This winter’s Rotary shoeboxes not only carried toys, games, writing materials and toiletries to disadvantaged youngsters and elderly people in central and eastern Europe; they also helped to provide a £2,600 donation to a major water and sanitation project benefiting rural schools in Malawi.

1022 special shoeboxes, supplied by Rotary in Harpenden, were filled by pupils from primary schools in the Harpenden area with the help of parents and encouragement from teachers. Scouts and individuals also contributed.

Those participating regularly meet the cost of the boxes with a generosity that creates a surplus, this winter amounting to £686.

With their permission Rotary in Harpenden took that money, boosted it to £936 and, through the Global Grants Scheme operated by Rotary’s own charity, The Rotary Foundation, achieved a further 280% increase, giving the Malawi project a donation worth £2,620.