Lochaber Rotary welcomes new president

Lochaber Rotary has welcomed a new president.

 

Flora McKee took the chains of office from outgoing president Simon Hardiman at a ceremonial lunch held at the Alexandra Hotel in Fort William on Wednesday June 28.

 

Manager of Voluntary Action Lochaber, Flora becomes the third female president of the Lochaber branch of the community service organisation. The Lochaber branch started in 1950.

 

In a short speech upon taking her new role, Flora said that while she was the new figurehead, it was the members who were the club.

 

Speaking after the event, she thanked Simon for his work and added: "As president it is an honour and a privilege to serve this club in the coming year."

 

Presidents usually serve for one year at the club. Unusually, Simon was asked to serve for two due to unforeseen circumstances.

 

During his handover speech, he said: "It has been two years that have flown by. A lot has happened. We have lost some members, but have gained some members. But I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years. I hope that Flora enjoys it as I have.”

 

The next president will be Malcolm MacRaild, who is due to take over in 2024. Local Police Commander Isla Campbell has become the new Vice-President.

 

Music at the lunch was supplied by Tanya MacDonald, who played pieces on the cello and clarinet. She was accompanied on the piano by her mother Catherine Cameron.

 

Tanya recently won the Senior Lochaber Young Musician of the Year prize, which was sponsored by the club.

 

Anyone interested in being considered for Lochaber Rotary, which meets every Wednesday at the Alexandra Hotel, can find out more information on its website.