MIKE Lakin has been named the new President of Basingstoke Deane Rotary for 2024/2025.

The Coventry-born IT specialist takes over the community-focussed role with a wealth of business and charitable experience.

Mike, having spent his career in information technology, moved to South Bucks in the mid-70s.

He previously held managerial positions within financial applications and database technology companies in Reading.

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New President of Basingstoke Deane Rotary Mike Lakin (Image: Basingstoke Deane Rotary) The retired tech expert now indulges in more leisurely pursuits such as cycling through the Hampshire countryside and spending time with his 10-year-old grandson, Ted.

Mike is also involved as a trustee at the Loddon School, in Sherfield-on-Loddon, for children aged eight to 19 with profound autism and severe learning difficulties.

The Rotary President position was previously held by Julian Ricketts, who applauded the club's continued success during his tenure.

Julian said: "The club had helped 49 charities, clubs, associations or individuals either by financial donations or volunteering during the year. That is almost one a week and an amount that the club should be proud of."

The Festival of Transport, the club’s principal fundraiser, was again hailed a triumph.

Proceeds from the festival and the Royal Marines concert at The Anvil have enabled the Rotary Club to continue its wide-ranging support for numerous charitable causes.

Basingstoke Deane Rotary's recent initiatives have been diverse, from donating generators to Ukraine, supplying disaster emergency boxes and supporting the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

The air ambulance was also the main beneficiary of this year's Festival of Transport.

Basingstoke Deane Rotary members have also been volunteering at various local events such as the Destination Basingstoke Half Marathon, Overton Sheep Fair and Whitchurch Silk Mill Food Festival.

With a successful precedent set, Mike and his fellow Rotarians are looking forward to another year of community engagement and charitable work.