LION Magazine Autumn/Winter 2023 by LionsClubsBritishIsles

Autumn/Winter 2023 www.lionsclubs.co

The Magazine of Lions Clubs British Isles

International President Dr. Patti Hill has great plans for Lions and Leos

NEXT ISSUE

LION Magazine For further details about contributing to the LION, see: https://lionsclubs.co/Public/lion-magazine LION Magazine wants to hear from you. Get in touch with the editorial team with your stories, photographs, projects, activities. The theme of the Spring 2024 edition is:

Focus on local communities

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Submit your text as an attachment in an email, with accompanying photographs to: lion.editorial@lionsclubs.co by end of February 2024.

Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash

Show us the difference Lions make in your local community. Share details of the events, projects and initiatives that serve others.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER Dear Lion, As a Lion, you proudly serve every day in so many ways. While you’re busy making a local impact, it’s important to remember that you are also part of a powerful global network of volunteers committed to making our communities — and our world — a better place. Together, we are changing lives one service project at a time. Even though we serve in our own corners of the world, the beauty of being a Lion is that we are all guided by the same mission and are continually inspired by one another. See for yourself how you are part of something bigger. Read our impact stories and watch our service videos https://www.youtube.com/@lionsclubs Then be sure to share your own. Report your service so the world can see the impact you’re making. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the world of Lions, join us June 21-25 in Melbourne, Australia, for our international convention. There is no greater feeling than joining together to give our time and our talents to help those in need. Thank you for your commitment to creating the change that empowers others to achieve their potential. Once again, I thank you for proudly showing the world what it means to be a Lion. Yours in service

Dr. Patti Hill International President Lions International

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

CONTENTS

LION Magazine Autumn/Winter 2023

6-7

SANTA DASH

8-9

THE LION TRAIN

RESPITE LODGES

BUZZZZZZING …HONEY FAIR

12-13

LET THE MUSIC PLAY

IT IS FUN TO HAVE FUN

WINNING TOGETHER

16-17

BEACH CLEANS AND LITTER PICKS

FIREWORKS AND TORCHLIGHT PARADE

‘ICYMI’ IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

20-23

COMMUNITY STORIES

24-24

TIME TO REFLECT

26-27

WELCOME 2024

THE LION GUIDE TO CASHLESS PAYMENTS

ADVERT – QANTAS

30-31

ADVERT – JTA TRAVEL

32-33

CHANGING THE WORLD

34-37

LCIF STORIES

CONTACT DETAILS

LIONS STEP FORWARD RESOURCES

Lions Clubs International: MD105 British Isles, 257 Alcester Road South, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 6DT.

ROAR 2023 WINNERS

41-45

NEW MEMBERS

Telephone: 0121 441 4544 Email: enquiries@lionsclubs.co Web: www.lionsclubs.co

A LION’S TALE

IN-MEMORIAM

ADVERT – RIVIERA TRAVEL

#JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #StepForward

THE LION MAGAZINE [British Isles Edition] Published by MD105 British Isles on behalf of Lions International, 300 22nd Street, Oak Brook, Illinois 60570, USA.

Please pass this copy on to someone else to read and enjoy. Even better would be if you are able to leave it somewhere in your local community where others will be able to learn more about who Lions are and what they do. Thank you.

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

CONTENTS

The theme of this Autumn/Winter issue of LION Magazine is ‘Together we achieve more’. This is true whenever and wherever Lions get involved with good causes. You can read about many ways that Lions care and help others as local community volunteers. We show how we bring people together to create memories, fulfil dreams, and make a difference. There is so much talent, creativity, and imagination behind the stories we share. We thank everyone who supports Lions and we are delighted to welcome our newest members. www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

MAKING MEMORIES Lions Clubs create memorable traditions in local communities across the British Isles. In the spirit of the season, this means coming together to achieve more. New initiatives join established activities - kept fresh each year to move with the times. Memories are made by Lions as they plan ahead, come up with ideas, and have fun figuring out how to make them work. Over the following pages we share stories of working with others from two busy clubs: Romiley and Marple Lions and Burnham-On-Sea Lions.

Image by kjpargeter on Freepik

The Dragon Miniature Railway (DMR) at Dobbies’ Marple Garden Centre is a magical place at Christmas. Brian Lomas and his colleagues run DMR throughout the year, and work with Romiley and Marple Lions to create a beautifully decorated grotto for Father Christmas to welcome visitors arriving by train. Photographs reproduced with kind permission of Dean Standring Photography

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Santa Dash

“Our first Santa Dash was in 2009 and over the years, it has become a popular fun run, perfect for all the family”, says Terry Harding of Romiley and Marple Lions.

Facts and figures: Route length: 1.6 miles Entry fee per person: £10 (including for children) Entrants each year: 200 Charity partner: Kidneys for Life

“The entry fee includes a Santa suit, or ‘dashers’ can wear their own. Junior Santa dashers receive a gift and all those taking part are given a voucher to ride on the Dragon Miniature Railway, before Easter 2024.” “Participants are invited to raise funds for Kidneys for Life, which supports renal units in all our local hospitals. After costs, all money from registration fees goes into the club’s charity account to help others where needed.”

A new route for the 2023 Santa Dash starts and ends at Marple Memorial Park. Registration and suit collection on the day is from 10am, with a warm up organised by Sarah Lee Fitness starting at 10.45. Route support is provided by the Air Cadets, with Christmas music by VariVocals Choir. Refreshments and gifts for Junior Santa Dashers are available at the Marple Scout Hut. Promotion for the event is boosted by Victoria Thomson and Penny McKnight. Romiley and Marple Lions thank everyone who helps with the event. www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

In 1837 the Liverpool & Manchester Railway ordered two locomotives to haul luggage trains, later named ‘Lion’ and ‘Tiger’. Lion appeared in three films, the last being ‘The Titfield Thunderbolt’, which made her something of a celebrity. Withdrawn from steaming in 1989, Lion is on display at the National Museum Liverpool, and conserved for her internationally important status. To learn more about the Lion locomotive, visit: https://www. liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/artifact/ liverpool-manchester-railwaylocomotive-lion An incredibly long queue of children waiting to see Santa and Rufus the Lion, enjoyed Christmas music played from the Lion train. In his grotto, Santa met and gave gifts to over 250 children.

The revamped Lion locomotive made its debut at the town’s Guy Fawkes Carnival procession. With special thanks to friends from Minehead Lions and Cheltenham Lions who helped with a bucket collection. A team of Lions dedicated their skills over many hours to strip down and rebuild the train that was made originally about 12-15 years ago. It is used to raise funds and help take Santa into town for the Christmas lights switch-on.

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Photographs reproduced with kind permission of Doug Plume

THE LION TRAIN

Burnham-On-Sea Lions ensure Santa and his helper, Rufus the Lion, travel in style thanks to a fantastic transport makeover, explains club president, Phil Cooke. “We felt our existing train needed a revamp and decided to base the design on the steam engine ‘Lion’, which featured in the 1953 Ealing comedy The Titfield Thunderbolt.” “The refurbishment was great fun and included painting, replacing the electrics, and updating the sound system.” “We’re especially grateful to Damien Nicholson who created the fantastic interchangeable pictures of a Lion’s head for year-round fund-raising, and Santa, which we’ll use at Christmas.” “Everyone did such a great job that for the first time the train was included in the popular Burnham-On-Sea Carnival procession.” www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Noah’s Retreat A place where families with children living with cancer can visit together is a dream come true for Noah Herniman who has an inoperable brain tumour. Noah from Chepstow in South Wales has a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis (NF1). In 2021, at 15 years old, Noah was diagnosed with a low-grade glioma. The tumour is inoperable, and radiation is not advised for people with NF1, so his only option has been chemotherapy. Having supported charities from a young age through his Make Someone Smile project, Noah decided to raise funds for a respite lodge for families to enjoy a break when undergoing cancer treatment. A substantial donation from Chepstow and Caldicot Lions, plus funds raised from the public, local businesses and charities, has helped inspirational Noah achieve his dream. Noah’s Retreat at Burnham-On-Sea, has been donated to Kids Cancer Charity to run. The accommodation is undergoing refurbishment which will include wheelchair access. To learn more about Noah and support his fundraising, visit: Noahs Brain Tumour Journey/chemotherapy https://www.facebook.com/groups/262263725804476 For bookings at Noah’s Retreat, contact Natalie by email: ukbreaks@kidscancercharity.org

Cheltenham Lions also have a caravan in Burnham-On-Sea providing holidays for those in its local community who would benefit from a break at the seaside. The club has gifted holidays for 40 years through links to families and through associations, such as with Acorns Children’s Hospice. Funds are raised from concerts arranged by member David Green, for instance with the Treorchy Male Choir. Support is provided by Burnham-On-Sea Lions whose member, Colin Rufus, a carpenter by trade, checks the caravan weekly, and made its accessibility ramp.

