A CHARITY based in Tadley has raised £11,500 through Christmas nights out in Tadley.

Loddon Valley Lions Club said they have completed a number of volunteer services and charity works in the past year despite it being a difficult year with Covid and restrictions.

Vanessa Tolson-Goddard, the president of the club, said: “We were able to help with several members volunteering at the Covid centres, while we also helped people in the local community whose needs came to us via local authorities and public bodies.

“Several washing machines, cookers and fridges were bought. We provided two wheelchairs and even did massive food shops for those facing real hardship.

“Small groups of Lions did a litter pick at various locations around Tadley and Baughurst on World Earth Day in April, while we also took our vehicle off the road as we knew we couldn't use it for some months, thus saving the charity some money.”

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The Lions Club restarted holding their physical meetings only in July after the end of lockdowns. The subsequent planning helped the charity hold their annual Tadley Treacle Fair in September.

“It was, a fantastic success, the sun shone and people were really ready for some fun,” Ms Tolson-Goddard said.

“It topped up our dwindling funds well. Our annual golf tournament at Bishopwood Golf Course at end of September also raised money for St Michael’s Hospice and we handed over a cheque for £2,500 to them.

“Loddon Valley Lions Club started their busy December actually on Nov 26 helping at Tadley lights switch on, with Father Christmas & elves with collecting buckets to raise money for Tadley Age Concern.

“Then on December 1, the Lions started the 19 nights out with the fabulous float, lit up and music blaring, starting at 5.15pm most evenings. We didn’t knock on doors again this year, but stopped at various points each night, with Father Christmas and 4-5 Elves, chatting to excited children, collecting their colourings and giving out lollypops.”

“To finish we took up position outside Sainsbury's Tadley on Christmas Eve, with the float, where children could come and have daylight photos with Father Christmas and raised over £1,100.

“Over the 19 nights & four hours at Sainsbury's, just over £11,500 was raised. This has given the LVLC financial stability once more.”

“On December 18, a team of Lions members gathered in Pamber Heath Memorial Hall and put together 192 bags of goodies and essentials. Bags were then distributed by Lions members to the needy in the local area.

“To finish the year 14 prizes were hand-delivered to winners of the children's colouring competition.”

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The Lions Club is now looking forward to raising funds and helping people in the local community in 2022.

Tadley Treacle Fair is scheduled to be held on June 5 this year.

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