Who Are The Lions?
“Aren’t they the people who have that fantastic Bookshop in Jengers Mead; and don’t they raise lots of money and make donations where they’re needed? I know they provide books and help at schools and come round every Christmas with that “Flying Bedstead”, playing carols and Santa waving to everyone. Apart from that, we don’t know much about them at all.”
“Er! Excuse me; sorry to intrude, but I couldn’t help overhearing what you were saying. You are not alone. Maybe I could fill in a few details for you.”
“Oh! Hello. OK. Yes that would be good. Fire away”.
“Sure. Billingshurst & District Lions is an independent Club, but part of the global Lions Club International (LCI) based in America, the largest service organisation in the world, with its motto “We Serve”. Billingshurst Lions is just one of 48,000 Clubs in 235 countries, and one of 800 in the British Isles, all separate, covering a particular area. Billingshurst Lions is currently celebrating 50 years of service in Billingshurst and the surrounding villages.”
“Gosh, so it’s been around since 1974 then, that’s amazing”.
“Today, Billingshurst Lions is a thriving Club, still young at heart, with 32 members, 6 of whom have joined this year, 3 of them women. The Club now has 5 women members and welcomes their perspective in what was once a male dominated environment.”
“That’s very encouraging, women have an important role to play in a modern world”.
“The Club hold business meetings once a month at the Pavilion, Jubilee Fields, to review Fundraising, requests for assistance from the Community and various ongoing or new Projects, together with the Bookshop, Public Relations, Membership, Welfare of members and forthcoming social events which form an important part of being in the Lions.”
“Sounds a great organisation and obviously a considerable asset to the community in and around Billingshurst. Thanks for all that. Maybe we’ll see you around to learn some more”.
“No problem, I’d be delighted. I’ll look out for you. If you have any more questions, please get in touch.”