A NEW president has taken the reins at a group celebrating its 40th anniversary

Basingstoke's Probus Club, formed in 1979 and made up of retired scientists, lawyers and professionals, has appointed new president Richard Wood, of Bramley, as it marks its 40th anniversary.

At the annual general meeting in Chineham, the club's outgoing president Chris Perkins said: "The underlying ethos of providing an important avenue of welcome interest and stimulus for those in retirement applies today just as it did more than 40 years ago when the Probus Club of Basingstoke was formed.”

Also standing down after more than a decade at the helm is treasurer Alan May, of Oakley, and Tony Atchinson, of Chineham, who was previously responsible for organising outings.

Meanwhile, Peter Hayes was appointed as secretary with Dr Jeff Grover as treasurer, both from Bramley.

David Wickens, a recent mover from Chineham to Newbury, was elected as vice-president while maintaining his role as the programme secretary.

Former president Mr Perkins will now become the outings organiser. Alex Marianos, a Bramley resident, will continue as dining steward and Paul Flint remain in his role of publicity officer.

Earlier this week, the club met at the Test Valley Golf Club.

Basingstoke Probus meets on the second Tuesday of most months with a guest speaker and lunch followed by some business discussions.

The organisation holds a social pub lunch each month with a range of outings and visits throughout the year where partners and wives of the members are welcomed.

See probusbasingstoke.wordpress.com for more information about the club’s activities.