by John Prince
Members of the Hornsea District Lions Club have been celebrating after being presented with long-service awards for their commitment and dedication to helping others.
Lions Clubs International is the largest non-political, non-sectarian volunteer service organisation in the world.
Rather than operating as a centralised charity, it functions through thousands of local, autonomous clubs.
Members raise funds, volunteer time and tailor their efforts to address immediate needs in their specific communities, while also contributing to major global health and humanitarian initiatives.
Last Tuesday, long-service chevrons were presented at Hornsea Golf Club by Vice District Governor Lion Mike Byrne on behalf of the President of Lions Clubs International.
Mel Watson received a chevron for 25 years’ service, while Les and Ruth Short were given chevrons for 15 years’ service.
The highlight of the night, however, was when a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellowship (PMJF) was presented to John Briggs BEM – one of the highest honours bestowed by the Lions Clubs International Foundation for outstanding humanitarian work.
Named after the founder of Lions, Melvin Jones, it is the first time anyone in the Hornsea club has received such an accolade. Mr Briggs also received a chevron for 15 years’ service.
Mel Watson said: “Unfortunately John is leaving the club, as he and his wife Maureen are moving to Scarborough for family reasons.
“He has been a member of our club since becoming a Lion.
“The amount of work he has done for the club, and especially the District Disabled Fun and Sports Day in Doncaster, is truly amazing. He was also presented with a number of thank-you awards from the club.
“He will be greatly missed.
“We are all very proud of him, and certainly wish him and Maureen all the best for the future in their new home.”