District 105SW Convention – Where FUN, Camaraderie and inspiration
Lions of District 105SW, get ready for an unforgettable experience at this year’s District Convention! Held at the stunning Croyde Bay Holiday Resort, Devon, on Saturday, 29 March 2025, this is more than just a meeting – it’s a celebration of everything that makes Lions great.
BE PART OF SOMETHING SPECIAL!
• It's FREE to attend the convention during the day but why not make it more of an occasion with some friends (whether Lions or not) because everyone is welcome to enjoy the music, entertainment, resort’s facilities and great food on offer with one of the weekend and single night packages.
• FUN and Camaraderie: Kick things off with a lively reception and enjoy a Superb Gala Dinner and dancing with fellow Lions and partners. Share laughs, stories, and great company. Stay and enjoy the Saturday Party Night with top class entertainment if you like.
• MEMBERSHIP MATTERS Ideas: Be inspired by Lion Stewart Sherman-Khan as he shares innovative Membership Matters ideas and initiatives you won’t have thought of.
• See the CHILDSIGHT UK Vision Screening Camera in Action: Discover the impact of this incredible tool that so many clubs have already invested in.
LEARN AND BE INSPIRED: Deepen your understanding of Lions Clubs International and bring fresh ideas back to energise your club.
Make it a Weekend.
Attending the Convention is FREE, but why not turn it into a long weekend getaway? The seaside location is perfect for relaxation, with dogfriendly accommodation available any time from Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 March. Explore scenic walks on the outskirts of Croyde and soak up the beauty of the coast, or relax at the resort with its bar, swimming pool and gym. It really is UP TO YOU what you do when you join us at this great location.
This is your chance to connect, collaborate, and celebrate with Lions from across the district and beyond. Let’s make this Convention the best yet –for the fun, the friendships, and the future of our great organisation. See you in Croyde!
YOUR FIRST CONVENTION? Don’t worry, there are no STRANGERS here, just friends you have yet to meet.
District Convention Booking Information
To book any of these packages just email Lion David Atkins liondatkins@btinternet.com or ring him on 01458 443055 to book or find out more.
Or simply Click on the Lions emblem here which will bring you to a site where you complete the individual forms depending on your preference
Going on 50
On the 9th January First Vice District Governor Lion
Richard Allen decided to take the train rather than risk the snow and ice driving on the A30 over Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor in order to reach Truro Lions where he had a special presentation to make.
Pictured here he presented to Lion Bob Moore a Certificate of Appreciation signed by Sophie Wessex the Duchess of Edinburgh , to recognise his 50 Years of Service to Lions.
Bob was originally badged at Trowbridge Lions in 1974 which was followed by Service at Boston, St. Austell and Truro Lions Clubs.
And naturally in return Lion Richard was presented with Truro Lions banner by President Mike Kalis
Just a brief note to thank all of the contributors this month. The deadline for the March issue will be the 25th February.
Please consider the information about our forthcoming Convention at Croyde Bay in March. It is a wonderful venue, the envy of all other Districts for its facilities and reasonable pricing. The event is well worth it so I hope to see you there
News from around the District– Crewkerne Lions Club
Crewkerne Lions Boxing Day Pram Race
Despite the damp murky morning, the crowds turned out to watch the 64th annual pram race. With a record of 5 Junior Teams and 7 adult teams, it provided quite a spectacle. The Junior Race was won by the under 14 Rugby Team whilst the adult
race was won by Oscar’s Wine Bar with their Wizard of Oz themed entry. Best design went to the Crewkerne Young Farmers with their Tractor Pram. Bucket collections raised £475 for the Lions Brain Tumour Research.
City of Wells Lions Club
The City of Wells Lion's Tree of Light moved to St Cuthbert's church for Christmas 2024 allowing people to include lost loved ones, by hanging a star with their name, on the tree. The blessing of the tree was included in the Longest Night service, and the names were read out. The picture here is of Lions Eve and Mary, with three of the people who welcomed the opportunity to hang a star.
News from around the District– Glastonbury & Street
HOWARD MARTIN MEMORIAL FUND
Howard Martin was a member of Glastonbury and Street Lions Club for many years and previous to that he had been both a Lion and a Leo in other parts of the country. He passed away in March 2023 and he left a very significant legacy to the club that it received in summer 2024. It was his wish that the legacy be used to support young people and the groups, schools, clubs and organisations in which they are involved in our local community. After discussion and thought the club set up the Howard Martin Memorial Fund and in the autumn invited grant applications from some local groups.
