Rotary club appoints first woman president

New president Joan Banks with last year's president John Cannell

The Rotary Club of Rochdale has broken with tradition by appointing a woman to take the role of President, for the first time in 85 years.

Last year’s President John Cannell handed over the chain of office to Joan Banks at the final meeting of the Rotary year at the Broadfield Hotel.

Mr Cannell’s year was very successful, with three new members and charities the Christie Hospital and Migraine Action having had their coffers topped up.

Ms Banks has not taken her foot off the gas following a busy teaching career and has been involved with Rotary for the past ten years.

Many events including the craft fair at the Town Hall will continue and Alzheimer’s disease charities will be supported by Ms Banks over the next 12 months.