Axminster Rotary Club has a new man at the helm

Axminster Rotary Club has installed its new president.

Ian Crawford, 66, moved to the town from Reading with wife Lesley in 2007, following a career in the automotive industry.

He joined Rotary in 2002, then the Axminster Club in 2008. His interests include sailing, and more recently, golf.

Mr Crawford received his chain of offices from the now past President Malcolm Reynolds. President elect for 2014/15 is Simon Dunn.

After taking office the new man at the helm said that he was a firm believer of working in and with the community of Axminster, particularly in the times of need - and the involvement with the food box delivery service highlighted that recently. ‘Service above Self’ is the Rotary international slogan, he stressed.

“Internationally, ShelterBox, and the continuing battle to eradicate polio from the world continues,” he added. “Recent troubles around the world, where thousands are displaced from their homes, and world disasters are all too frequent require the instant support and decision making that Rotary is famous for.”

Other officers elected for the coming year were president nominee Bill Coltham (2015/16), secretary Barry Castle and treasurer David Guy.

Other key post holders include John Brennan (youth), Richard Salisbury (international), Martin King (community projects), and Roger Lawrence (foundation or Rotary charities).

* Mr Crawford welcomed visiting Rotarians to call in for lunch at their weekly meetings at the Conservative Club, at 1pm on a Friday. He particularly invited anyone who wished to learn more about Rotary in Axminster to call in, too, and see for themselves how they can make a difference in the world by being a Rotarian.

For more information call the secretary on 01297 35522.