THE founder of a global friendship network has retired from working in its High Wycombe office and takes with her a wealth of memories from a world of friendship.

Frances Alexander, Liberal Democrat High Wycombe Mayor from 1998 to 1999, has been the driving force behind Women Welcome Women World Wide (5W) which has encouraged women to travel and build up friendships and confidence.

The organisation, started in 1984, has grown to 3,000 members in almost 80 countries, with an international board of trustees and an administrative centre in High Wycombe.

Over the years, Mrs Alexander has travelled worldwide staying with members, collecting friends and memories.

In 1995, she was rewarded for her work for friendship among women over the globe with her nomination for Women of Europe Award.

Despite retiring, Ms Alexander will still be involved with 5W and is organising a 5W meeting for International Women's Day on March 8 in High Wycombe, and a gathering in Russia at the beginning of June.

Her dream is a friendship voyage, travelling along Europe's waterways meeting members along the way.

Ms Alexander said: "I know much good has happened during my 18 plus years at the centre of 5W. Friendships have been created across cultures. Great generosity has been shown. This quiet, trusting spirit is so needed in our world today may it continue."

January 20, 2003 12:30