The Lion of Basingstoke escaped from the club on Saturday,  June 30. But, he was recaptured at Four Lanes School by the children. The children loved him. But the day was very hot so the poor old Lion had to take lots of naps – just like at home his mummy said. 

At the same time seven other (less sleepy) Lions went out to help at the World Party in the Park. This was a superb event and The Making, and all involved, are to be congratulated. The music and dance, the workshops, attractions and food from around the world were all excellent. Favourite quote from a visitor was “I didn’t know Basingstoke did anything like this – it’s fantastic!” I had a personal moment of glory when a group of school kids came up to me and said “We know you – you’re the guy in the black hat with the putting game!” Fame at last.

One of the great benefits of being in a Lions Club is that when a problem is too large for one club to handle, it can invite other clubs to help out. Pangbourne Lions were faced with the case of Owen Kew(6) a dystonic quadriplegic palsy sufferer who needed a specialised wheelchair costing over £14,000. Smart Wheelchairs, a specialist charity supported by many household names, bought the chair for £11,000. Pangbourne Masons Lodge and four Lions Clubs chipped in the balance and Owen now has his chair. Sounds easy – but it took a lot of hard work by all concerned, particularly the Pangbourne Lions Club to raise that sort of money.

During this month we have allocated funds to assist house conversion for an MS sufferer and to assist a student teaching disabled women in Uganda practical skills which will enable them to support themselves. Underwritten costs are around £500. We have also helped four other people with problems related to birth certificates, fares and domestic appliances at a total cost of £70.60.

Lions are Green. Water is the lifeblood of the planet and trees are its lungs. So, last year the president of Lions Clubs International asked the 46,000 Lions Clubs around the world to plant a million trees during the year. Last month he reported that as a result of our efforts 13.8 million additional trees have so far been planted around the world and the number is still rising. World leaders talk about it – Lions get on and do it! Join us and help to make a difference!

You know you can help us just my going out and having a good time. Our next major events are ABBA Sensation at QMC on September 22 (a recall after their great performance for us last year) followed by The Hampshire Constabulary Band, also at QMC, on November 17. A discount of £2 per ticket is given if you buy both at once. You know it makes sense! Get your tickets by calling 01256 421867 or 325280.

Please visit us at http://www.basingstokelions.org.uk/