MEMBERS of a men-only Rotary Club walked out when it was decided to let women join.

Newton Aycliffe Rotary Club, which was established nearly 25 years ago, has voted to admit women in common with many other clubs in the region.

But the decision has prompted three members, including one founder member, to leave.

President Don Walker said: "It would be fair to say that when we had a democratic vote, there were one or two members who weren't in favour of it and have decided to vote with their feet.

"Some people think it's been a gentleman's club for a long time and it should have stayed a gentleman's club.

"They have their own ideas, which they're quite entitled to, but they're good Rotarians and it was a sad loss to us."

Rotary Clubs have been allowed to admit women for a number of years and many in the North-East have now done so.

The Newton Aycliffe club is keen to attract women members now the decision has been made.

Mr Walker said: "We're bringing women into our club, but we feel we shouldn't just bring one or two in, we should go for it.

"We do a lot of charitable work and we are looking for people who can give the commitment and time that is necessary."

Anyone interested in the Newton Aycliffe Rotary Club can write to Richard Cox at Redworth Hall Hotel, Redworth, Bishop Auckland.