Spring has been declared by the Met Office so it is a good time to report back about events which have recently been completed and, more importantly, think about the new ones planned or reinstated for the coming months.  One major point is that we are now all getting back into the swing of things after the turmoil of the last few years and can look forward with a more positive outlook on the future. 

 

Once again the Lions helped Santa with his sleigh visiting the streets of Wetherby and welcome those breaking their journey at Wetherby Services on the A1(M) - where he was most generously supported.  The 2023 'Senior Citizens Party' returned to its traditional January date and nearly 200 guests enjoyed a very pleasurable and entertaining day out. 

 

The generosity of the people of Wetherby came to the fore regarding the earthquake disaster in Turkey and we were delighted to forward £1,500 to Lions International Fund as Wetherby’s contribution towards the creation of a temporary Lions Village for those made homeless. 

 

Looking to the coming months, Lions and their partners will be training to provide a shocking event (bad pun intended!) if needed.  Many defibrillators are sited around the town, with the Lions frequently contributing to the cost.  Covid‑19 prevented the last scheduled training event but the replacement will be going ahead in the near future and Lions will be familiarised in the use of these lifesaving pieces of equipment. 

 

On a sad note, two long serving members of Wetherby Lions, John Hubbard and Colin Gaden, passed away to ‘higher service’ recently.  I would personally like to pay tribute to their mentorship and guidance during my membership of the Club.  They will be remembered by the installation of two benches near the Riverside bandstand but I am sure most people will remember them for their service unstintingly given to the community. 

 

We will continue to provide a holiday for families in need through the caravan managed by Filey Lions.  Our provision of temporary wheelchair loans goes from strength to strength.  A new venture in Wetherby which will be supported by the Lions will be to provide a meeting and socialising venue for young people with severe physical needs and we wish the venture every success. 

 

Keeping the best and most exciting event to last, Wetherby Lions are proud to announce we have been invited to cooperate with the Wetherby Riverside Bandstand Trust to create and organise the Wetherby 'Drovers' Brass Band Marching competition through the town as part of Leeds City of Culture 2023.  Please keep an eye on the Lions’ website for further information and save the date – Saturday 1st July 2023, for a truly amazing spectacle. 

 

Have a good year and if you see myself or any of my fellow Lions walking round the town come and say hello and if you would like to help out in any way at any of our activities please get in touch. 

 

Lion President Tim Ritson