MELKSHAM Lions Club will reach its 50-year milestone next month and will be hosting community events throughout the year to celebrate the occasion.
Back in late 1973, a group of local businessmen got together to see what they could do to put something back into the community. A lot of ideas were explored until, finally, on 3rd May 1974, the Melksham Lions Club was formed.
50 years later, and with more than £500,000 raised for good causes, Melksham Lions continues to flourish and still has one of the founder members in their ranks, Simon White, known to many in and around Melksham.
In celebration of their 50th anniversary, Melksham Lions have a number of events and activities planned, including a Picnic in the Park, a 50th Anniversary Extravaganza, a town hall lights display, a Spot the Golden Lions competition, and a 50th anniversary programme.
50th Anniversary Programme
Lions’ president, Philip Gaskell said, “The anniversary programme will be available from July onwards and will tell of what we have achieved over the 50 years, one or two really old photographs, support from our sponsors, and our Spot the Golden Lions form.
Spot the Golden Lions
“These will be in our shops from mid-July onwards – simply work out how many Golden Lions you think there are and bring your completed form to the Picnic in the Park (see below), All correct answers will be entered in a draw with a chance to win a prize.
Lights Display
“From mid-September to mid-October the town Hall will be lit up with the Lions emblem and colours.
Picnic in the Park
“This will be held in King George V Park on Saturday 14th September from 10am to 4pm. You can either bring your own food, or Jack’s Kitchen will be open for the event.
“We are planning lots of stalls and various entertainment and activities, details of which will be published nearer the time. A fun time will be had by all.
50th Anniversary Extravaganza
“This will be held at the Melksham Assembly Hall on Saturday 12th October, starting at 7pm, and promises to be one of the town’s events of the year. We will have music from two bands, a finger buffet supplied by Jack’s Kitchen, a huge raffle with lots of prizes, drinks available until late and hopefully a celebrity guest. Again, more details will be published nearer the time.
“All of us at the Lions are very grateful for the support that the Melksham and surrounding public have shown us, and we look forward to seeing you all again during our celebrations.”
