28 members and friends of Stockport Lamplighter Rotary recently visited Bergamo in Italy for their annual President's weekend away.

Although the weather forecast was for heavy rain and thunder the group were delighted that they were able to walk round the old cobbled town in bright sunshine, visiting the plethora of beautifully ornate churches, quaint local shops and the many pavement cafes.

One of the members, Clyde Raine, used his expertise as an architect to showcase the many beautiful buildings from differing eras.

Each evening the group met together to enjoy great Italian food and wine whist laughing and chatting together in true Rotary fashion.

On the last evening President Bernadette Holgate arranged a five course meal in the hotel who allowed her to serve her own drinks to the thirsty revellers. As it was Eurovision, Clyde arranged a sweepstake which was won by Ian Tonge. In fact the hotel enjoyed the company of the group so much that they presented Bernadette with a beautiful bouquet of flowers as a thank you for choosing their hotel.

Each year Lamplighters celebrate their friendships in this way, sometimes abroad and sometimes in the U.K. but wherever it is it's always a great occasion.