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Buzzzzzzing ...Honey Fair Callington Lions got busy with a hive of helpers for its family focused event. Henry III granted the Cornish town a charter for a honey market day over 750 years ago. Since then, the first Wednesday in October has been known as Callington Honey Fair. For over 40 years, this has been the major event of Callington Lions, and this year it switched to being held on a Saturday. The Callington Pannier Market, normally held on Sunday, also changed to Saturday. As well as a record 130 Honey Fair stalls, there were traditional activities and various types of entertainment. These featured musical performers, an inflatable theme park, beekeeper displays, ‘Teas with the Bees’, a ‘unicorn’ to pet, face painting, town criers, shop window displays, and over 800 pictures in a children’s painting contest. Over 5,500 people attended the event, where new ideas included reducing plastic and recycling bins to keep the streets clean. Plus a quiet sensory area for children and a dementia café. An online raffle with a difference saw items bought to support local businesses raise over £1,000 for Callington Lions’ charities. With thanks to everyone who made the event a success including: Andy Campfield (photographer), BBC Radio Cornwall, SHARE (recycling group), Diverse Events, and members of six Lions Clubs (St Austell, Torpoint & Rame Peninsula, Looe, Launceston, Tavistock, and Plymouth Tamar).

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Lincoln Lions hosted a charity concert in the city’s cathedral in memory of member Don Stewart. Attended by 330 people, the event featured the South Wales Male Choir - which wishes to perform in every UK cathedral - and the RAF Waddington Military Wives Choir. Don was involved in organising the concert, originally scheduled to celebrate Lincoln Lions 50th year in 2020.

Reproduced with kind permission of Ed Sewell

During a cultural visit to the UK by Pearl of Africa children’s choir, Thirsk and Northallerton Lions volunteered to drive a van carrying equipment. The choir’s performances raise funds for the children’s school in Uganda. To learn more about the charity, see: https://pearlofafrica.org.uk

Christmas Carols

Kenilworth Lions annual Carols at the Castle

event saw the Coventry Salvation Army band, joined by children from Kenilworth and St

Augustine’s schools, lead the festive singing

among the ancient castle ruins lit by lanterns. Carols for Everyone is a festive family

concert organised by Southwell and District Lions in the Minster in aid of Maggie’s

Centre in Nottingham, which provides support for cancer patients.

A free carol concert featuring the Amazing Anston All Male Voice Choir - plus

complimentary hot drinks and buffet - was held by Maltby and Rother Valley Lions. 12

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Let the music play

National award winning Lions Youth Brass is based in Sandbach, Cheshire. The charitable organisation has three bands - Debut, Academy and Youth - and welcomes all young people aged 6-18 years of any ability, no experience necessary. Congleton Lions club has been a sponsor for over 30 years, with several other clubs getting involved during this time. Earlier this year, Alsager Lions made a generous donation for a crowd-pleasing performance featuring all three bands. Sadly Nigel Birch, Lions Youth Brass Musical Director for 35 years, passed in February. His legacy continues with Ian Raisbeck picking up the baton to give young people the opportunity to form lifelong friendships through music. In 2023, as well as several Christmas performances, Lions Youth Brass played Uttoxeter and went on tour visiting Weymouth, Portland, Poole, and Bournemouth (supported by the local Lions). For further details, including performance dates, visit: https://lionsyouthbrass.band

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

It is fun to have fun Dr. Seuss (The Cat in the Hat)

You don’t have to be quackers to organise a Lions duck race - but it helps! A fun and fantastic way to raise funds for good causes, attract crowds of people, and bring together supporters, businesses, and community groups. Cheddar Vale Lions’ fun-filled annual duck race in Cheddar Gorge has raised £27,800 for Children’s Hospice Southwest over the past 30 years.

A slow duck-by-duck commentary from Peterborough City Radio presenter Keith Dawson, gentle guidance from Peterborough Canoe Club and a patient welcome at the finish line by a remote controlled ‘duck’ operated by Doug Thompson from Peterborough Model Boat Club.

With older ducks retiring, support from Hanson’s Quarry helped fund 1,000 new ducks. Tickets are sold to sponsor ducks in two races down the River Yeo. Crowds of locals and visitors are joined by those watching a live stream on Facebook.

You can always count on a Cheddar Vale Lion!

The crazy fun day by the River Welland in Deeping St James featured a huge inflatable called ‘Big Duck Lucky’, 3,000 sponsored ducks in the Hegarty’s Championship Cup, plus three races for larger ducks (Estate Agents Dash, Shops Derby, and Publicans Chase). Deeping Lions ‘world famous’ event was opened by Parish Council chair, Kate Shinkins-Hoppe, with Holly Hendricks, Deputy South Holland ambassador, in charge of the starting klaxon. Local stall traders, entertainers and charities created a buzz in a busy street fair. Volunteer community groups offering support were Spalding and Trinity Lions, Deepings Rotary and Round Table, Lincolnshire Community Response, Deepings Raft Race, and Deeping United Football Club. Dementia Support South Lincs and Alzheimer’s Research UK each received donations from the day. 14

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Children’s Hospice Southwest was founded in 1991 by Eddie and Jill Farwell. Their two eldest children had life-limiting illnesses and the country’s only children’s hospice, in Oxford, was over four hours away. Lions clubs across the South West were involved in fund-raising appeals for three children’s hospices in the region that today support families from Cornwall to South Gloucestershire.

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Winning Together Dear dragons from Mars, I think you’re the best! Would you like to see Earth and stay here as my guest? Deborah Aronson (Dragons from Mars) The Martians landed in the sandpits on Horsell Common in HG Wells novel, The War of the Worlds. Entrants in Woking Lions’ Martian race are privileged to run on this privately owned common land with public access. Respecting this Site of Special Scientific Interest, the club takes its environmental responsibilities seriously. The route is chosen to minimise impact on flora and fauna. The race is litter free and pledges to avoid single-use plastics. Local runners plan and manage the event, which offers 2k (mini Martian race), 5k, 10k, and 21k distances. Sponsors, supporters, and marshals are also an essential part of the team.

Racing dragons are traditional long, sleek Chinese wooden boats. A leader in the bow beats a drum to set the pace of 20 paddlers. The final team member stands in the stern to steer the boat with a rudder.

First run in 2016, this year’s race raised £13,400 for local causes. Beneficiaries include Woking Citizens’ Advice, LinkAble (supporting people with learning disabilities), and three local schools.

Tonbridge Lions Dragon Boat Race takes place on the River Medway in the town’s centre. Crowds lining the banks watched 22 teams in a series of races. The three fastest contested a thrilling finale, with under a second between winners, Boars with Oars, runners up, Mums & Dads Army, and third-place team, Anatomy. The club thanks everyone for their support, especially Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, Nick on the chequered flag, and Dragon Boats Events Ltd. www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

“A group of children went on a litter pick around our wonderful village with Lion Graham Burch. Conversations between Budleigh Salterton Lions and three local primary schools explored ideas to work together on environmental issues. They agreed to involve pupils in beach cleans and litter picks. Club president, Richard Allen explains what happened next.

They were really shocked to find lots of items in the stream. What was beautiful was that local villagers thanked them for clearing out the litter” Emma Cocker, teacher at Otterton Primary School.

“We noticed takeaway debris on roadside verges, and met with the franchise owner of the McDonalds restaurant to see if we could help address this. The outcome was an invitation for staff to litter pick with us, and additional litter picking equipment was purchased for the club.” “Next, we received the Keep Britain Tidy ‘Great Big School Clean Kit’ that included litter pickers for ten children.” “St. Peter’s school was the first to use the new kit with headmaster, Steve Hitchcock asking if a different year group could take part each Friday morning during the Summer term.” “So each week we met with one class of children, their teachers and classroom assistants on the beach or the ‘Green’ to pick up litter.”

Cleaning the village stream Seafront litter squad

“In the Autumn term, we set up beach cleans and litter picks with children, parents and teachers from Otterton and Drakes primary schools.” “We took time to show children debris from barbecues and beach fires and how the heat causes pebbles to split, which along with nails and screws from burnt wood and broken bottles, are very dangerous.” “Another part of the project came from the children at Otterton, who wanted to design posters. We offered to sponsor a school competition and donate art materials as class prizes.”

“The children really enjoyed the litter picks and knowing they helped keep wildlife safe”

“The competition has been agreed with each of the three schools for next year.”

Jemima Moore, teacher at St. Peter’s Primary School.

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Beach

cleans

Litter picks

Learning about beach litter.

School Environmental Project Plan: 1. Visit and donate Wild Tribe Heroes books. 2. Carry out beach cleans and litter picks. 3. Sponsor Environmental poster competition. 4. Promote Lions Young Leaders in Service.

Encouraging children to take an active part in looking after where they live is at the heart of a school environmental project developed by Budleigh Salterton Lions. Other aims include preventing harmful litter going into local rivers and the sea, highlighting damage to wildlife of plastics, and raising the profile of Lions while serving the local community.

