2018 has been a year of mixed fortunes for Melksham Lions Club.
Jim Whyborn, president of Melksham Lions Club reports, “Some members have retired and I’m glad to say new members have joined and hopefully some more will be joining us early 2019. There is also some reorganising of our Lions’ district boundaries which will mean closer contact with all the clubs in Wiltshire.
“Melksham Lions was formed in 1974, our meetings have always been on the first Tuesday of the month but due to new circumstances, we will now meet on the second Tuesday starting in February 2019. We meet at 8pm in The Pilot Bowerhill and all are welcome to come and see what Lions is about whether as a guest, prospective member or just curious.
“2018 started on a sad note; Santa and his reindeer made a special Christmas visit to a young person who was ill and died not long after, we all felt the loss.
“We have many requests and referrals throughout the year from social services, CAB, and other Lions clubs and individuals, all are assessed by our welfare team and help provided where we can. We have supplied many items such as cookers, washing machines, freezer and furniture.
“There is in Melksham temporary accommodation for the vulnerable homeless and for the past four years we have been providing reception packs of essentials, we have also been collecting bedding saucepans etc for them. So far we have made up over 60 packs – that’s 60 people who arrived with nothing. We arrange a Christmas Party and Easter egg hunt for the children, thanks to Dave Hickory who gives up his time to entertain the children.
“Lions provide and distributes the ‘Message in a Bottle’ and these can be obtained in pharmacies, doctors’ surgeries throughout the town and our stall at various events during the year.
“The Lion year begins in July when new officers are appointed and is a good excuse to have a handover dinner. There are many social events, charter dinners, lunches with other clubs always a good time to make new friends and contacts.
“Now Christmas is upon us, our busiest time of the year, I would like to thank the people of Melksham for their support and generosity and we will continue to help and support you when you need it.
“Now on to 2019, we start with a charity quiz on 21st January 8pm at The White Hart in Atworth, teams of 4 at £2.50 per person, please come and support us.
“On behalf of Melksham Lions we wish you a Happy and Prosperous 2019.”
