The hard work of one dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Elstree and Borehamwood was rewarded last week when he was appointed as club president.

David Clout, who joined Rotary four years ago, will hold the honorary position for one year, during which time he aims to increase the membership of the club.

He was appointed as president during a club meeting at Borehamwood's Civic Offices on Thursday, taking over the mantle from retired hotelier John Page.

This week David announced that one of his aims for the year was to host a film premiere in Borehamwood to raise funds which could be spent on local good causes.

'It is a great honour to be president of the club, as it is a position which has been held in the past by many well known people around the town,' he said.

David also announced that he hoped the club would soon distribute computer packages to schools which would help staff to support children dealing with family break-ups.

In the past four years David has played a major role in the club's Christmas Card Competition and the Schools Art Show, which the club runs as part of the Town Festival.

A teacher for 30 years, David, who is married with three children and lives in Watling Knoll, Radlett, is now the Hertfordshire representative of a major teaching union.

He has been branch secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers for 14 years, and this year was awarded the title of Recruiter of the Year for his achievements.

The Rotary Club of Elstree and Borehamwood meets at the Civic Offices, in Elstree Way, every Thursday from 1pm until 2pm. Anyone wanting to find out more about the club's work is invited to go along or to phone David on 01923 854403.