A CAMPAIGNING York women's group which has raised thousands of pounds for charities and played a major part in city life over its 66-year history, has been forced to close.

Members of Soroptimist International of York, an organisation for women in management, the professions and voluntary service, have reluctantly disbanded after finding it impossible to attract younger members.

No candidates could be found for the roles of president, treasurer and secretary when the posts came up for annual renewal.

The existing 35 members, either senior in years or laden with responsibilities outside the organisation or family commitments, were unable to take on the roles and no new members could be found despite a recent recruitment drive.

Ex-president Barbara Geddes said: "It is a sad day and we are all extremely sorry about it. We are all very sad at the closure, but we have found it impossible to attract younger members. I believe all service organisations are suffering from the same problem.

"Are younger people losing the ethic of giving service, or is the pressure of commitment of time and money too much in today's world? Whichever it may be, the loss of these clubs is a loss to the community."

Mrs Geddes said she hoped it would not be the end of Soroptimists in York.

"Perhaps, in a year or two, younger people with different ideas would like to get it going again and the organisation could rise like a phoenix from the flames," she said.

Mrs Geddes is to continue her Soroptimist work with the Malton branch, and encouraged other disbanded members to sign up with neighbouring branches.

The group will still meet up informally for social events.

Over the years, the Soroptimists - which literally means "the best of sisters" - have supported a number of local charities, given sponsorship to young people on overseas projects and played an active part in the local community.

The group hit the headlines in 1999 when a mix-up at the Lord Mayor of York's parade meant members missed out on the presentation of the trophy for their impressive float. They demanded their moment of glory and the then Lord Mayor, Coun Peter Vaughan, invited members to the Mansion House to make amends.

The group also threw its weight behind the Evening Press's Save Our Swim campaign opposing council plans aimed at closing city pools.

Remaining club funds have been divided up - £1,000 was given to Martin House Hospice, £400 to the Stagecoach Youth Theatre York, and £1,000 to the national Soroptimists Benevolent Fund.

The Soroptimists hope to find a home for their valuable official regalia - the presidential chain of office - possibly in the Castle Museum.

Updated: 10:56 Saturday, March 24, 2001