New Rotary president's mission: to make a difference

Jon Stoker (right) is pictured with outgoing president, Dr Ian Brett

Jon Stocker, the newly-appointed president of Saddleworth Rotary Club, has one committed mission during his term of office: to make a difference and bring hope to the community.

Jon, who lives in Diggle, is working to align Saddleworth Rotary with the vision of Rotary International 2023/24 to “Create hope in the world, working for peace and mental wellbeing” by forging closer links with local community organisations, especially the ones that work to bring hope to those who are struggling.

He explained: “I have given our members, myself included, the challenge of making a difference, giving hope - even if it is for just a few people - in the coming year. 

"That’s a goal that is worth aiming for,”

Jon, originally from Birmingham, moved to the North West to read physics at Liverpool and later, while completing his doctorate in Semiconductor Physics at Lancaster University he met Val, his wife to be, who is a partner in a leading Oldham legal firm.

The couple, who have two children, settled in Saddleworth more than 35 years ago and Jon has recently retired as a Product Engineering Manager from Diodes Zetex Semiconductors Ltd of Chadderton.

Previously, Jon was an active member of Saddleworth Round Table and has been a member of Saddleworth Rotary as the Community Chairman for the last 10 years. 

His Community Chairman role allowed him to support local charitable groups to improve the lives of local people.

Jon said: "Firstly I would like to thank everyone who worked at Wellifest and Saddleworth Show to make both events a great success.

"I was asked several years ago If I would like to become President but I declined saying that while working I felt I could not commit enough time and energy to do the role as well as I would like to.

"Now I am retired, it is now time to put my money where my mouth is!"

Clint Elliott has been appointed vice president.

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