THE Rotary Club of Chepstow marked its 50th anniversary with a gathering at Chepstow Castle on Saturday evening.

The celebrations began with a fanfare from 1 Rifles's Bugle Band for Rotarians from Chepstow and partner clubs from Chingford in Essex and Westerwald in Germany.

The twinning with Westerwald began in 1979 and that with Chingford just last year and it is hoped that visits will be made every two years.

Chepstow and District Rotary Club was granted its charter by Rotary International on May 6 1963 and had 30 members.

Christopher Wilson, president of Chepstow and District Rotary Club said: "From the outset we have strived to support and serve our community, both locally and internationally, and this continues today through the energy of our members.

"We work hard and enjoy fun and fellowship, while endeavouring to help those in need in our society."

The first "profit" the club made, £104 11 shillings (about £1,700 at today's prices) went to Rotary's Freedom from Hunger campaign.

Since then the club has made donations to many organisations and projects around the world including the Severn Area Rescue Association, Great Oaks Hospice and Rotary's current campaign to eradicate polio.