Masefield spoke on the organisation's work in the developing world.

For -- after Mr. Masefield spoke -- Rotary chiefs said the organisation should look at "some particular international project this year.'' Ugandan-born Governor Masefield -- who served as British High Commissioner in Tanzania and Nigeria -- said he had seen first-hand the effects of Rotary International work overseas.

And he told the monthly meeting of Hamilton Rotary Club: "There is a need for that help.

"The world does need the guided help and service brought to it by those who are more fortunate.'' Mr. Masefield said that a massive anti-polio campaign backed by Rotary International had saved an estimated four million children in the Third World from developing the crippling disease.

And he said smallpox had been eradicated through a massive inoculation drive.

He admitted the scale of the problems afflicting developing countries were massive.

Mr. Masefield said infant mortality in Nigeria was 114 per 1,000 births and 100/1000 in Tanzania -- compared to six deaths in 1,000 births in the UK.

He added that 36 per cent of children in Nigeria up to five years old suffered from malnutrition, with a figure of 29 per cent in Tanzania.

And Mr. Masefield said that low weight meant youngsters were more at risk of succumbing to disease.

He added: "There is no wonder there is need. But yet there is hope -- something can be done.'' And he said: "Having spent most of my professional life in the Third World, I want to bring a message of hope.'' Mr. Masefield said governments had increasingly recognised non-governmental organisations with specific skills were often more effective than direct government intervention.

He added Rotary had also helped with education, transporting books donated by UK schools from the docksides of Tanzania because no-one else could afford the transportation costs.

Mr. Masefield said: "The need is enormous, the challenge is daunting, but it can be done, whether through education and money or help in a physical form with people going out to assist.'' He added that organisations like Rotary played a valuable role in pricking peoples' consciences and sparking off aid efforts.

And he told Rotarians: "So my message is thanks and congratulations to Rotary from some of these people who have been helped. Keep up the work and remember, no matter how daunting the task, results can be achieved thanks to your help.'' Thorold Masefield GOVERNOR GOV