IN the centenary year of Soroptimist International, Margaret Cook takes over from Jo Thornley as President of the Ilkley Club. Margaret, after a professional career in nursing, is well known to many in the town, having carried the Olympic Torch through Ilkley, having strong connections with Christchurch, U3A and many other voluntary organisations. Her personal interests are walking, film, theatre and reading.

In Soroptimism, Margaret is an honorary member at regional and national level and has attended the UN as an International Assistant Programme Director. Her theme for the year is New Horizons, triggered by coming out of the pandemic to engaging in a different world.  Her chosen Speakers have all faced new horizons themselves during the past year. A November Fashion Show will support the main charity of the year which is the local refuge. Trees will be planted to celebrate the centenary and the friendship Link with Brisbane. An inspiring women event in cooperation with Ilkley Fair trade will be held in March 2022. Whilst all meetings have been on zoom during Jo’s year, Ilkley Soroptimists look forward to being back at The Clarke Foley by the end of May.