5. PR & marketing during and after project.

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MORE

Reproduced with kind permission of Mike Carrington

Firework fiesta marks 50 years

Fleet Lions organised an extra special fireworks fiesta as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations. All 6,500 tickets were sold in advance using the online ‘TicketByte’ system on the club’s website. Promotion included social media, support from BBC Surrey Radio, and handing out flyers in the local shopping centre. The event message was ‘bring your friends and have your fireworks party with us’. The club served its infamous Glühwein (mulled wine), with Odiham scouts helping Lions to serve burgers and hotdogs, as well as offering their campfire sweet treats. The scouts cleared the field of rubbish the next day and were thanked with a donation. Other organisations were invited to take part by serving additional food and drink. Hart District Council and Fleet Town Football Club kindly assisted with parking provision.

Torchlight parade St Sebastian Band led a torchlight procession from Wokingham town centre to Cantley Field where 10,000 people were treated to a spectacular firework display set to music. As well as fairground rides, outlets offered a selection of food and non-alcoholic drinks. The charity event is run by Wokingham Lions Club with Wokingham Rotary Club, Easthampstead Rotary Club, and Windsor Forest Unicorn Club. Tickets were sold online through Participant booking system. Wokingham Lions receive a quarter of the estimated £35,000 raised. Main beneficiaries will be First Days Children’s Charity, Wokingham in Need, Daisy’s Dream, Sue Ryder, and Life Education Wessex & Thames Valley. Watch a video of the event at: https://youtu.be/3A7YMD7wL-A

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Drone image courtesy of https://wokinghamaerialphotography.co.uk/

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

#ICYMI IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

The Lions Young Ambassador award final in February will mark 50 years of the project that recognises young people volunteering in their local communities. Lions are invited to attend the event taking place over the weekend of 16-18 February at The Village Hotel in Dudley. Details can be found at: https://lionsclubs.co/MemberArea/ home/lions-young-ambassadors-andshipshape-award/

HRH Princess Royal expressed her gratitude to Tickhill & District Lions and Thorne Rural Lions for donating £40,000 towards the new Serenity Suite, a dedicated bereavement space for families grieving the loss of a child during pregnancy. Since the report in last issue of LION magazine, the Serenity appeal has exceeded £160,000 raised in just 12 months within the local community. Touring the facilities, the Princess Royal met key donors and unveiled a commemorative plaque. The visit to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Doncaster Royal Infirmary was undertaken in the Princess Royal’s capacity as patron of the Royal College of Midwives.

Activity Alliance and Lions Clubs British Isles have renewed their partnership agreement. For more than 20 years, Lions have supported Activity Alliance regional games and National Junior Athletics Championships, where more than 140 young disabled athletes compete each year.

Lisa the guide dog has retired after starring on the front cover of the Summer LION magazine. We thank Lisa for her service working with one of our champions of local community volunteering, Leonie Seymour-Milsom, a member of Blaby & District Lions. Enjoy your rest and play, Lisa! www.lionsclubs.co

LION

COMMUNITY STORIES

Community Stories The short reports shared over the following pages are a small example of the many ways that Lions across the British Isles support their local communities. Farnborough Lions re-gifted sacks of soft toys to Frimley Park Hospital with a variety of additional toys and games distributed through The Lions Community Store. The generous donation was made by Hartwood Films from a production located at new film studios on the edge of Farnborough airport. It was pleased to re-purpose the toys within the local area. The Lions Community Store is run by clubs in North East Hampshire and donates hundreds of food parcels at Christmas to those in danger of going hungry, with each family parcel containing presents for children.

Romsey and Waterside Lions donated £500 to fund Christmas presents for young carers (aged between 8 and 21) living in the town and Southern Test Valley area.

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Feed a Child Torbay has received £500 from Paignton Lions to support the group’s work addressing ‘holiday hunger’ among children who receive free school meals. The initiative supplies non-perishable meal kits for primary schools and early years providers to distribute to families requiring extra help. To learn more, see: https://www.feedachildtorbay.org.uk/

COMMUNITY STORIES

From air to water Joyce Moorhouse a member of Huddersfield Lions took on a skydiving challenge for her 80th birthday and raised over £2,000 for the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice. “I spoke before thinking when a friend said they’d done a bungee jump, replying that I’d rather jump out of a plane!” Photos: Black Knights Parachute Centre

The World Dwarf Games (WDG) are the largest international sporting event held exclusively for athletes with dwarfism. Over 500 athletes from in excess of 20 countries competed in the 8th WDG held at the Deutsche Sport Hochschule in Cologne, Germany. Boroughbridge 98 Lions sponsors Sid Roskilly, who returned from the games with a haul of medals.

For its 26th annual Swimathon event Windsor Lions moved to a new venue, St Georges School Ascot. Local charities and groups are invited to swim in relay for 55 minutes to raise money for their choice of cause. This year 39 teams took part raising over £9,000. This takes the total funds raised by the event to over £250,000. Bookings are open for next year’s Swimathon to be held on 27 October.

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

COMMUNITY STORIES

Pictorial signage Kendal and District Lions created a set of pictorial window signs that illustrate what a retail business offers. Available free of charge to local shops, the signs will help people with dementia, learning difficulties, or who struggle when reading English. For further details email: elizabeth.axten@gmail.com

Spalding Lions raised £1,500 for the ‘Hope for Tomorrow’ mobile cancer units that provide treatment across Lincolnshire. Staffed by NHS nursing teams, the units (funded by donations) treat over 20 patients a day in a relaxed, friendly environment. They are driven to community hospitals and other local sites such as supermarket carparks.

Sustainability and biodiversity Sudbury and Heston Lions clubs re-purposed a double decker bus as a fantastic playground library for Featherstone Junior School pupils. Anglesey Central Lions planted Spring bulbs in planters the club installed earlier this year at St David’s Hospice in Holyhead. Corby and District Lions celebrated the club’s 50th year by planting 50 trees at East Carlton Park. Many volunteers helped to plant assorted whips, with a commemorative plaque unveiled by Deputy Lord Lieutenant Mary Young MBE. Sandown and Shanklin Lions donated work stations and classroom tables to the Wight biodiversity project at Carisbrooke Priory. These will help students who are conducting various investigations into the natural world, with an emphasis on UK biodiversity.

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

COMMUNITY STORIES

Highly entertaining Llandudno Lions hosted over 150 Honda Goldwing motorbikes in the town. Thousands of people enjoyed the parades, music and fun. Prizes were presented with a collection and raffle raising over £4,000 for Blood Bikes and the Air Ambulance. The giant wheel on the pier displayed the Lions emblem throughout the night.

Humberston North Sea Lions run an ‘It’s a Knockout’ event in Cleethorpes. This year 25 teams took part - one from the twin Lions club, Duisburg in Germany. This was the 11th event since 2007 and has raised over £200,000 in total for local charities. This year the main beneficiary, Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, received over £12,000.

Support for Ukraine Ringwood and Fordingbridge Lions met with volunteers at New Forest for Ukraine, based in Lymington. As well as gaining a better understanding of the operation, the Lions dropped off much needed donations and helped pack boxes of toys, clothes, and other supplies that are sent to Ukraine each month. St Austell Lions collected warm clothing for adults and children, nappies, sanitary products, sleeping bags, small tents, and walking aids, for delivery to Callington Lions for onward transport to Ukraine. Wetherby and Knaresborough Lions helped respond to a request from the mayor of Volodymyr for a fire engine equipped with a telescopic ladder to rescue residents of Soviet-era tower blocks in the event of a rocket attack. Retired lorry driver, Bob Frendt, conveyed the message and a combined force of fundraisers secured £20,000 for ‘Joyce’ the fire engine to be transported to Ukraine.

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TIME TO REFLECT

This year, Lions clubs were able to undertake a good variety of events, projects, and service activities.

time to reflect

Across the British Isles in 2023, we have welcomed several hundred new members. New clubs have been chartered, while others celebrated milestone anniversaries. Some have closed reluctantly as their members age and club size shrinks. NCVO’s research programme, Time Well Spent 2023, indicates time pressures are affecting volunteer participation. Nevertheless, 92% of those surveyed have a positive experience of volunteering. Benefits include: enjoyment, making a difference, sense of personal achievement, meeting new people including from different backgrounds

and cultures, broadening life experience, improved mental health, gaining confidence, skills and experience, feeling less isolated, and improving physical health and employment prospects. Data in the Charities Aid Foundation 2023 report shows a rise in giving, with 84% of people participating in charitable and civic-minded activities. Support for specific causes or fund-raising activities is noted with £20 being the typical donation. The top ten causes include overseas aid and disaster relief, children and young people, homelessness, medical research, hospitals and hospices, food banks, the environment and elderly people.

