Parkinson's Disease has been chosen as the fundraising cause for Keighley Soroptimists over the next 12 months.

Jean Brockbank, the new president, wants to raise money for sufferers of the disease during her year of office.

Steeton woman Jean lost a father and aunt to Parkinson's disease and her uncle is currently suffering from the ailment.

Jean, who has two sons and a grandson, wants to raise awareness into the disease so more research can be done.

Jean was welcomed as president during Monday's meeting of the Soroptimists, a long-established social, fundraising and campaign group.

The Keighley branch of the worldwide organisation is open to women who hold positions of responsibility in either work or voluntary service.

As a group they work across all geographical, cultural and ethnic boundaries in order to raise the status of women worldwide.

Jean has worked for Bradford Council for more than 18 years and is presently Keighley's advice team manager.

Although relatively new to Soroptimists International, she says she has gained many friends throughout the country.

Through her membership she has also gained knowledge of Third World countries, equality and human rights for women.

Jean was hoping to begin her year of fundraising on May 13 by taking friends with her on a walk across Morecambe Bay to raise money for Parkinson's disease. But this week she learned it had been cancelled because of the foot and mouth crisis.

Instead her year will begin with a fashion show on May 21.

Keighley Soroptimists are looking for new members and would welcome any woman working in a responsible position.

Phone Jean on 01535 656415.