Lions Ronnie Harkness and Chris Ford presenting a cheque to members of staff at the school
A number of schools and groups took up the opportunity and one of the first to receive a grant was Baltonsborough CE VC Primary School. dren can explore the world around them and develop a sense of belonging. The club were particularly impressed by the teaching staff who had undertaken a 26 mile sponsored walk in aid of the project.
A club spokesperson said " It was Howard's wish that his legacy be used locally to help children and we believe that this project captures the essence of what he wanted to achieve and support. Other recent grants have included providing football kit to a local youth football team, sponsoring a musical workshop at a local infants school and helping the Sea Cadets complete a refurbishment project of a Portacabin at their headquarters. We will be welcoming further applications in the future."
News from around the District– Budleigh Salterton
RIP James Jefferson
James Jefferson, a proud member of Budleigh Salterton Lions Club. passed away peacefully on December 13 aged 83 years. His funeral took place on Tuesday 14 January when friends and fellow Lions gathered to remember Jim.
Jim was a very active member of the Lions. He was always to be found helping in every way he could, particularly in the regular litter picking and beach clean-up events held in Budleigh and Exmouth.
He will be sadly missed by Lions and the wider community.
News from around the District– Budleigh Salterton
Xmas day RNLI collection goes swimmingly
Christmas Day 2024 got going with a splash for Budleigh Salterton Lions Club and 100s of people who took part in the annual swim at Budleigh beach. The club were there to cheer on the swimmers – and collect money for the Exmouth RNLI who turn out to monitor proceedings. In previous years, the collections have raised hundreds of pounds for the lifesaving maritime charity and this year was no exception. Well done to all the swimmers, collectors and most of all the RNLI, who give up their precious time on Christmas day to ensure everyone’s safety at the event.
A grand total of £1533 was collected from the generous people gathered to swim (or watch from a dry distance). This was presented to the local RNLI at the Lions’ January meeting.
As an organisation that relies solely on charitable donations to continue its crucial work, the RNLI were grateful to the Lions and generous locals, saying: “It’s thanks to the efforts of groups like this that we can carry on launching our lifeboats. £1533 is no drop in the ocean and will certainly go a long way to help us save lives at sea.”
News from around the District– Tavistock Lions
On a surprisingly calm evening in early December, the day before storm Darragh caused the cancellation of outside stalls and events planned for Dickensian Evening, Alan Wroath, the President of Tavistock Lions turned on the Trees of Light on the front of the Town Hall. Started by the Club in 1999 with the lights being sponsored in remembrance of a departed loved one, the trees form the centre piece of the Town’s very popular Christmas lights. To date, over £170,000 has been raised for local charities and for the 2024 trees, the recipients will be Derriford Children’s Cancer Services, Marie Curie (Tavistock and Yelverton), Motor Neurone Disease Association (Plymouth) and Children’s Hospice South West. As ever, the Club’s thanks go to those organisations that have helped with the trees; South West Lakes Trust for donating them, the Town Council Works team for erecting and decorating them, the Tavistock Times Gazette for including the sponsorship form and the names of the sponsors in the paper and especially Simon and Lucie Luke of Morris Bros. (Tavistock) Ltd. who cover all the administrative costs ensuring that the pro-
With the cancellation of its BBQ on Dickensian Evening, it meant that the Club lost what was usually a very profitable event but it didn t mean that the Lions had nothing to do as for the fifth year, the Club ran its the Christmas postal delivery service for the Tavistock and Whitchurch area. With 8 collecting boxes around the town, around 3,000 cards were posted bearing the Lions’ 40p stamp which Club members and helpers delivered in the week leading up to Christmas. The Club was grateful to all of the outlets for hosting the boxes, Whitchurch post office being the most popular with around a third of the cards being posted there.
