THE Rotary Club of Barry held the first round of the Rotary Youths Speaks competition, one of several competitions organised by the Rotary movement specifically designed to develop students’ skills on Monday, January 23. The event was held in Ysgol Gyfun Bro Morgannwg in Barry.

Winners in the Intermediate Section (11 to 13-year-olds) were the team from Ysgol Gyfun Bro Morgannwg whose chosen topic was Is Social Media a Blessing or a Curse? Chairperson was Megan Leonard, speaker was Sara Jones and the vote of thanks was given by Fflur Bowen.

In the Senior Section (14 to 18-year-olds), the team from Ysgol Gyfun Bro Morgannwg were also the winners. Their team was chaired by Tirion Davies, their speaker was Nia Brown and their vote of thanks was given by Elin Alexander. The team’s chosen topic was Is Modern Education Destructive?

In line with national rules, team speakers had to answer a question from the audience to show their understanding of their chosen topic.

Judges were retired head teacher Eleri Hourahane, associate Rotary member Beth Longley and Audrey Hirst from the Barry Soroptimists.

Speaking on behalf of the judges, Beth Longley congratulated all participants saying that they had set some very high standards.

President of Barry Rotary Club, Carl Kerr thanked Rotarian Ann Harrhy who had coordinated the event and everyone who had supported the competition and wished the winning teams every success in the next round to be held in Cardiff Golf Club.

Rotary has 1.2 million members (men and women) worldwide who form a global network of business, professional and community volunteers.

The Rotary Club of Barry meets weekly in the Glenbrook Inn on Thursdays at 6pm for 6.30pm.

If you would like further information you can speak to club secretary Phil Hunt on 01446 720000 or look online at ribi.org