04/07/2026
Rita Lazaro’s Post
The real engine of Bath isn’t always under the bonnet.
At the Rotary Club of Bath, UK Festival of Motoring last weekend there were beautiful cars, polished chrome, brilliant conversations, and a wonderful sense of local pride.
But what really stood out was the people behind it all.
Rotary has such a gift for bringing different worlds together: car enthusiasts, businesses, charities, families, civic leaders, volunteers and curious visitors, all in one generous, lively space.
That is no small thing.
Volunteering can sometimes be made to sound a bit beige and dutiful. This was the opposite. It was joyful, sociable, energetic and full of horsepower, in every sense.
It also made me think about the link between engines and imagination.
Both need fuel.
Both need care.
Both need people who know how to get things moving.
That is why I’m so excited that Bath Artists' Studios will be working with Rotary on a project this autumn. There is something powerful in connecting creativity with civic energy: people making space for each other, sharing ideas, and helping the city feel more alive.
Huge thanks to Chris Davies, Rotary and all the brilliant volunteers who made the Festival of Motoring such a warm, polished and memorable event. Made even greater by delicious nibbles from the Mint Room Restaurant and chilled drinks from the Canned Wine Group | B Corp™ ...hmm...that crispy Rose...
I left feeling inspired, connected, and very glad that Bath has people like this under the bonnet.
PS. I apologise for the lack of decent photos. It was the one time I put away my phone so I could fully immerse myself in the atmosphere. No Regrets!