In 2018, Santa asked Tavistock Lions if they would accompany him on his sleigh as he toured the local primary and junior schools distributing presents which he cheekily asked the Club to pay for! The Club readily agreed and it proved to be a great success which both pupils and teachers so much so that the tour has been repeated every year since except for 2020 due to Covid. Tavistock Athletic Club donated £1,500 to the Club from its very successful relay race event held during Carnival Week and it was this money that was used to purchase the presents for the schools. So just before the end of term, the sleigh bearing Santa set off with help from the Lion's Elves to deliver the presents which
So, after a very busy period for the Club, which also included several bucket collections around the town which raised in excess of £1,700 and that’s before it claims back Gift Aid (!), the Lions will have a welldeserved rest before the planning starts for this year’s events including Carnival in July, the theme for which will be “Tell us a story”.
Lions' Post Box at Whitchurch Post Office with Lion President Alan Wroath and Lion Chris Northey
Santa and his sleigh at Mary Tavy and Brentor Primary School with the reception class
News from around the District– Truro Lions
Further to Truro Lions post covering our Christmas Hampers and Tesco Collection we have an important update !
On Thursday the 9th of January 2025 Lion President Mike Kalis presented a cheque for £1,800 to St.Petrocs at our monthly Club Meeting , which was followed by a talk to the club about St.Petrocs activities by Hugh Murrell who is their Community Champion.
In addition every Christmas Truro Lions make donations to a variety of local good causes . During Christmas 2024 this totalled £4,000 .
Our Donations included the following : Cascade Theatre Group, CHBN Radio, CHAOS Group, Cornwall Accessible Activities Programme(CAAP), Cornwall Blood Bikes, Devon and Cornwall Food Action Group, Mercy Rescue Trust, Cornwall Refuge Trust, Cornwall Youth Choir, Invictus Trust based at Bodmin Hospital for YP Mental Health,
LARF Cornwall( In memory of Lauren and Rosie), A local Family, Samaritans Truro, Shelterbox HQ Truro, Truro Memory Cafe, THAG( Truro Homeless Action Group)
President Mike Kalis presenting the
of St.Petrocs
News from around the District– Cheddar Vale Lions
Cheddar Vale Lions were pleased to answer the call from Wedmore Parish Council to participate in “Warm in Wedmore – a welcoming Warm Space open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am – 2pm during the winter months. We hosted the first week of opening in 2025 and were pleased to have lots of visitors, who were all appreciative of the warmth, hot drinks, delicious homemade soups and company they found in the Masonic Hall on these two very chilly days! This was the third year Cheddar Vale Lions had participated in this very successful and worthwhile community initiative.
Lion
cheque to Hugh Murrell
Lions Make it Warm in Wedmore!
News from around the District– Yeo Valley Lions
For twenty five years, Yeo Valley Lions Kingsmour Playground has been used by literally hundreds of families who have children with special needs and by organisations which support them. It has specially designed equipment and is a safe haven for children to let off steam and have social interaction between each other in a way not possible in a traditional playground. Because it is a safe place children can play and use their imagination whilst adults relax.
Yeo Valley Lions provide this facility as part of their service to the local community. It is free to registered users and funded by Lions’ fundraising activities and donations.
Recently, the parent of an autistic child, who is a member of the Playground decided to do some fundraising. This is Dan’s story.
“Back in the Summer, I aimed to raise £9,999 for three charities that are doing marvellous work within the Autistic community. My son, Leo, has Autism; he is non-verbal and faces growing challenges that will continue to grow with him as he does. However, this challenge and the desire to raise money for those making a difference, was inspired by a conversation with a father of a heavily autistically challenged young boy, who shared his and his partner’s incredibly tough pre diagnosis journey, at a SEND playground run by Yeo Valley Lions. Support for
families challenged with Autism, is equally important pre diagnosis as it is post diagnosis, and can make the difference in the pathway ahead, and that’s why Bristol Autism Support is one of my three charities giving invaluable help guidance and education to those presented with the unknown. We were very fortunate and blessed to have received such strong support from Leo’s nurseries. Once as a parent you reach the point of diagnosis and acceptance with Autism, to have organisations like Bears Foundation Spectrum Project, and Yeo Valley Lions making sport and play in the warmest of environments enjoyable to your child, is like a gift from above. So I wanted to accomplish something I had never even tried before, in order to give something to assist young Lions and Bears trying to find their Roar.”
Dan successfully completed a 100K Ultra Challenge in the Lake District, the Peak District and on Exmoor. The “ultra” is there for a reason! In fact, he walked/jogged 104k! He also organised two very
The result is that Dan exceeded his challenge and was able to donate £3,350 to each of the three charities.
