SMILES on children’s faces as they see Santa’s sleigh is a precious memory for everyone at Christmas.

Winsford and Middlewich Rotary Club is now planning this year’s festive visit round the streets of Winsford but fears it could be the last.

After 74 years, this organisation is now desperately short of members.

The group has already decided they are no longer able to stage Winsford's firework display.

Rotarians say they simply haven’t got enough people to run the annual event.

Treasurer Dr Pete Robinson said: “There is a lot of preparation background work, insurance and risk assessments to carry out.

“Two lorry loads of pallets have to be taken to build a bonfire. It is very physical work.

“On the evening itself, hundreds of people are milling around so safety is of paramount concern.”

The club is determined to survive and is launching a recruitment drive.

A special evening is being held at 7.30pm on Tuesday, September 20 at Middlewich Royal British Legion Club in Lewin Street for people to find out more about their work.

Club president Ron Attley said: ”Much to our shame, one of the best kept secrets is the work that has been done to help others in the community.

“The club was set up in 1948 and has worked tirelessly to help improve the wellbeing of others.”

More than £110,000 has been raised in the past 15 years alon.

This money has been donated to hospices, hospitals, support groups, voluntary organisations and young people.

Rotary is a world-wide organisation and members are keen to dispel myths.

Pete said: “We welcome men and women aged over 18.

“It is very informal and there is a great social side as we meet up and go out as family groups.

“You get a lot of satisfaction being a volunteer and it’s a lot of fun raising money.

“Seeing kids’ faces light up at Santa’s sleigh is fabulous.

“We hope people will come along to our evening, have a chat and bite to eat and we will try and explain why we do it.”

All are welcome to the evening on Tuesday, September 20.