I worked with Bob Jackson, president of the Rotary Club of Southampton, to organise the Big Sleep Out at the Mall Marlands on June 7 in aid of Society of St James's work with homeless people in Southampton.

Like many people, I knew very little about what Rotary was but in working with them I began to understand what its all about.

I discovered that Rotary clubs worldwide work throughout the year to raise funds for local, national and international charities with the simple aim of making their communities and the world as a whole a better place to live in.

I want to thank the Rotary Club of Southampton and Rotary from the bottom of my heart for everything they've done for the Society of St James and for our community.

HOLLY BARNES-THOMAS, PR and events fundraiser, The Society of St James.