A BORDERS man has become only the second Scotsman to hold the office of President of Rotary International in the Rotary Clubs 118-year history.
And Scottish Borders Council marked Gordon McInally’s appointment at an event held in the Scottish Borders Council chambers led by Convener Councillor Watson McAteer and Councillor Robin Tatler.
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Mr McInally, 65, who lives in Yetholm, took over the position earlier this year and has literally been travelling the world meeting some of the 1.4 million members.
But he took time out of his busy schedule to return home to the Borders to celebrate with Councillors, Council officers and fellow Rotarians.
In his welcoming speech, SBC Convener, Councillor McAteer, congratulated Mr McInally on his wonderful honour and achievements saying: “On behalf of the Council and all present, I am delighted to host this event to highlight your service but most importantly recognise your fantastic achievement in leading an incredible organisation from here in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
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“This celebration is a perfect example of how the function of the council can do much to highlight all that is good in our communities.
“Celebrating and sharing positive and important news about this highly regarded and influential special position, as the Rotary International President, is an honour. I know from personal experience that the influence of the Rotary in the Borders for local good causes is in good shape with strong support.”
Having grown up in Edinburgh, studied in Dundee and practiced as a dentist in Edinburgh, the couple now call Yetholm near Kelso their home.
However, Gordon and his wife Heather’s long-term plan was always to relocate to the Borders a plan that was over 30-years in planning, but for Gordon he feels like his ‘DNA has come home’ returning to the place his forebearers lived and farmed.
In his role as President, the 65-year-old plans to put a particular emphasis on creating a culture that understands and supports mental health, while working to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and improve access to mental health services.
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Before the evening drew to a close Cllr McAteer presented Mr McInally with a Silver Reiver as a token of respect and appreciation and a reminder of the special occasion held in his honour.
For more information about the Rotary in Scotland South visit www.rotary.scot or to find a Rotary club near you visit https://www.rotarygbi.org/club-finder/
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