Newbury Lions Club's celebrates 50th anniversary donation and successful Speen fete fundraiser
Newbury Lions Club has celebrated a special anniversary by donating an accessible picnic bench, placed by the canal on Lock Island.
Enjoying a double celebration, the group also organised a successful fundraising Speen fete at the weekend.
The organisation has been supporting the community in Newbury and the surrounding areas since 1970, but were unable to celebrate their 50 years of service in 2020 due to Covid lockdowns.
Margo Payne, Lions vice president said: “We were planning a big celebration dinner to mark our 50th anniversary but Covid intervened.
“We have been thinking of how we could mark the occasion that would also be a benefit to the community at large.
“The picnic bench is designed to be accessible to wheelchair users, is eco-friendly and is built to last. We hope that locals and visitors alike will enjoy using the bench."
On Saturday (June 18) they were at Speen fete fundraising and Mrs Payne said "it was a great success".
She added: “Speen Fête had a real community feel about, lots of people supported charity stalls, spent money at the retail stalls and enjoyed food and drink.
“The English Civil War Society were a great focal point throughout the afternoon and there was great entertainment from East Woodhay Silver Band and Kennet Radio.
“All the money raised by the Lions will go back into the community through support from the our welfare fund.”
The Lions Club is a group of people who use their spare time to help those in the community who may need support.
They fundraise throughout the year, with their main event being the annual Fireworks Spectacular held at Newbury Racecourse, which has become known for its brilliant display.
All money raised goes directly to those in need in the local area who are referred through statutory agencies.
If you would like to offer your help at any of their charity events email info@newburylions.org.uk or take a look at their Facebook page.
Their next major fundraising event is the annual fireworks display on November 5, but they will be hosting a BBQ at Newbury Waterways Festival held in Victoria Park on July 3.
