The late John Rowberry, a founder member of the Ross-on-Wye Rotary Club, was a prominent engineer, well known for his skills in developing new ideas and products. He was always eager to offer Apprenticeships to young people.  

The Rotary Club of Ross-on-Wye are always seeking to find ways of promoting training and development in the local area, and to help to encourage those to achieve their goals and aspirations.

On his death, Mr Rowberry left a bequest. The Rotary Club decided that this would be best used to fund bursaries to deserving apprentices. This £250 bursary comes out of the ideals of the Rotary Club and John Rowberry’s life-long interest in skills development. 

 This year’s £250 Rowberry Bursary for Engineering has been awarded to Luke Gibbons from the Edmo Group. Luke was given his award at the Hereford Group Training Association awards in November 2016.

A spokesperson from the Rotary Club of Ross-on-Wye told the Ross Gazette:?“Many learners are not specifically recognised for how well they have done, because not everyone can win an award. 

“However, we think this person will receive the award on behalf of all those who achieve with no additional recognition (other than of course, a qualification and a job). 

“Any company would benefit from having someone with this person’s drive and enthusiasm. This apprentice has a 100% attendance record and no matter what the circumstances, always has a smile.”