Access all audio assets at: https://lionsclubs.co/Public/lion-podcast/

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Images: C D-X on Unsplash

In 2023, Lions Clubs British Isles enhanced its audio offerings to include: • Ten additional podcast episodes - making 23 in total, • A new team of engaging readers for the ‘talking’ versions of LION magazine, and • Publication of a 32 minute Lions Get Involved audio booklet about the value of community volunteering.

Image: svstudioart on Freepik

Local communities remain generous in their support, despite ongoing challenges from the costof-living crisis and greater demand for help.

2023

TIME TO REFLECT

What works

time to review

Lions clubs tend to end the calendar year with a flurry of activity. With Autumn events, organising Santa sleighs, and ensuring those in need are supported in the Winter months, it may not seem important to review what’s worked in 2023. But this will be of great help for the year ahead.

Rather than looking at challenges facing clubs, a positive view builds on what we do well.

A review of 2023 is a chance to value fellow Lions and those who help the club make a positive difference.

This is called appreciative inquiry and involves recognising strengths and opportunities. It pays attention to what works well, what is good and valuable, and what assets can be developed.

Use the 4D model in your club review:

Appreciation can be given within a Lions club and the local community in which it operates. Inquiry is a way to explore and discover what possibilities could be realised in future.

Dream: What might be possible in the year ahead? What could the club accomplish? What ideas would be good to action?

Talk about what you appreciate about being a Lion, and what good your club does in the local community.

Discovery: What is the best of what has happened in 2023? What is working well? What attracted members to join the club? What stories reveal their enjoyment?

Design: What will this shared vision need in order to be achieved? Deliver: What specific steps are members committed to taking?

The three editions of the LION magazine (British Isles) produced in 2023 contained photographs and stories from over 300 clubs. Each issue included feature articles, community stories, ICYMI updates, and a Lion’s Tale with a theme: • Spring: Care and creativity, • Summer: Local communities matter, and • Autumn/Winter: Together we achieve more. Read online or download latest LION magazine issues at: www.issuu.com/lionsclubsbritishisles

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

WELCOME 2024

Every penny counts Lions Clubs in the British Isles typically raise over £9 million each year to help good causes and those in need.

#LionsStepForward #JoinUs

Every minute matters Lions members volunteer for one hour a week on average to support their local communities.

www.lionsclubs.co #LionsGetInvolved

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

WELCOME 2024

welcome 2024

Lions make a real difference in local communities across the British Isles. Globally, Lions have served others – proudly and with kindness – since 1917. We welcome 2024 with gratitude for every Lion and appreciation of everyone who supports Lions.

In 2024, Lions will undertake more activities, serve more causes, and provide more welfare support in response to real time needs. Lions ensure every penny raised counts and every minute volunteered matters. Together – and with many others in our local communities – we achieve more.

Thank you. Lions clubs can order copies of new Every Penny Counts cards and Thank you notelets by emailing: mandy@lionsclubs.co.uk

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

LION GUIDE TO CASHLESS PAYMENTS

Over half of payments in the UK are made by debit or credit cards. Nine out of ten people make contactless payments at least once a month. Their average value in 2022 was £15.10. Cash accounts for 14% of payments, down from 54% a decade ago. Remote banking is used by 95% of those aged 25-34 and 80% of people aged 65 or over. Payments using mobile devices and digital wallets are increasing in popularity. By 2032, cash is anticipated to account for 8% of payments. [Data: UK Finance] CHECKLIST FOR CASH FREE EVENTS AND FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES Charity and community banking Review charity and community accounts. Compare monthly costs, ease of access, interest rates, deposit limits, withdrawal terms, service charges, and routine transaction fees. See: https:// moneyzine.com/uk/banking/best-charity-bankaccount-uk/ Charges for depositing cash Clarify limits on depositing cash at bank branches or Post Offices. To exchange ‘old’ UK coins see: https://britanniacoincompany.com/sell-your-coins/ and for foreign coins and notes, see: https://get. cash4coins.co.uk/c4c-charity-landingpage/ Access to online and mobile accounts Adopt best practices for online access, including password safeguards, data backups, mobile device security, malware protection, and phishing attacks. See: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/smallbusiness-guide

Digital wallets People store passwords and payment details in phone apps to pay on card readers. They can also save tickets, loyalty cards, coupons, and identity details. See: https://www.investopedia. com/terms/d/digital-wallet.asp Online donation and fundraising Accept donations via text (Donr, InstaGiv, Donate) or fundraise online (Just Giving, CAF Donate, and Givey). See: https://www.ten4design.co.uk/ insights/the-best-online-donation-andfundraising-platforms-for-charities-in2022#total-giving Social giving and websites promotion Use social media pages, tools, stickers, buttons. See: https://www.goodunited.io/blog/socialgiving. Add widgets and plugins on websites. See: https://justgiving-charitysupport.zendesk. com/hc/en-us/articles/14478525178129-Whatwidgets-can-you-add-to-your-website

Digital transaction fees Calculate the costs of using any digital service or tool. Small amounts soon add up. There may be set up costs, monthly charges, flat fees, and a percentage per transaction. Watch for addon costs, for instance, when a service provider processes card payments.

Event management platforms Improve management of events with online systems. They help with promotion, bookings, ticketing, payment, communication. Eventbrite is best known, see also: https://www.jotform.com/ blog/eventbrite-alternative/

Processing time Know how long it takes for money to be credited to a bank account. Debit card transactions may be instant or with 1-2 working days, payments through apps and online intermediaries may be much longer. Cheque deposits are faster when using a mobile banking app.

QR codes Create and display QR codes to open links to online sites or send email/text from a mobile device. For free, safe options to create QR codes see: https://www.digitaljournal. com/business/15-best-free-safe-qr-codegenerators-you-should-use/article

Card readers Use card readers as a commitment-free option with no monthly fees and a fixed percentage rate per donation. The most popular are from SumUp, Square or Zettle. See: https://www. mobiletransaction.org/card-machine-for-charity/

Claim Gift Aid online Recognized charities can reclaim Gift Aid online: https://www.gov.uk/claim-gift-aid-online Remind taxpayers to boost their donations through Gift Aid: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/ family/gift-aid

If you have questions or would like support with cashless payments or cash free events and fundraising, please email: mandy@lionsclubs.co.uk

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Qantas Premium Economy

Hop onboard with the people who know Australia best Fly to Melbourne with Qantas when booking your exclusive package with Lions Travel Club.

TAILORMADE HOLIDAYS | FLIGHTS | HOTELS | CRUISES

LCICon 2024 Melbourne 21-25 June

BOOK ONLINE OR CONTACT OUR DEDICATED TEAM

ª § §

¡ ¢ ¢ ¡ £ ¤ ¥

¦ § § § ¨ ¢ §

BOOK ONLINE OR CONTACT OUR DEDICATED TEAM

2023-2024 International President Dr. Patti Hill

Changing the World There’s an old saying – It’s the journey, not the destination. Changing the world is a journey. There’s no middle and no end. There is, however, a beginning. With every small act of service, you contribute one step towards change. It’s up to each of us to simply begin. Like rain filling a bucket, we can change the world one drop at a time. In fact, we are all changing the world with every decision we make. Truly meaningful changes will occur when we are intentional about the kind of changes we want to make. When we strive to make positive changes—in our lives and in the lives of others—we put good into the world. Lions have been doing our part to change the world for more than 100 years. In every project we do, with every donation we make, we contribute to positive change in our communities. As we fill our own buckets, our communities rise with us. We are all connected. When we see that connection, boundaries and barriers disappear. We realise that while global challenges may seem daunting, there is always a place where we can begin. The place is here. The time is now. Our world is a beautiful place. Let the rain fall. Drop by drop, fill your bucket. Help those around you fill theirs. Every day, in big ways and in small, let’s serve to make our world an even better place for all.

BE THE CHANGE

Change Begins One Step at a Time We change the world one life, one relationship, one community at a time. Here are some great ways to get started. Create a greener, cleaner environment. Protecting and improving our environment is a great way to engage with our communities. By helping to protect and restore our natural resources, we can literally change the world. Let’s act boldly, and let’s act now. Share your story with the world. Developing great marketing skills can help you tell the world who you are and what you do. Social media and local media, and online and offline marketing give you new ways to tell your stories. Shine a light on your club and invite your community to be a part of the change as Lions and Leos. Reach your service potential. People want to be a part of something that matters. So set service goals that push your capacity and create opportunities for even more impact with new members. Find ways to ensure your club is inclusive and welcoming to all. Empower even greater good. Our foundation empowers us to do so much more than we can do alone. LCIF enables us to think big and undertake projects that can truly change the world. So, support LCIF, and let LCIF support you.

LCIF

Lions Respond to “Disaster of Century” Lions International author: Andrea Small

“Turkey is going through the most difficult days in its history,” says Past Council Chairperson Danyal Kubin, the disaster relief committee chairperson for MD 118 who is mobilising Lions’ disaster relief efforts following the February 2023 earthquake and aftershocks that struck Turkey and Syria.

Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) grant funds, they are bringing a small bit of comfort to survivors of these devastating earthquakes.

Kubin, a structural engineer and seismic expert, says this series of earthquakes is the largest seen in the region in more than a century and were felt for more than 350,000 square kilometers (21,748 miles). Additionally, the earthquakes were very close to the surface, making the destruction even greater.

Immediately after the first earthquake struck, LCIF awarded a US$200,000 Major Catastrophe Grant to the Lions in Turkey. Lions used these funds to develop the Adiyaman Lions Container Village. The 60 containers purchased with the grant are furnished and fitted with a kitchen and bathroom to provide temporary housing for displaced people while they await reconstruction in their communities.

The disaster killed more than 50,000 people, injured more than 120,000, and left millions of people displaced. Homes crumbled to the ground, hundreds of other buildings collapsed, and communities were changed forever. When a humanitarian disaster of this magnitude strikes, Lions are among the first to respond. Empowered by Lions 34

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

The first priority? Providing safety and shelter to people who currently have no place to call home.

Lions in Sweden also used an LCIF Matching Grant awarded in May 2022 to develop the Antakya Lions Tent Village. Within the village are 320 tents to temporarily house 1,050 people, more than 340 of them children. Local Lion and Leo volunteers regularly interact with

LCIF

the children, providing them with learning and socialisation opportunities. Finally, through LCIF’s partnership with the MD 111 German Lions Foundation, funds are addressing the immediate survival, safety and short-term housing needs of victims of the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria.

These are just a few of the projects that are underway. Additional grants will be awarded as needs continue to grow. “The response and support from Lions worldwide is inspiring and illustrates Lions’ unwavering humanitarian spirit during this unfathomable disaster. Lions live and serve in the communities most impacted, and we will be there to support the people there as long as they need us,” says 2022-2023 LCIF Chairperson Douglas X. Alexander. “LCIF grant funding

helps us make an even bigger difference for people who’ve experienced so much loss during this unimaginable disaster.” LCIF grants are only possible with support from Lions across the globe who immediately united to support those impacted by the earthquakes. In the weeks following the disaster, many Lion leaders, clubs and districts launched fundraising events in person and online to benefit LCIF’s Disaster Relief fund. Lions worldwide also continue to make individual donations to support the cause. These efforts will help ensure that Lions can provide help and hope in the region for as long as it is needed. “We are talking about a disaster on a scale that no country in the world can be prepared for on its own,” Kubin says. “That’s why we need the support of the international community more than ever. Together we are always stronger.” To learn more about how Lions International is responding to this disaster and how Lions are an integral part of earthquake relief, visit lionsclubs.org/earthquakerelief.

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

LCIF

Partnerships with Purpose Lions International author: Leia Williams

“When you remove a cataract, people who have not seen their children in years, suddenly see them. It is amazing to witness,” Past District Governor Sedrace Rwekikiya shared, while standing under the thick shade of the tree canopy just outside St. Francis Nsambya Hospital in Kampala, Uganda. As she continued to speak about the incredible impact Lions have made in Uganda toward reducing preventable blindness, in the distance, the latest vision project was taking shape. A renovated and expanded two-story vision clinic surrounded by scaffolding could be seen past the trees. This 5,500 square foot facility, expected to be completed in 2024, should provide enough space and equipment for medical staff to increase outpatient consultations from 2,800 to 8,100 per year. Newly trained staff will also increase the diagnosis and treatment capacity by thousands of individuals. “I am excited about the new clinic being constructed,” Dr. Lucy Namakula expressed with a smile. “This will extend our services to the community and save our patients money.” Earlier in the day, she had to refer a family to another hospital because their baby had severely misaligned eyes and the current vision clinic could not manage his treatment. 36

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

This referral to a larger facility would require travel for the family, which would increase their costs. “It is important to support the clinic because sight is a gift. This clinic will save families money and the new equipment will improve our patient care, so we are grateful to Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) and Latter-day Saint Charities for supporting us.” Together, these two organisations have partnered to give over US$420,000 to expand comprehensive eye care services in the Kampala metropolitan area. When the clinic is completed, it is expected to offer 20,250 student eye exams each year, in addition to exponentially increasing the current clinic’s capacity for cataract surgeries, diabetic retinopathy screenings and more. For years, Kampala has had few comprehensive eye care facilities and they were not meeting the full needs of the community. Knowing this, Dr. Geoffrey Erem and fellow Lions of District 411-B decided they could bridge the gap by applying for a SightFirst grant with LCIF to expand and improve their current vision clinic. “Lions come together to solve community needs,” Dr. Erem noted. “If we pool resources, we make a larger difference.”

LCIF

Efforts like this one prove Dr. Erem’s point. The mission-oriented partnership with Latterday Saint Charities will enhance LCIF’s ability to invest in vision care in expansive ways, support sustainable Lion-led projects, and reach thousands of people in Kampala. Additionally, for the medical professionals who will be empowered to serve a greater number of patients more effectively, this partnership will support their professional fulfillment, which is immeasurable yet priceless.

darkness and now there is light.” When the doors to the newly expanded St. Francis Nsambya Hospital Eye Clinic open next year, light will flood each room and patients will leave with the ability to see it, some for the first time.

“I love to help patients see,” Dr. Namakula remarked. “It is like a bit of magic. Just imagine that you have been living in

Visit lionsclubs.org/CSR to learn more about LCIF partnerships and the impact they have around the world.

LCIF and Latter-day Saint Charities have partnered since 2018 to fight the major causes of preventable and reversible blindness for underserved populations in Africa, South America and the Middle East.

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

CONTACT DETAILS

Official publication of Lions International by authority of the board of directors: Executive officers 2023-2024 President Dr. Patti Hill, Canada; Immediate Past President Brian E. Sheehan, United States; First Vice President Fabrício Oliveira, Brazil; Second VicevPresident A.P. Singh, India; Third Vice President Mark S. Lyon, United States.

THE LION MAGAZINE [British Isles Edition] MD105 Management committee 2023/24 Rick Hough [Chair] Mandy Broadbent [Vice Chair] Brian Langton [Committee Member] MD105 PR/Communications Co-ordinator Heather Yaxley Advertising Contact email: pr@lionsclubs.co

Directors n

Second year directors

Ben Apeland, USA; Jitendra Kumar Singh Chauhan, India; Barbara Grewe, Germany; Jeff Changwei Huang, China; Timothy Irvine, Australia; Ronald Eugene Keller, USA; Gye Oh Lee, Republic of Korea; Robert K.Y. Lee, USA; Ramakrishnan Mathanagopal, India; Manoel Messias Mello, Brazil; Ahmed Salem Mostafa, Egypt; James “Jay” Coleman Moughon, USA; Mahesh Pasqual, Republic of Sri Lanka; Samir Abou Samra, Lebanon; Koji Tsurushima, Japan; Pirkko Vihavainen, Finland; Jürg Vogt, Switzerland; Lee Vrieze, USA. n

First year directors

Balkrishna Burlakoti, Nepal; Feng-Chi Chen, China Taiwan; Marie T. Cunning, USA; Marcel Daniëls, Belgium; Luis Jesus Castillo Gamboa, Panamá; Babu Rao Ghattamaneni, India; Masashi Hamano, Japan; Edwin Guy Hollander, USA; Sung-Gil Jung, Republic of Korea; Halldor Kristjansson, Iceland; Danyal Kubin, Türkiye; John Allen Lawrence, USA; Steven Middlemiss, USA; Hans J. Neidhardt, USA; Joanne Ogden, Canada; Anthony Paradiso, USA; Katsuki Shirosaka, Japan.

Digital editions and app downloads of issues of LION Magazine can be found at: https://lionsclubs.org/en/footer/lion-magazine

Submission guidelines for the next edition Feature ideas, articles and photographs proposed for future issues should be of interest to the majority of readers, who include Lions and members of the public. Please provide information about the story and who is involved, as well as relevant details such as location and dates. Include a contact name and phone number. Remember that any photographs need to be eye-catching and of a high standard. Confirm you have permission for these to be published. Thank you. Editorial contact: email: lion.editorial@lionsclubs.co

The LION Magazine [British Isles] © Lions Clubs International: MD105 British Isles. All rights reserved. Reproduction wholly or in part is prohibited without written permission. Published by MD105 British Isles on behalf of Lions International, 300 22nd Street, Oak Brook, Illinois 60570, USA. The LION Magazine production: Mark Oliver Design, Acorn Web Offset and Central Mailing Services. The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers or Lions International. All information is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, and may be subject to change. The inclusion of adverts in this magazine does not constitute the publishers’ endorsement of the products and services concerned.

