The Rotary Club of Romsey Test has an exciting year ahead says its new president David Bonnor-Morris.

On Wednesday David commenced his year in office when his predecessor, Jim Purdie, handed over the chain of office.

Jim was confident that 2006 had proved to be as successful as he had hoped. "Our success was due to the tremendous effort put in by all members of the club and the support we received from the local community," he said. "Looking back over some of the highlights the Test Walk has to be one of the most impressive fund raising events of our year with over 250 people taking part and £30,000 being raised for local charities. I wish David all the very best for 2007 and am sure he will enjoy the challenge as much as I did."

David retired from the Army Logistics Headquarters in Andover in 1990 after 34 years commissioned service in REME to take up the post of Bursar at Stanbridge Earls School in August 1990, a job he enjoyed for 13 years.

He has been a member of the Rotary Club of Romsey Test since 1994.

David has selected the new Romsey branch of the Parkinson's Disease Society and the XLP Charity, set up by David Hartley, to be his President's Charities for 2007/8.

The club's first major event was to have been the Mayor's Picnic on Sunday,which has been cancelled due to fears over the weather. However, preparations are already underway for the annual Walk the Test Way on October 14.

This year it will be an even bigger event with six different walks to suit all ages and ability. The introduction of a 26-mile marathon for the serious walker and a 2.5 mile "stroll" will give added interest and hopefully boost the numbers taking part.

To find out how to take part in the walk contact Rotarians David Sutton (01794 502817) or Neville Taylor (01794 368643) or visit the official website www.walkthetestway.co.uk to find out how they can take part."

The Rotary Club meets every Wednesday evening at the Abbey Hotel, Romsey, and all enquiries are welcome via any Rotarian or the hotel itself.