NEWS has broken that one of Thurrock's community organisations that has raised many tens of thousands of pounds for local good causes - and has brought smiles to generations of youngsters with its Christmas fundraising, has closed.

A statement has been issued by Rotary East Thurrock (an amalagamatiuon a couple of years ago of the Rotary Club of Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham and the Corringham Thameside clubs) saying it will cease to be at the the end of the month.

The statement says: "We are sorry to tell you and our many supporters that Rotary East Thurrock will close on 30 June. It has been an incredibly difficult decision to make but ultimately the only decision we can take.

"After decades of service to Stanford, Corringham, Fobbing and Horndon we must now draw that line and say we have done our very best but we cannot now continue with our fundraising events and financial local and global support. The reasons? Many really, but events like the Christmas Sleigh take huge numbers of people power to make it happen and our numbers have been reducing for years. We simply don't have the numbers any more. We also found little interest in Brand Rotary.

"We tried everything to boost our numbers. We changed our club meeting times and days. We posted thousands of leaflets through local doors encouraging membership and lots more initiatives through schools and community groups but nothing worked.

Members of the Stanford and Corringham Club, before the merger with Corringham Thameside, at Basildon Hospital. One of many presentatiosn the club made in 2018.

"So, put your tissues away and let's reflect. We have enjoyed putting on these events for many years, Give a Can, Golf Days, Horndon Feast and Fayre cream teas, Spring Day, quiz nights at the Springhouse, lots more and probably most missed will be our Christmas Sleigh.

"You have helped us raise many hundreds of thousand pounds, probably over a million over the years which we have found people and organisations local and global to help on your behalf. Every penny you donated helped others. Thank you.

"Those of you that have given your pennies or pounds, give yourselves a pat on the back. You have made a huge difference to local good causes over many years.

"Some of our team will use our experience to move to other local rotary clubs to continue volunteering. Some will graciously retire after volunteering for years. Feet up, comfy slippers. They have done their bit.

"On behalf of everyone from Rotary East Thurrock, THANK YOU for decades of support to help others, it has been an incredible experience.

"We will leave you all with this..

"If you find space in your busy lives and a wish to help local good causes, and some global issues, then look to find your local Rotary Club. All are welcome. You commit to what you wish. You can make a huge difference to local good causes and enjoy a fabulous social life with likeminded people. You have everything to gain, nothing to lose."

:Last year's presentation at Hassenbrook Academy.

Today's news is not a total surprise, last year the club's president Peter Wiggington warned of what might be coming. Speaking at a presentation of laptops provided by a £5,000 donation to Hassenbrook Academy, he said: "The future is uncertain unless we can attract new members. And it isn't just the fundraising that is at threat. Our Christmas sleigh that the whole town enjoys, will also become a thing of the past.

"So my message to readers is simple. This is your community, and this is your Rotary Club. Come and say 'hi', what have you got to lose."