blue skies in the afternoon which was great.

"We had some tired little legs on our way home but everyone was very grateful for the trip and there were lots of happy faces! Thank you so much to Tameside Rotary for the very kind donation towards the cost of the coach."