DG Lucy Thornton - 2026/27

The Rotary District 1100 Handover took place on Saturday, 27 June 2026, at the home of Pershore Rotary President Mina Crisp, bringing together District officers and members of Pershore Rotary for the official passing of the District Governor role.

Outgoing District Governor Anne Bartholomew opened the event by reflecting on a busy and successful year. With the recent hot weather, she was pleased to see clubs embracing a more relaxed dress code while continuing their Rotary activities. Anne thanked her 2025/26 District team for their unwavering support, giving special recognition to Assistant Governor Charles Coates for his five years of service as an Assistant Governor and to Executive Secretary Graham Ogden for stepping into the role during a particularly challenging time.

The highlight of the afternoon was the formal handover of the District Governor's Chain of Office to incoming District Governor Lucy Thornton.

Lucy began by thanking everyone who had supported her throughout her District Governor journey, paying special tribute to Past District Governor Anne Bartholomew for her friendship, encouragement and guidance over the past two years. She also expressed her gratitude to her home club, Pershore Rotary, for their continued support and for helping her travel to the many club visits and events planned throughout the year.

Welcoming her new 2026/27 District team, Lucy spoke honestly about moments of self-doubt during her training but said that looking back, the experience had been incredibly rewarding. She encouraged others to step forward for leadership opportunities, describing the journey as one that had introduced her to many inspiring people and lasting friendships.

Lucy praised Anne for leaving District 1100 in a strong position and shared her vision for the year ahead. She hopes to strengthen relationships between District and clubs by encouraging greater collaboration, embracing new ideas and adopting a more "bottom-up" approach where clubs help shape the future of Rotary together.

Membership remains a key priority across Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland, and Lucy outlined plans to provide practical support and guidance to clubs looking to grow and thrive.

One exciting initiative will be the introduction of District Impact Days, bringing clubs together to deliver community projects and events that showcase Rotary in action while attracting new members.

Rotary International President Olayinka Hakeem Babalola is a member of the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi, Nigeria. His term as President began on 1 July 2026.

Olayinka began his Rotary journey in 1984 as a Rotaractor. He joined the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi 10 years later. His leadership roles include serving as district governor (2011-12), RI vice president (2019-20) and member of the RI Board (2018-20). He is an active participant in RI committees, such as the End Polio Now Countdown to History Campaign Committee and the Nigeria National PolioPlus Committee.

Inspired by President Olayinka's 2026/27 theme, "Create Lasting Impact," Lucy is adding her own message: "Leave a Legacy."

As Lucy said:

"We need to be Rotarians of Action and tell the Rotary story - to remind ourselves why we do what we do and to inspire others to join us."

We wish Lucy every success as District Governor for 2026/27 and thank Anne for her outstanding leadership over the past year.