The photograph shows Dan presenting a cheque for £3,350 to Yeo Valley Lions. In return, Yeo Valley Lions presented Dan with a Certificate of Appreciation. The presentation took place in Yeo Valley Lions Kingsmour Playground.
FINAL CALL
NEW PHOTO COMPETITION SERVICE
Despite covid we have all done some community service this awful year.
Show others what you have achieved!
Send your photos of your club helping in the community Encourage other clubs, having fun, doing good things in your community.
Being LIONS
!
Send entries to: Lion Veronica Whittle
8 Hopcott Terrace, Hopcott Road, Minehead TA24 6DW by February 3, 2021. Winner to be announced at District Convention , 28 March 2025
NOTE: “On the face of it, it appears that entries ought to have been submitted four years before the winners were to be announced. I’m sure that there is a lesson to be learnt here including failing to spot the error despite this appearing in 4 consecutive issues. Must do better.” Editor
The South West Young Ambassador for 2025 is sponsored by Cheddar Vale Lions Club.
Young Ambassador
Elissa Walkling lives in Axbridge and is a member of Cheddar Vale Rangers. She is a Young Leader with Cheddar Brownies. Through guiding Elissa has been involved in many community projects, these include annual bulb planting, helping with refreshments at the town council civic event and participating in the Axbridge Blackberry Carnival. She also assists with the co-ordination of collections for Cheddar Foodbank and providing gifts for a home for vulnerable adults
unit has to borrow tents. The £500 MD bursary will provide 3 modern tents.
Elissa is also a member of BEES, a drama group in Burnham.
Elissa has identified that the tents used for style ones (from the 1950s) and need a large vehicle to transport them. Therefore, to organise camps the
Please join us in Dudley to support Elissa. You can attend either for the weekend, Saturday evening and Sunday morning or come on the Sunday mornpresentations and the Young Ambassador and Shipshape Award ‘winners’ for 2025 will be announced.
Toby Duckenfield our Young Ambassador for 2024 received the Shipshape Award. He will be in Dudley to help with the weekend and give a presentation of his experience with the Tall Ships Sailing Trust.
The social booking form and details of how to book bed and breakfast is on the Multiple District Website Members area, lionsclubs.co.uk Or email me for more information on smarsh@lions105sw.org.uk The Young Ambassador weekend is an inspirational event, please come and support Elissa our Young Ambassador 2025.
We all wish Elissa all the best for the Young Ambassador Award in Dudley, February 21st – 23rd 2025.
Youth Exchange 2025
Incoming
Youth Exchange Family hosting 2025 will be from the 1st to 11th August with the Camp running from 11th – 21st August. On the 11th participants are to arrive after 2pm; host families will be welcome to transport their participants to the venue. All other participants are to travel to Rickmansworth railway station where minibus transport will be available to take them to the Camp.
I am currently looking for hosts. From experience I have discovered that hosting works if organised in zones. Sharing the organising of days out and accommodation. This model has been operating in Zone K for several years. With days out organised in Wells, Cheddar, Wedmore, Glastonbury, Street, Bath, Keynsham and Bristol. Zones can join together to provide a cultural experience of life in the South West and the opportunity to start to get to know each other.
The Gala Dinner will be held on Tuesday 19th August and invitations will be extended to District Officers and Host families, to attend.
The 2025 Youth Camp is being hosted by District A and held at the Royal Masonic School for Girls, Rickmansworth.
London Heathrow is to be the arrival and departure airport. A team will be at the Airport to meet and greet participants and assist them to their host family destination; Host families will be welcome to collect their participants personally, if convenient.
Outgoing
If you and your club know a young person who would benefit from the experience of an Outward Youth Exchange, then please get in touch for more information and the procedure to identify and apply to the countries of your choice. smarsh@lions105sw.org.uk
March 28th 2025
WEAR A HAT DAY
If you wish to hold a bucket collection or event for Lions Brain Tumour Research Appeal
I have a few hats, as modelled above, leaflets, pins and mugs. Just contact me on 01460 72305 (Fred Broom)
Lions
There was no limit to the imagination and artistic skills of the young people who took part in this year’s Peace Poster Contest – Peace Without Limits. Five Clubs ran a total of seven contests in schools and youth groups across District, with at least 550 students taking part overall. DG Kevin had the difficult task of judging the posters.