Lions Clubs International MD105 [British Isles Edition]

We Serve MISSION STATEMENT OF LIONS INTERNATIONAL: To empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs. Patron of the Lions Clubs of the British Isles Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Post:

257 Alcester Road South, Kings Heath Birmingham B14 6DT

Email:

enquiries@lionsclubs.co

Phone:

0121 441 4544

Website:

www.lionsclubs.co

Facebook:

Lionsgetinvolved

Twitter:

LionsClubsBI

Instagram:

lionsclubsbritishisles

LinkedIn:

LionsClubsBritishIsles

LIONS STEP FORWARD

Lions Step Forward resources Following successfulForward launch of the Stepresources Forward community report, new LionstheStep Following the successful launch of the Step Forward community report, marketing resources have been published.

this is now available as an audio booklet, to listen Following the successful launch of theclick Stephere Forward community report, new https://lionsclubs.co/Public/lionsstepforward/ Together eye-catching materials help Lions to share their passion for marketingthese resources have been published.

local community volunteering, talk about how their club mak Together these eye-catching materials help Lions to share their passion for

Together these eye-catching materials and images available on and encourage people to #JoinUs. local community volunteering, talk about how theirhelp clubLions mak to https://lionsclubs.co/MemberArea/home/social-media/ and encourage people to community #JoinUs. volunteering, talk about how share their passion for local Booklets their club makes a difference and encourage people to #JoinUs. Zest for life | The positive energy of young volunteers

Booklets

Welfare is an old idea.

Step forward

Zest for life | The positive energy of young volunteers

of people that care about what‘WE’ make, instead of what ‘I’ make. – Hosai Matsubayashi

Lions serve local communities Did you know that networked communications within and between localhome volunteers and improvearound community action? at the world. Local community volunteering – for instance with Lions clubs – spreads news andknow information quickly using the planet power of of mouth. Online Did you that everyone on the is word no more than an and traditional are used to mobilise people take action. average of sixchannels social connections away from eachtoother?

Welfare is an old idea. To hope for a good turn in life — to do well and journey well.

A good turn | The vital role of welfare support

Welfare is an old idea.

Community-based – such as members clubsare – serve Did you know thatvolunteers within any community 20%ofofLions people great as glue between individuals, groups and organisations. They boost at social getting things done? community cohesion, bond people together and bridge differences. Volunteers are ordinary people but some – like Lions – contribute to the achievement of that extraordinary things. Their super talents areand simple: Did you know networked communications within between

Lions serve local communities at home and around the world.

Shokunin are the kind of people that care about what‘WE’ make, instead of what ‘I’ make. – Hosai Matsubayashi

To hope for a good turn in life — to do well and journey well.

•local Practical skills, improve local knowledge, common sense, familiarity with volunteers community action? Diddifferent you know that everyone the planet is no more than an situations, sense of–on humour, or specialist expertise. Local community volunteering for instance with Lions clubs – spreads average of six social connections away from each other? •news Community contacts, ability to ﬁnd information, ormouth. memory of the and information quickly using theout power of word of Online Community-based volunteers – such as members of Lions clubs – serve stories and traditions thatused make community special. and traditional channels are toamobilise people to take action. as glue individuals, groups andeasily, organisations. They • social Able to putbetween people together, make friends call on the rightboost community cohesion, bond people together and bridge differences. Didperson you know that within any community 20% of people are great to help out, skilled at negotiating or solving problems.

at getting things done? Did you know that networked communications within and between

Volunteers are ordinary people but some – like Lions – contribute to the local volunteers improve community action? achievement extraordinary things. Their super talents areIsles simple: | Lions Clubs International British StepofForward Local community volunteering – for instance with Lions clubs – spreads • Practical skills, local knowledge, common sense, familiarity with news and information quickly using the power of word of mouth. Online different situations, sense of humour, or specialist expertise. and traditional channels are used to mobilise people to take action. • Community contacts, ability to ﬁnd out information, or memory of the and traditions thatany make a community special. Didstories you know that within community 20% of people are great •at getting Able to put people together, make friends easily, call on the right things done? person to out, skilled negotiating or solving problems. to the Volunteers arehelp ordinary peopleatbut some – like Lions – contribute achievement of extraordinary things. Their super talents are simple:

Step Forward | Lions Clubs International British Isles

• Practical skills, local knowledge, common sense, familiarity with Step Forward | Lions Clubs International British Isles different situations, sense of humour, or specialist expertise. • Community contacts, ability to ﬁnd out information, or memory of the stories and traditions that make a community special. • Able to put people together, make friends easily, call on the right person to help out, skilled at negotiating or solving problems.

Step Forward | Lions Clubs International British Isles

Photo by Nathan Lemon on Unsplash Photo by Nathan Lemon on Unsplash Photo by Nathan Lemon on Unsplash

Shokunin are the kind of people that care about what‘WE’ make, instead of what ‘I’ make. – Hosaifrom Matsubayashi Wisdom the past.

by Lions Clubs International British Isles

A good turn | The vital role of welfare support

Did you know that everyone on the planet is no more than an average of six social connections away from each other?

Labour of Love | Quiet work of helping others

Change the world

A report on the value of local community volunteering

To hope for a good turn in life — to do well and journey well.

Community-based volunteers – such as members of Lions clubs – serve as social glue between individuals, groups and organisations. They boost community cohesion, bond people together and bridge differences.

Wisdom from the past.

by Lions Clubs InternationalZest for life | The positive energy of young volunteers British Isles

Step forward

Lions serve local communities at home and around the world.

Labour of Love | Quietare work ofthe helpingkind others Shokunin

Change the world

A report on the value of local community volunteering

A good turn | The vital role of welfare support

Wisdom from the past.

Photo by Austin Ramsey on Photo Unsplash by Austin Ramsey Photo on by Unsplash Austin Ramsey on Unsplash

Booklets

Labour of Love | Quiet work of helping others

Change the world

Step Forward | Lions Clubs International British Isles

A4 Posters

friendship and teamwork. Join us to raise funds innovation and creativity and help others with to achieve positive #JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved integrity, enthusiasm, results through #LionsStepForward innovation and teamwork. creativity friendship and https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/ to achieve positive #JoinUs results through #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward friendship and teamwork. https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/ #JoinUs

they occur. With more volunteers Lions step forward to in morelocal places than any tackle community #JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved other service organisation, challenges #LionsStepForward wherever Lions step forward to they occur. https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/ tackle local community #JoinUs challenges wherever #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward they occur. https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/ #JoinUs

#LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/

The positive

Step forward Step forward #JoinUs

#LionsGetInvolved Volunteering #LionsStepForward makes a real https://lionsclubs.co/ difference in local Public/volunteer/ communities. #JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/

ORDER:

Public/volunteer/

#JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

trusted to meet the By being needs open to evolving of those change, continue requiringLions support in to be respected and local communities. trusted to meet the evolving needs of those #JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved requiring support in #LionsStepForward local communities. https://lionsclubs.co/ #JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/

#JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

The positive energy of young

https://lionsclubs.co/ volunteers Public/volunteer/

changes the world.

#JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/

Step forward

Local community projects create a chain of kindness.

Lions join together to improve their local communities.

#JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

https://lionsclubs.co/ projects create a Public/volunteer/

https://lionsclubs.co/ to improve their Public/volunteer/

#JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/

Step forward

Local community

chain of kindness.

Step forward

Lions join together local communities.

Every Members of Lions Clubs penny step forward by volunteering counts their time to support local communities and help good Members of Lions Clubs causes. Collectively, Lions Clubs step by volunteering in theforward British Isles typically raise their £9 time to support localto help over million each year communities help good those in needand in local causes. Collectively, Lions Clubs communities at home in the British Isles typically raise and overseas. over £9 million each year to help those in need in local #JoinUs communities at https://lionsclubs.co/ home #LionsGetInvolved Public/volunteer/ and overseas. #LionsStepForward #JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/

Every penny

counts Members of Lions Clubs step forward by volunteering their time to support local communities and help good causes. Collectively, Lions Clubs in the British Isles typically raiseEvery over £9 million each year to help penny those in need in local communities counts Members of Lions Clubs at home and overseas. step forward by volunteering

Photo by Kevin Susanto on Unsplash

Volunteering makes a real

energy of young in local volunteers Postcardsdifference communities. changes the world.

FREE:

Public/volunteer/

five common causes: Alongsidevision, a focus on diabetes, local community service, hunger, environment Lions get involved with and childhood cancer. five common causes: diabetes, vision, #JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved hunger, environment #LionsStepForward and childhood cancer. https://lionsclubs.co/

Every penny counts

#JoinUs communities andhttps://lionsclubs.co/ help good #LionsGetInvolved causes. Collectively, Public/volunteer/ Lions Clubs #LionsStepForward

Photo by Kevin Susanto on Unsplash

Step forward Step forward

NEW:

Living our promise By being open to Living change, Lions continue our promise to be respected and

https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/

Postcards Postcards

Leaflet

Kindness in action Alongside a focus on Kindness local community service, in Lionsaction get involved with

Photo by Kevin Susanto on Unsplash

with others Join us to raise funds Connect and help others with with integrity, others enthusiasm, innovation and creativity Connect Join us to raise funds to achieve positive and help others with with others results through integrity, enthusiasm,

Global force for good With more volunteers Global in more places than any force for good other service organisation, Lions step forward to Global With more tackle localvolunteers community in more places than any force for good challenges wherever other service organisation,

Photo by Kevin Susanto on Unsplash

Connect Posters

#JoinUs #LionsGetInvolved #LionsStepForward

their time to support local

in the British Isles typically raise over £9 million each year to help those in need in local communities at home and overseas.

https://lionsclubs.co/ Public/volunteer/

posters (in various sizes), are available to purchase.

