Insurance specialist is new Probus president

A former insurance industry specialist has been elected president of Ellesmere Probus Club, which offers social get-togethers for a growing membership of retired people in the area.

Ron Goldby, originally from the Watford area, moved to North Shropshire four years ago after spending much of his working life in the City of London and living in the suburbs.

After graduating from Oxford University in 1963 with a degree in maths, Mr Goldby qualified as a an actuary five years later while working for a large UK insurance company.

During his career, he spent three years on secondment to the European Commission in Brussels, assisting with the drafting of directives related to life assurances and pensions. He is a Freeman of the City of London and a member of the Actuaries’ Livery Company.

After retiring at the age of 55, Ron became involved in a variety of unpaid voluntary work, ranging from helping local charities to providing transport for disabled people.

He and his wife, Judy, celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary in August.

“We’re really enjoying country life in Ellesmere,” he said. “I’m delighted to be part of Probus because it brings together retired and semi-retired people from all walks of life, and as we’ve moved from a different part of the country, it’s helped us to make new friends, as well as providing an opportunity to hear some fascinating talks on a whole range of subjects.

Following the annual general meeting, Ron takes over from Jo Jutson, the club’s first female president, who now succeeds long-serving treasurer Michael Judge, with Victor Hyde as vice-president and Paul Goulbourne continuing as club secretary.

Probus meetings, with guest speakers, are held at Ellesmere Comrades Club between 1000-1200 on the first and third Thursday of the month during winter and early spring, and once a month during the summer.

Membership has risen to 65 men and women in the past year. The annual subscription is £20. More information is available on the Probus Ellesmere Facebook page.

Ellesmere Probus Club’s new president Ron Goldby. (2^nd from right), with vice-president Victor Hyde, retiring treasurer. Michael Judge, new treasurer Jo Jutson and secretary Paul Goulbourne.