THE SHIRE Hall in Monmouth was filled with a sense of accomplishment on Tuesday, January 23, as the completion of the Source of Life project was celebrated in a special event hosted by Drewe Lacey, district governor for Rotary District 1100.

The project has been a vital part of ongoing efforts by local Rotarians to engage with environmental groups and support the campaign for clean water in rivers, particularly the River Wye.

Mr Lacey, who undertook the remarkable challenge of walking 146 miles from the source of the River Wye in the Plynlimon Mountains to its mouth in Chepstow, was able to raise nearly £11,000 for the cause.

The event was attended by several notable figures, including the Mayor of Monmouth, David Evans, and the Mayor of Ross-on-Wye, Bev Pope.

Also present were Rotarians from various Clubs along the River, along with representatives from charities working towards improving the river's ecology, such as Friends of the River Wye and the Wye and Usk Foundation.

Mr Lacey was full of gratitude as he thanked his family, particularly his wife, Felicity, and daughter, Harriett, for their unwavering support during his arduous journey.

He also expressed his appreciation to all the Rotary Clubs that contributed to the fundraising effort and organised events along the river last September. As a token of thanks, these clubs were presented with certificates and added to the project's roll of honour.

Bob Handley, district environment lead for Rotary, highlighted the collective efforts of several Rotary Clubs and local charities in raising awareness about the deteriorating state of the River Wye.

He particularly praised the collaboration with Friends of the River Wye and the Wye and Usk Foundation, whose work focuses on improving the river’s ecology and monitoring pollution levels.

Members of the Ross Rotary Club joined Mr Lacey on the leg between Ross and Monmouth, further contributing to the Source of Life Fund.

The club is planning to host a public meeting in the coming months to share more about the invaluable work of Friends of the River Wye in monitoring pollution levels in the Wye and its tributaries.

During the event, Mr Lacey presented cheques to various recipients, including Richard Howell from the Wye Alliance, which supports Citizen Science efforts to monitor the river’s health.

Mr Howell explained how this citizen science data is vital in providing factual evidence for regulatory agencies to enforce necessary actions. The project has compiled what is believed to be the largest volunteer-based environmental database in the world.

The remaining 50 per cent of the funds raised were donated to GIST Cancer UK, represented by Nic Puntis, to support research into cancer cures and provide vital resources for patients, such as information and helplines for those living with GIST cancer, including Mr Lacey himself.

The celebration marked not only a successful fundraising effort but also an ongoing commitment to improving the environment and supporting cancer research, with Rotary Clubs leading the way in these important community-driven initiatives.