Congratulations to Cheddar Vale Lions Club for sponsoring the winning poster, which has now been sent to MDHQ to be judged at the Multiple-District level of the contest.
Congratulations also to Crediton and District Lions Club on achieving second place and Lions Club of Sidmouth on winning third place.
All three winning students have been invited to receive their awards at District Convention on Saturday 29th March, where all of the winning posters will be on display.
Thank you to all the Clubs who sponsored a Peace
Poster Contest this year. I’m sure those who took part will agree it’s a good way to make a connection with local schools and youth groups, and a great opportunity to promote the work of Lions Clubs in your local community. It is hoped that Kits for the 2024-25 Peace Poster Contest will be available in time for Convention. I will be happy to assist Clubs who would like to have a go at running a Peace Poster Contest in the coming year.
Lion Theresa Warrell District Peace Poster Officer
First Prize Cheddar Vale
Second Prize Crediton
Third Prize Sidmouth
News from around the District—Clevedon Lions
Christmas in Clevedon started on December 1st when Clevedon Lions Club took Eric the Lion out around town to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. Here he is with Lion Sue Miller among the locals getting their Christmas shopping.
December 2nd saw the start of the Santa visits, with 3 nights a week planned to travel around Clevedon with his sleigh. We were fortunate to have the help
of Clevedon Fire Fighters, along with a fire engine, for each trip and apart from the first night when they were called to a fire, they were a valued addition to our team. The fire engine, as you can imagine, proved to be very popular with children. On the couple of occasions when we had to cancel due to the weather, we were able to reschedule so that all but one of the areas were visited. The money collected was divided between Clevedon Lions Club charities and the Fire Fighters Charity.
Environmental Initiatives in 105SW—Lion Alan Sanderson MJF
We have recently received LCIF appeals in response to the devastation caused by uncontrollable wildfires raging in Los Angeles. This appeal came just months after unprecedented flooding in Spain which killed over 200 people. These events, in part driven by climate change, resonate with extensive flooding experienced throughout the UK.
New data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service showed that the average temperature in 2024 was 1.6C above pre-industrial levels, thereby exceeding the target of limiting warming to below 1.5 degrees. This target was an attempt to prevent the deadliest effects of the climate crisis and breaching this limit will be catastrophic for humanity.
One of the fundamental pillars of Lionism is the protection of our environment thus, clubs through their involvement in community initiatives, are ideally placed to encourage discussion amongst community members regarding the effects of the use of fossil fuels, and how both individually and collectively people can start to make a difference in addressing the coming challenges.
It is understood that clubs already have extensive workloads, which fully occupy their members so
105SW will, as a pilot scheme, purchase a banner for use at Lion’s events. This banner will provide the following information:
A main heading such as "Protecting our Environment Together;"
A large image of Lions doing a 'clean-up' and/or planting trees;
A brief list of LCI environmental initiatives; and, Contact information/find out more - with a QR code linking to a suitable LCI Environment Website Page which is now available.
The environmental team has compiled a library of resources addressing the issues of environmental awareness, climate change education and advocacy and by using a QR code we can make effective use of social media avoiding the printing of leaflets.
It is envisaged that if we receive a steady flow of visitors to the website then the pilot scheme can be extended by the purchase of more banners.
Diabetes Awareness—Tom Miner: District Diabetes Officer
This month, I thought I would offer a no sugar dessert recipe suitable for people with diabetes. At the January MD zoom meeting we decided to focus on the prevention of Type 2 diabetes mainly through exercise and healthy eating, so reducing free sugar intake is a good start. This recipe may also be a good idea for a Charter Night dessert menu as an alternative to the humble but healthy fruit salad. If you have diabetes, it is good not just to see a diabetes option but to have a choice on the menu and not be fobbed off with the usual dietary requirement.
This month’s recipe is provided by Bronwyn Nott, Secretary of Crediton Lions. It looks good, tastes good and is dead easy to make.
Sugar Free Raspberry Cheesecake
Ingredients:
2 x 165g Philadelphia cream cheese ( 1 tub full fat and 1 tub of light seems to work best)
150g sugar free digestive biscuits
80g melted butter
1 packet Hartleys sugar free raspberry jelly
100ml boiling water
Fresh raspberries to decorate
Method:
Crush biscuits and add melted butter, press firmly into the base of a 7in cake tin and pop into fridge for several minutes to set.
