THE new Rotary year means a new Rotary president and local man Martin Perry will be assuming the ceremonial chain of office for 2016/17. In this 60th year of Ledbury Rotary club's inception, outgoing president Bernie Robertson said "I have thoroughly enjoyed being involved with Rotary and in this exceptional year celebrating 60 year of service to our community we show our sustainability and usefulness to people here and around the globe."

Martin who lives in the centre of Ledbury said he was looking forward to an exciting year and that his main aims are to work with the community; to help groups in a practical way as well as financially by providing small grants, and to work with different sectors, schools, young people and the more mature residents of the town. Martin is keen to learn about what is needed in Ledbury and its surrounds, and react positively to assist in resolving issues and challenges where possible. The Rotary Club of Ledbury is highly visible, often seen acting as stewards at major events in the town, such as the recent Armed Forces Day, and poetry festival food and drink celebrations. The club will be organising a float to appear at this years annual carnival on the theme of heroes and villains. As a dual gender club, Martin said he welcomes new members and invites Ledbury people to become involved with serving the local community, celebrating its diversity and the main priority is to have fun in the process. For details see the Ledbury Rotary Club website.