THE Rotary Club of Bewdley has elected a new president for the 2016 to 2017 year.

During a handover presentation, outgoing president Elaine James fitted the chain of office to president-elect, Derek Killingworth.

Speaking at the handover Mr Killingworth, who is also a Bewdley Town councillor, said he hopes to promote the town and its groups and organisations.

He said: “It is my hope and intention to work with the chairs of various committees within the Rotary Club of Bewdley in an effort to promote the club and the work done by the rotary for the community.

“I hope we can work with the town council and other groups and organisations within the town and area to promote the town and such organisations, starting with our second year running the Button Oak Fete on August 13 – all money raised to be donated to local charities as it was last year when we raised more than £4,000.

“I will have a hard job following in the shoes of our last president who, in her own quiet but determined way, took the club forward in a positive way and I hope I can match up to her efforts, but I will trip.

“I am also willing to listen to any thoughts of members and gladly accept any offer of help.

“Finally, we are always looking for new members and I would ask anyone interested to come along to one of our meetings any Thursday evening at our new home at the Bewdley Pines Golf Club.”