Meanwhile, put cheese in a large mixing bowl and tip jelly crystals into another bowl and add 100ml boiling water. Stir well until crystals are fully dissolved.
Add jelly to cheese, fold in and whisk to the consistency of double cream. Pour or spoon mixture onto the cooled biscuit base and return to set in fridge. Before setting completely, decorate with fresh raspberries and return to fridge. The cheesecake mixture does set quite quickly. 18gcarbs/ 50g cheesecake. ******
Thank you to Bronwyn for the recipe, I have tweaked it a little, sorry. If any fellow Lions have a favourite dessert recipe (short and easy please) suitable for individuals with diabetes please send to Tom at diabetes@budleighlions.com
Become a Guiding Lion and Help Shape Our District’s Future!
As members of Lions Clubs International, we share a commitment to strengthening our communities and ensuring the success of our clubs. To continue this legacy, District 105SW is seeking passionate and experienced Lions to step forward and serve as Guiding Lions.
What is a Guiding Lion?
A Guiding Lion is a dedicated mentor and leader who helps new or struggling Lions Clubs thrive. By sharing your knowledge, expertise, and enthusiasm, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring the long-term success of clubs within our district.
Guiding Lions provide support in:
• Assisting with club operations and administration.
• Coaching leaders to develop strong, engaged teams.
• Offering tools and strategies to grow membership and enhance service impact.
• Encouraging clubs to embrace Lions’ goals and values.
Why Become a Guiding Lion?
• Make a Greater Impact: Directly contribute to the growth and sustainability of our district.
• Develop Leadership Skills: Enhance your mentoring, coaching, and communication abilities.
• Support Fellow Lions: Empower club leaders to
succeed and build strong teams.
• Strengthen the Lions Family: Foster a spirit of collaboration and service across clubs.
Who Can Be a Guiding Lion?
We are looking for experienced Lions who:
• Are committed to supporting new or rebuilding clubs.
• Have strong organizational and leadership skills.
• Are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge and experience with others.
If you would like to become a Guiding Lion, you must complete the Guiding Lion training course provided by Lions Clubs International. This training equips you with the skills and resources needed to guide clubs effectively.
How to Get Involved
Ideally we need to have guiding lions spread throughout the District, north, south, east and west!
If you’re ready to take on this rewarding role, we’d love to hear from you!
Please contact FVDG Richard Allen racdm13@gmail.com to express your interest. You’ll receive information on training opportunities and next steps.
Together, We Serve
Becoming a Guiding Lion is more than a role it’s a chance to leave a lasting legacy in our district. By empowering clubs and leaders, you’ll help strengthen the foundation of our service and ensure our mission continues to flourish.
Thank you for considering this exciting opportunity. Let’s work together to build a stronger district and make a greater impact in our communities.
FVDG Richard Allen
News from around the District—Ilminster and District Lions
As we head towards February, the shortest month of the year that for some reason always seems the longest, Ilminster and District Lions have retreated indoors not only for the odd social, but to plan for the year ahead.
We like to support The Shrubbery Hotel, Ilminster, in return for the valuable help they give us by providing meeting rooms and a venue for some of our fundraising events.
On the 19 January, a handful of our members enjoyed Sunday lunch. President Shirley said, “the food at the Shrubbery is always good, and it’s great to be able to chat about anything and everything with likeminded people”. She didn’t say, but a bit of business was done – isn’t it always?
Another day, another table! This time the fundraising committee sought inspiration from a latte. It worked – our fundraising programme for this year already includes:
17 February – a presentation by Yeovil Blood Bikes at The Shrubbery Hotel, Ilminster. A cheque will be presented, and the buckets will be out!
Lion Patricia (our lead on fundraising) is very excited about the year ahead, which will also include some known favourites (yet to be finalised) and some new experiences within our wider district.
Lions have a healthy appetite - we will also be celebrating Burns Night, whilst supporting the Shepton Beauchamp Events Team, at their village hall and will be tucking into a carvery at the Flying Fish at the end of February.
From a business point of view we are looking into sharing the load and improving our efficiency as well as lessening the loss of income now that people don’t carry cash. Should any other club have found the magic answer do let us know.
As always our thanks go to our members and the support of our community without whom we could not achieve our objectives.
Fashion Show at The Shrubbery Hotel,
Ilminster in aid of St Margarets Hospice.
Calling All Lions: Step Up for District Officer Roles!
As Lions, we are united by our passion for service and making a difference in our communities. Our district thrives because of the dedication, talent, and leadership of members like you. To continue our success and growth, we are looking for enthusiastic Lions to step up and take on district officer roles and positions and become part of the district team for the upcoming Lions year 2025-26.
Why Consider a District Role?
Becoming a district officer is a unique opportunity to:
Make a Greater Impact: Shape the vision and direction of our district’s service initiatives.
Develop Leadership Skills: Gain valuable experience in leadership, organisation, and teamwork.
Network and Collaborate: Work alongside inspiring Lions across our district, multiple district and beyond.
Inspire and Support: Empower clubs and members to help them achieve their full potential.
Help our District Grow: By helping to revitalise clubs with new members and re-motivating existing members with fellowship and exciting service opportunities
Positions Include (but not limited to):
District Secretary
District Administrator
District Treasurer
Global Membership Team members – helping the Global Membership and Global Extension District Coordinators increase membership
Global Leadership Team members – identifying training and leadership development opportunities, helping to organise and/or facilitate local district and club learning events
New Voices Officers - to promote the New Voices initiative of diversity and inclusion and support for Lions who have been members less than 5 years
District Officers for - Mental Health & Wellbeing, Hunger, Childhood Cancer, Deaf
Awareness, Dementia Awareness, Youth Exchange and others!
Convention Team members - helping to organise the District Convention
PR & Marketing Coordinator - and team members to help with the district website, Facebook, poster design etc
Whatever your background or experience level, there is a role for you! Training and support will be provided to ensure you feel confident and equipped to succeed.
How to Express Interest
If you are ready to take the next step in your Lions journey, we’d love to hear from you! Please send an email to First Vice District Governor Richard Allen (racdm13@gmail.com) with the following:
1. Your name and club.
2. The position(s) you are interested in.
3. A brief statement about why you’d like to serve in a district role.
If you’re unsure which role suits you best, feel free to reach out for guidance we’ll help match your interests and skills to the right opportunity. Together, We Serve
This is your chance to help shape the future of our district and expand your impact as a Lion. Let’s work together to ensure our district continues to grow and thrive.
Thank you for your service and dedication to our mission. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
Marathon effort for Brain Tumour Research
Our 2nd VDG Lion Phil Bunt of Newquay Towan Blystra Lions is running this year’s LONDON MARATHON in aid of Brain Tumour Research and he has a target to raise £3,500 for this important cause. With almost half this amount already raised, Phil is hoping the generosity of some of his Lions friends can go towards the final push leading up to the event itself on 27 April.
"I have been running for a few years now and always wanted to do a marathon so agreeing to run for Brain Tumour Research seemed important because of a Lion in my club who has been affected by this issue himself”, said Phil.
“My friend, and fellow Towan Blystra Lion Kevin Towill, was diagnosed with a brain tumour and it was operated on almost a year ago. Kevin was only 44 at the time and an active member of the community being both a Cornwall and Newquay Towan Councillor. He returned from hospital and nursing home care only a few weeks ago having encountered medical issues following the removal of the tumour and he is now back home and receiving care there."
Despite Kevin still needing some assistance, he is well enough to continue his council duties and is planning to stand for election again in May.
“Kevin has kept a great sense of humour throughout all he’s been through and is inspirational in the way he has dealt with this. In November, he joined us for our Lions meeting by Zoom and is planning to continue helping others through our club and all the other links he has to the community through his connections and council duties”, added Phil.
If you are able to help Phil support this worthy cause, please either contact him directly at pbunt@lions105sw.org.uk or ring him on 07971 031575. Alternatively, you can use the QR code shown to go directly to Phil’s JUST GIVING PAGE that will enable donations to immediately go to the charity.
Phil in his Brain Tumour Research Running Vest
Phil, DG Julian Chadwick and Kevin when Kevin was welcomed into the Lions in 2012
Membership Matters
The Importance of Membership in Lions District 105SW
Membership is the lifeblood of Lions District 105SW. Each member brings unique skills, perspectives, and passions that enhance our ability to serve our communities. With more members, we can achieve greater impact, support more projects, and expand our reach to those in need.
In a world where challenges are constantly evolving, Lions Clubs provide a platform for individuals to connect, collaborate, and make a difference. Being part of this global network fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, empowering members to lead impactful initiatives while building lifelong friendships. From supporting local causes to contributing to international efforts, Lions members are changemakers, united by a shared commitment to service.
To ensure that we continue to grow and thrive, it is essential to focus on attracting new members and retaining our existing ones. Membership development is not just about increasing numbers; it’s about fostering an inclusive and vibrant community where everyone feels valued and inspired to contribute.
Join the Next Membership Matters Meeting
District 105SW is hosting the next monthly Membership Matters meeting via Zoom on Monday, 27 January, from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. This meeting is an excellent opportunity for members and prospective Lions to learn, share ideas, and discuss strategies to strengthen our clubs and enhance member engagement.
The previous four meetings have been well attended and a number of actions are already being progressed. We encourage all Lions and those interested in joining to attend. Let’s come together to share insights, explore opportunities, and build a stronger future for our district.
Zoom Details:
Meeting ID: 872 4092 5789
Passcode: 992507
Your participation matters. Let’s work together to ensure that Lions District 105SW continues to grow, innovate, and serve. See you on the 27th!
News from around the District—Weymouth & Portland Lions
At the Weymouth & Portland Lions Club Christmas Dinner held at Weymouth Golf Club Debbie and Stephen Corney from Modern Magazines were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by the Lions Club President Ryan Hope for their support of the Weymouth Beach Motocross programme. At the same event Lion Trevor Stratton and Lion Kevin Brookes both received the Melvyn Jones Fellowship Award and are pictured here.
Debbie & Stephen Corney with their Certificate of Appreciation
Steve Lockie being recognised
Trevor Stratton receives his MJF
Kevin Brookes receives his MJF
News from around the District—Blackmore Vale Lions
Nearly Ready for a New Year!
For a number of reasons January is a really busy month for our members without outsiders seeing much activity from Blackmore Vale Lions. Lots of things are happening but it’s like swans proceeding upstream; all is serene on the surface whilst underwater the legs are going at a thousand rpm.
Obviously, the Blackmore Vale Half Marathon on Sunday 2 Feb at Bishops Caundle Recreation Ground (Race HQ the Village Hall, Holt Lane) is our major focus. It kick-starts our year and is a crash course in galvanizing ourselves after the Christmas and New Year Break. We seem to be just about ready although seasonal illnesses have depleted the numbers of helpers resulting in the management team hunting down alternative helpers. Can you help? How we will fare in the absence of our long serving Race Secretary remains to be seen. The start is at 11.00 and on course entries close at 10.00 at the village hall. Chief Marshal Bill Brown and Ray Hall went out and put warning notices and markers on the course the statutory 4 weeks before the event, i.e. the first weekend of the New Year, which was a pretty quick way to disperse the holiday cobwebs.
rose and Sainsbury s stores in Sherborne, The Udder Farm Shop West Stour and Morrisson’s Wincanton for allowing us to use their forecourts or lobbies.
A further item of good news was that at our January meeting we welcomed and badged John Chater as a fully-fledged Lion. John is a working civil engineer and a welcome addition to the club. He has already helped out at several events. We hope he enjoys being a Lion as much as we all do.
An item of good news was our Christmas Bucket Collections. We did stints outside five of our local supermarkets/shops and despite the awful weather raised over £700.00. The term bucket shake is frowned upon but given the weather the buckets really did shake. We picked five days when the weather was awful, three of them had named storms and the other two had yellow weather warnings for wind and rain. Members braved awful conditions to be present and keep the KLIPS (Keep Lions In Plain Sight) ethos going. The buckets literally rattled in the wind which at times was enough to blow people over. Our thanks therefore go to the patrons of the shops for even pausing in the awful conditions to donate and the Owners, Managers and Teams at Harts of Stur, Wait-
A piece of internal news is that after an age as the President of the Blackmore Vale Lions Club, and in several other roles as well, Peter Oswick has stood down from office. Peter has been both active and persistent in Blackmore Vale, not just the club, and in the wider Lions movement over many years in his many roles but It is as President he will be best remembered. There are many people in the Blackmore Vale and the wider Lions Club movement who have benefited from his knowledge and energy. Before he came to Blackmore Vale, he was active with Lions in Surrey. We are glad he will continue as a Lion bringing his knowledge and experience to help the club in the future. Tim Otter assumed the role of President on New Years Day.
