A new president has taken over at The Rotary Club of Otley.

Peter Heald, an Honorary Citizen of Otley and past president of Otley Chamber of Trade, has succeeded Keith Thompson in the role.

Mr Heald is a prominent local businessman who runs Lunds of Otley, has helped steer Otley Town Partnership for years, and was one the key instigators behind the successful Otley Business Improvement District bid.

He said: "I am looking forward to my year as president of The Rotary Club of Otley, during which I aim to build on our membership and continue raising funds for many good causes, locally, nationally, and internationally.

"I shall be focusing on Behind Closed Doors, the domestic violence charity, and also Wheatfields Hospice, as this is where my wife, Lesley, volunteers."

The club, meanwhile, is now collecting unwanted bicycles - including any that were sprayed yellow for the Tour de France - to send to Africa - anyone who can help is asked to call Mr Heald on (01943) 880301 or send an e-mail to peter@lundsofotley.com .

Over the past 12 months the group has donated nearly £11,000 to a number of causes including The Children of Chernobyl, Polio Plus, Lifestraws, and Micro Loans, and sent Shelter Boxes to The Philippines.

The club meets meets each Thursday at Westbourne House, on Bradford Road, from 12.15pm to 1.45pm, which includes lunch.