A box of 50 copies of Step Forward reports can be requested, with only the cost of postage to pay (one box per club allocation, while stocks last). Please get in touch with Lions National Headquarters on 0121 441 4544.

YOUTH PROJECT: ROAR 2023 WINNERS

IMAGINE. INCLUDE. INVENT. INSPIRE.

Ysgol Morfa Rhianedd

CONGRATULATIONS 2023 WINNERS

Seeds for your Weeds app helps with gardening and looking after plants Llandudno Lions [105CN]

Cherrywood Primary School

Cobholm Primary Academy

Cherry on Top app to choose icecream flavour for delivery

Clothatron 6000 makes clothes from waste materials

Farnborough Lions [105SC]

Great Yarmouth Lions [105CE]

Glebe Primary School

Prince of Wales School

Aqua-Guard backpack with built-in buoyancy aid

Mark Robot friendly companion for all ages, reacts to commands, talks and cheers anyone up

Dorchester & District Lions [105SW]

Harrow & Pinner Lions [105A]

Fun learning for primary schools

Seaford Primary School

Children changing the world

Newhaven, Peacehaven & Seaford Lions [105SE]

See: https://www.lions-roar.com/ LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Seed Planter bike spreads and waters seeds Hornsea District Lions [105N]

Pembroke Primary School

Solar Saver backpack powers devices by walking Chepstow & Caldicot Lions [105CW]

Solar Shade with storage, and power to help people without electricity

Digital programme. Funded by local Lions clubs. Run by 8billionideas (award-winning education company). In line with national curriculum & PSHE.

Hornsea Community Primary School

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik

NEW MEMBERS

Seasons as a Lion As time passes—winter, spring, summer, autumn—follow a regular pattern. Winter solstice, in the Northern Hemisphere, brings the least daylight, the longest night. Six months later, Summer solstice is full of light. The equinox in Spring or Autumn, balances daylight and darkness. Time passes. Earth orbits the sun, rotates around its axis, an invisible line—pole to pole. A pattern repeating. Yet our experience is not universal. A four-season year is found only in the mid-latitudes. Places neither near the poles nor near the Equator. Go north now in Winter for long cold nights. Go south for long hot days. In-between seasons are dry or wet, where daylight and darkness are equal, year round. Look and find members of Lions Clubs International in all climates, all timezones. Working in the dark and the light. Sharing a common purpose to improve the lives of all people. In this LION magazine, we witness this mission in action. Service in local communities. The following pages welcome new members, beginning their journey with fresh ideas. We end with gratitude and wish farewell to those who volunteered their time with pride and have passed to higher service. Time moves on. Seasons as a Lion—planning, preparing, helping others through friendship. Another year of service ahead to invite others to join us and as Lions work together to achieve more in all our local communities. Whatever 2024 brings, Lions will be wherever there is a need.

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome new Lions members All members of Lions Clubs of the British Isles share a commitment to serve their local communities. Over the following pages we welcome 224 new members joining 136 Lions clubs serving their local communities.

#JoinUs

#LionsGetInvolved

Alnwick Lions Club Deborah Burton Alton Lions Club Julie Sibley Bedford Lions Club Gurnam Singh Harpreet Singh Bedworth Lions Club Karen Hughes

Bracknell Lions Club George Funani Don Rajapakse Bridport Lions Club Emma Cormack Joanna Dorman Jaycob James Amanda Pearson Brigg District Lions Club Nicola Pierce

Bexhill On Sea Lions Club Dawn Alba Kate Griffiths Jamal Mahavi

Bridgnorth Lions Club Stuart Allen Westley Bone

Biggleswade-Sandy Lions Club Alison Jessup

Bridlington Lions Club Andrea Dubrinsky

Billericay Lions Club Lachlan Munn

Bristol Brunel Lions Club Carolyn Thompson

Bletchley Milton Keynes Lions Club Naznin Dhanji

Bromyard Lions Club Shannon Hinsley

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

#StepForward

#OpentoChange

Budleigh Salterton Lions Club Anthony Bott Sue Glover Jo Jamieson Burgess Hill District Lions Club Claire Stacey Bury Lions Club Alison Clarkson Caistor and District Lions Club Edward Parrott Cannock Lions Club Ian Matthews Castleford and Pontefract District Lions Club Mary Page Ashleigh Shaw Chipping Sodbury Lions Club Christopher Smith

Chorley and Leyland Lions Club Peter Bourne Ellie Brown Coningsby and Tattershall Lions Club Dawn Hodges Coventry Godiva Lions Club Pratish Mistry Sunil Parekh Cranleigh and District Lions Club Andrew Houghton Crediton and District Lions Club Janet Davey Anthony Pereira Gray Crewkerne Lions Club Maureen Pittard Dartford Lions Club James Ansell Frey Guppy-Holland Paul Hovell

NEW MEMBERS

Denby Dale District Lions Club Tim Matthews Andy Smith Doncaster Went Valley Lions Club Martin Heavey Julie Hicks Ian Micklethwaite Dorchester and District Lions Club Sara Bester Exeter Lions Club John Fitzsimons Exeter West Lions Club Andrew Soper Fairlop Lions Club Rajesh Goutam Farnham Lions Club Jackie Denyer Felixstowe Lions Club Alex Postoiuk Dylan Woolnough Filey Lions Club Richard Buckle Victoria Buckle Mike Gibson Sue Gibson Folkestone Lions Club Paul Norris

Fowey River Lions Club Kevin Rouse Ruth Rouse Garforth and District Lions Club Gail Lowther Mandy Trueman Glanford and Lindsey Lions Club Gay Helene Gregson John Gregson Gower and Llwchwr Estuary Lions Club Michelle Cruz Great Yarmouth Lions Club Abigail Mobbs Guildford Lions Club Gilly Vance John Willcocks Hastings Lions Club Jeremy Hohenkerk Susan Hohenkerk Harpenden Lions Club Mamadou Aliou Balde Jenny Vestal Harrow and Pinner Lions Club Marco Capobianco

Hart Lions Club Anette Mills Hayling Island Lions Club Sue Armstrong Mills Hayes and Harlington Lions Club Narinder Chadha

Hunstanton Lions Club Chris Ann Holmes Ironbridge-Severn Gorge Lions Club Marilyn Davies Paula Owen Robert Owen

Holderness Lions Club Maxine French

Keighley Lions Club Aasta Clark Jordan McPhail Barry Peel Susan Peel

Holsworthy Lions Club Rhodri Davies Lizzie Shaw-Davies

Kenilworth Lions Club Simeon Connor Onur Can Turedi

Hook-Odiham Lions Club Neil Crew

Knaresborough Lions Club Dale Evans Roger Hewitt

Horley Lions Club Victoria Hazel Hornsea District Lions Club Andrew Carlin Fiona Cooper Sam Henderson Kate Spencer-Payne Horsham Lions Club Keith Ferriman Humberston North Sea Lions Club Richard Wilson

Lancaster Morecambe Lions Club Polly Alston Rosslyn Hobbs Leicester Charnwood Lions Club Paresh Kotecha Yogesh Shah Manish Vithlani Leigh On Sea Lions Club Samantha WalkerHebborn

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

NEW MEMBERS

Liskeard Lions Club Darryl Eyres Llandudno Lions Club Rosalind Hopewell Doreen Richardson

Looe Lions Club Malcolm Butler Tim Johnson

Newport Lions Club Sarah Paginton

Lowestoft Lions Club William Crowther David Dyer

Newport Pagnell and Olney Lions Club Callum Benbow

Plymouth Lions Club Brian French

Newquay Lions Club Steven Daniell Alistair Mckenna

Portishead Lions Club Janice French Stewart French

Newquay Towan Blystra Lions Club Carol Boyle

Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club Nick Gough

Nottingham West Lions Club Powinder Kaur Virdi

Redbridge Centennial Lions Club Manjit Dayal

Nuneaton Lions Club Amanpreet Kaur Rai Pagan Singh Singh

Romsey and Waterside Lions Club Caroline Egg

London Hendon Lions Club Clive Crawford Ravi Haria Clyde Johnson Paresh Pau Manoj Sangani Nikhit Shah

