YOUR interesting report about 24-year-old Pennita Wiltshire, the youngest female president of a Rotary Club in Britain (March 8), prompts me to remind local professional and business people of the existence of the three York Rotary Clubs.

Two of these clubs hold evening meetings, while the Rotary Club of York, meets weekly on a Friday lunchtime where we have lunch and either a speaker or carry out some business.

We are careful to ensure meetings last no longer than an hour and a quarter so we can get back to work.

Although membership is by invitation, we are keen to receive inquiries from men and women who may be interested in joining the local club of a worldwide organisation of more than 31,000 clubs and 1.1 million people, who are pledged to serve the community locally, nationally, and globally, and promote the highest ethical standards in all areas of working life.

The activities of our club are too numerous to list, but include fundraising, practical help for the elderly, young people, and charities, and a varied social programme.

Our largest fundraising event this year will be The Dragon Boat Challenge, to be held on the River Ouse on July 10.

In each of the previous two years this event has raised more than £50,000 for local charities.

The emphasis for members is on personal service, fellowship, and fun with like-minded people.

Although business networking itself is not an objective of Rotary, there is clearly ample opportunity to develop business or professional friendships.

There are no age limits.

To explore the possibility of membership, please ring me on 01904 761200, or email me on mike@mhmiller.fsnet.co.uk.

Michael Miller,

Vice president, Rotary Club of York,

Briergate,

Haxby, York.

Updated: 11:23 Monday, March 14, 2005