Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane elects new president

Paul Temple is once again at the helm of the Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane for the 2025/26 year, marking his second term as president.

Mr Temple, originally from south London, spent his early career in insurance and the packaging industry before joining Rentokil as a management trainee, eventually becoming regional manager of the Manchester area.

It was here that he met his future business partner and, seizing an opportunity, moved with his young family to Sherborne St John to join a start-up pest control company.

Although the firm eventually folded due to cash flow problems, Mr Temple and a colleague started their own business.

Paul Temple has been elected as president of the Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane. (Image: Rod Clarke) The company grew to become the UK's second-largest privately owned pest control company and was awarded a Royal Warrant by the late Queen Elizabeth.

Beyond his professional life, Mr Temple dedicated 39 years to the Basingstoke Gymnastic Club, which grew from 70 to 2,000 members under his guidance.

He has served in various roles, including coach, chief coach, trustee and chairman, and was instrumental in the club's transition to a purpose-built gymnasium in Houndmills.

Mr Temple's personal life is equally rich, though not without challenges.

His wife Marilyn, who shared his passion for supporting their two football-loving sons, died 14 years ago.

Following a period of adjustment, Mr Temple met Lindy, who has been his partner for the past 10 years.

Their relationship blossomed within Rotary, where Mr Temple originally joined in 2010, seeking more meaningful engagement in his retirement.

The club's ethos of contributing to the local community resonates deeply with Mr Temple, who values the friendships and connections he has cultivated through his Rotary work.

He has held various club roles, managed the International Boxing event for five years, and facilitated the transfer of the Basingstoke Festival of Transport from the Thornycroft Society to Rotary.

Now, as he embarks on his second term as president, Mr Temple continues to be an active member of his community.

In addition to his Rotary commitments, he is a member of the Hospital Male Voice Choir, chairs the local Village Hall, and finds time for golf and cycling.

With a family of five children and 11 grandchildren, Mr Temple and Lindy remain steadfast supporters of Rotary, embodying the spirit of service and camaraderie that the club cherishes.