Malton and Norton Lions Club James Lawford Davies

London Platinum Jubilee Lions Club Mrudula Shirishchandra Kothari

Meon Valley Lions Club Dinah Warr

London St Johns Wood Lions Club Manoj Bharania London St James’s Lions Club Azad Ayub Mei Sim Lai Jaime Law Sai Ng Lucy Yk Tse-Mitchell Christine Yau Jintao Yu London Westminster Lions Club Lucia Giombini Hiraj Anilkumar Keshavji

LION

Market Rasen Lions Club Beverely Willis Michael Willis

Melton Mowbray Lions Club Jeffrey Cross Audra Finbow Milton Keynes Central Lions Club Vini Prakash Rahul Krishnan Radhakrishnan Jiban Samal Minster Lions Club Of York Eileen Johnson Newhaven Peacehaven and Seaford Lions Club Duncan Morrison

www.lionsclubs.co

Paddock Wood and District Lions Club Allan Gooda Penrith Lions Club Dale Bartley

Peterborough Lions Club Laura Bailey Chloe Stanley

Rothwell District Lions Club Paul Swithenbank Rutland Lions Club Paul John Cundy Derek Harper Sandie Harper Adrian Rawlings David Walker Ruth Walker Ryedale Lions Club Gary Fowell

NEW MEMBERS

St Albans Lions Club Barney Ng Salisbury and District Lions Club Janet Keah John-James McChesney Sandwell Lions Club Harpal Singh Jandu Scunthorpe Lions Club Robert Clark Seaton and District Lions Club John Nicholls Selsey and District Lions Club Stephen Abbs Jean Furness Severn Dean Lions Club Debby Adams Neale Adams Shakespeare Lions Club Robert Clark Shepshed Lions Club Jean Wilton Southborough Lions Club Cham Leung

Southwold Sole Bay Lions Club Michelle Clarke Spalding Lions Club Elizabeth Batterham Stour Valley Lions Club Richard Probets Edward Young Sudbury Lions Club Gopal Mekala Tavistock Lions Club Derek Penny Tenterden Lions Club David Grant Olha Grant Tetbury Lions Club Keith Hodgson Matthew Nichol Tickhill and District Lions Club Kevin Binks Robert Day Thanet Lions Club Steve Migan The Deepings Lions Club Karen Burrell Rob Burrell

Torpoint and Rame Peninsula Lions Club Kelci Fox Trowbridge Wilts Lions Club Sarah Weston Tynedale Lions Club Fiona Brown Urmston Lions Club Linda Hanson Sheila Thomas Uttoxeter Lions Club Michelle Hayes Wellesbourne Lions Club Kenneth Rothwell Brian Sheepy Westbury Lions Club Dylan Coward Chris Crosby Dawn Kerwin Stefan Kerwin Jean Lucas

Wisbech Lions Club Darren Clements Witney Lions Club Karen Stay Wokingham Berks Lions Club Karl Victor Boddy Veronica Elizabeth Conroy Alwyn Howard Jones Woolwich and Greenwich Lions Club Annee Sabherwal Worthing Lions Club Mary Leedham Jean Sykes Wotton Under Edge Lions Club Roger Smith Yateley and District Lions Club Ian Winchcombe Yeo Valley Lions Club David McGovern

Wetherby District Lions Club Guy Brook Winterton-No Lincolnshire Lions Club Stephanie Bull

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

A LION’S TALE

Lions Clubs of the British Isles are honoured to accept the gift of a framed stained glass representation of the Lions emblem from the family of Roy Gaved, a member of Lions Club of Hastings for 50 years, from April 1973 until he passed to higher service in August. Roy’s daughter, Mandy, shares the story of the photographs shown above: “When he retired from his engineering career, my father took up stained glass as a hobby and produced many pieces, large and small. This one was loaned and on display for some time in the local hospice. The emblem is painted onto coloured glass, set in a white glass background, with a varnished, light wooden frame - also made by my father. It measures 55.3cm square and can be freestanding against a window or wall mounted. The photograph of my father was taken outside his glass studio at home.”

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

IN MEMORIAM

In Memoriam

Lions Clubs International MD105 British Isles

Lions Clubs of the British Isles remember the Lions members who made a commitment to serve their local communities, we honour their memory.

Obituaries: A Celebration of Life ALBERT: Lion Peter Crosby and District Lions Club ANGELIS: Lion Peter Meon Valley Lions Club BAILEY: Lion Gwynn Shepshed Lions Club BARTLETT: Lion Anthony Fowey River Lions Club BASING: Lion Roger Goole and District Lions Club BHAGANI: Lion Rajeshwar London Mill Hill Lions Club BEDSON: Lion John Crewe Lions Club BEER: Lion James Minehead and District Lions Club BURROWS: Lion Roy Kettering and District Lions Club BUTTERWORTH: Lion David Romiley Marple and District Lions Club

COOK: Lion William Cheltenham Lions Club DELF: Lion Michael Looe Lions Club GAIT: Lion Brenda Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club GAVED: Lion Roy Hastings Lions Club GOODWIN: Lion Peter Penrith Lions Club GRAY: Lion Teresa Balsall Common Lions Club GREENWOOD: Lion Philip Plymouth Lions Club HALL: Lion Patricia Sevenoaks Lions Club HARBISHER: Lion Alec Easingwold District Lions Club HART: Lion Kenneth Truro Lions Club HOGAN: Lion Kathleen Malling and District Lions Club

HARBISHER: Lion Alec Easingwold and District Lions Club HARDY: Lion Joan Kenilworth Lions Club LAMBERT: Lion Colin Attleborough Lions Club LAMBERT: Lion Michelle Attleborough Lions Club MAMDOOH: Lion Jalil Solihull Lions Club MANDALIA: Lion Surendra London Platinum Jubilee Lions Club MATTHEWS: Lion John Severn Dean Lions Club MIDDLECOTE: Lion Melville Ross on Wye Lions Club MONTE-PEARSALL: Lion Steven Bromyard Lions Club MOORE: Lion Peggy Lions Club of Bournemouth and Christchurch MORRIS: Lion Kath Alsager Lions Club

CARTER: Lion Les Cheadle Lions Club

HURRELL: Lion Brian Swale Lions Club

CHAPMAN: Lion Linda Marlborough and District Lions Club

JACKSON: Lion Peter Caistor and District Lions Club

CHIPPPERFIELD: Lion Giancarlo Lowestoft Lions Club

JAMES: Lion Allen East Anglia Centennial 100 Champions Lions Club

OSAAN: Lion Jit Kaur Nottingham West Lions Club

CLARKE: Lion Lionel Bodmin Lions Club

JEHAN: Lion Barrie Isle of Wight Ryde Lions Club

PORT: Lion Derek Woolmer Forest Lions Club

CLAYTON: Lion Anthony Stone Lions Club

JOHNSON: Lion Harry Douglas Valley Lions Club

RAMCHANDANI: Lion Gulab Maidstone Lions Club

MUSSELL: Lion Roger Westbury Lions Club ORAM: Lion Geoffrey Midhurst Lions Club

Almoners: Please email obituaries with photograph to: In-Memoriam@lionsclubs.co.uk

RATEL: Lion David Jersey Lions Club REAVLEY: Lion John Redditch Lions Club RHODES: Lion Gordon Hayling Island Lions Club SAMBLES: Lion Audrey Hayling Island Lions Club SPICER: Lion Keith Thornbury Lions Club STEVENS: Lion Frank Tonbridge Lions Club TAMLYN: Lion Christopher Devizes Lions Club TAPPENDEN: Lion Ian Bradford on Avon Lions Club TAYLOR: Lion Leslie Bridlington Lions Club TAYLOR: Lion Tony Gillingham Mere and Shaftesbury Lions Club TURNER: Lion Cecil Crewkerne Lions Club WALDEN: Lion Stephen Thanet Lions Club WEBB: Lion John Bridport Lions Club WHALEY: Lion Brenda Stoke on Trent Lions Club WILSON: Lion Ronald Meon Valley Lions Club YOXALL: Lion Bill Newhaven Peacehaven and Seaford Lions Club

www.lionsclubs.co

LION

TITLE

Travelling just got better… Our curated tours and cruises offer the best way to truly get under the skin of a new destination. River cruises from only £759PP

European tours from only £469PP

Yacht cruises from only £1,699PP

Worldwide tours from only £1,899PP

Book a holiday and get 10% back for your Lions Club

To book, check availability or to request a brochure

Call 01283 248 304 and mention your Lions Club

Visit rivieratravel.co.uk/lions

For group enquiries, email groups@rivieratravel.co.uk or call 01283 742 322

LION

www.lionsclubs.co

Bookings for individuals as well as groups are accepted. Some elements are not commissionable – for full details on the affinity offer, please visit rivieratravel.co.uk/affinity. Please remember to mention your Lions Club at the time of booking. Riviera Travel retain the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

ABTA No. V4744

LION Magazine Autumn/Winter 2023

Articles inside

WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER