Dr David Smithard becomes President

Dr. David Smithard takes over the reigns of President of Rochdale Rotary Club from Joan Banks

A handover presentation at the Broadfield Hotel on 21 June saw former Rochdale Infirmary Renal Consultant Dr. David Smithard taking over the reigns of Rochdale Rotary Club President for the next 12 months. He is the 86th President of the club, which was first chartered in 1926.

Dr Smithard congratulated the club's first woman President Joan Banks on an exceptional year with 6 new club members, the setting up of a new Rotary Friend’s scheme, with 11 Friends so far and over £11,000 donated to various Charities.

Dr Smithard has lived and worked in Rochdale for over 30 years and has been in Rotary for the past 10 years. He has a proven track record of organisational ability in the NHS, setting up Rochdale's Renal Dialysis Unit and has extended this talent to the Rotary's sponsorship of local High schools, including Redwood, Oulder Hill, Falinge Park and Wardle.

Most improved student awards, Youth Speaks and Young Chef Competitions have all been successful events for the Rotary. Dr Smithard has recently arranged the clubs educational and social activities.

He promised to continue to keep everyone fighting fit, as he is a keen walker and to continue expanding membership and club activities.

The Charities that David intends to support this year include Rochdale Petrus and the Sand Dams international charity based in Africa.

Rochdale Rotary Club members look forward to another busy year of service to the Rochdale Community.

Find out more about Rochdale Rotary Club: www.rotaryrochdale.co.uk