The Lions Club of Rutland CIO

Oakham, England - United Kingdom

 

To find out more visit our COMMUNITY SERVICE DONATIONS

 

 

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The Lions Club of Rutland: Was created in 1975 and is a small but important part of the International Association of Lions Clubs, the largest service organisation in the world with 44,500 Clubs in 205 countries, and with a total of 1.3 million members. In the pages of this website you will find information describing what the Rutland Lions do to help their local community - particularly supporting those less fortunate than ourselves. Being a Rutland based club we use most of our resources to support Rutlanders, and since 1975 have contributed many thousands of pounds each year to help local organisations and individuals.

We do also support in conjunction with other clubs National and International projects and appeals - this includes the Lions Clubs International responses to disasters throughout the world. Founded as a male only club, for the last eleven years Rutland Lions has welcomed men and women members, and in 2019 installed its first lady President.

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Lions Clubs International: Now the largest humanitarian service organisation in the world, Lions Club International was founded in 1917, the vision of one man, Melvin Jones, whose guiding principle was, "You won't get very far in this world until you start doing something for somebody else". Lions Clubs have been doing "something for somebody else" for over 100 years and celebrated their centennial in 2017. The guiding principle is now distilled down to the LCI motto, We Serve, and the aim that Where There's a Need, There's a Lion. To find out a little bit more about Melvin Jones, click the link below.

MELVIN JONES

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Lions Charter Dinner 29th June 2024: The 49th birthday of The Lions Club of Rutland was held at Rutland Water Golf Club on Saturday 29th June, and which saw the handover of Presidential accoutrements from outgoing President Kev Gladding to incoming President Paul Mills. The event welcomed a number of dignatories, namely David McKirdy, 105CW District Governor, David Houghton, 105CW Zone Three Chair and Richard Coles, High Sheriff of Rutland.

NEW PRESIDENT PAUL MILLS (left) & IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT KEV GLADDING

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Armed Forces Breakfast Club 29JUN24: Incoming President Paul Mills attended the Armed Forces Breakfast Club following a donation from The Lions Club of Rutland.

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Uppingham School Community Service Award Presentation 13JUN24: President Kev Gladding was proud to present The Lions Club of Rutland's Community Service Award at Uppingham School to Farleigh House, who made their £100 charitable donation to Mango Tree, a charity that supports educational attainment in Eastern Africa.

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Lions Meeting 09JAN24: A great turn out for our January meeting with tasty food at the Admiral Hornblower and two presentations. The first Community Service Award was made to Ned Evans, the student chosen by Catmose College as deserving of the award for 2023/24. Ned received a prize of £50 and donated a further £100 to Ali Wainwright, Head of Rutland Foodbank. 

PRESIDENT KEV OBSERVES AS NED EVANS PRESENTS HIS DONATION TO ALI WAINWRIGHT

The meeting continued with a talk from Dr. Tim Gray, founder of EMICS, the East Midlands Immediate Care Service, and the presentation of a cheque for £1,000 to enable Tim and his team to continue to provide medical care at the scene of an accident or incident.

PRESIDENT KEV PRESENTS A CHEQUE FOR £1,000 TO DR. TIM GRAY of EMICS

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Rutland Lions Support Rainbows Children's Hospice 14NOV23: Guest speaker was Gary Farnfield, Head of Fundraising at Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. Gary updated our monthly meeting on future plans and activities at Rainbows and was presented a cheque for £1,000 the third in a series of donations from Rutland Lions to this wonderful organisation.

PRESIDENT KEV PRESENTING OUR DONATION TO GARY FARNFIELD FROM RAINBOWS HOSPICE

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Games galore for Youth Space July 12th 2023: Lions Allan Grey and Paul Mills were delighted to see that the £450 funded to the Uppingham-based after school club had been well spent. Youth leader Alice Johnson said that the money made a huge difference to the group for 11–16-year-olds, who chose to spend it on kit for indoor and outdoor activities. The equipment was seized and sampled as soon as it was set out!

YOUTH SPACE PRESENTATION WITH UPPINGHAM MAYOR LIZ CLARKE, CENTRE

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Marie Curie Collection February 17th/18th 2023: Every year Lions clubs across the UK collect for the Marie Curie charity, and 2023 was no different for Rutland Lions, hosted by Tesco in Oakham we collected £532 over the Friday & Saturday. The best part of the two days is wearing the famous yellow Marie Curie hats, as ably demonstrated in the images below.

DAVID, DIANE & JEAN at TESCO OAKHAM

MIKE AND PAUL

TRUDY AND ALLAN

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Rutland Show Volunteers Thank You Evening 22nd July 2022: Each year Rutland Lions earn a fee for helping prepare and then marshalling at The Rutland Show. Our fee of £2,500 was split three ways this year, £750 to Peppers the mental health charity in Oakham and Melton, £750 to Rainbows Children's Hopsice, and £1,000 into our charity account to support the regular requests for financial support we receive. We are a small club, and as a consequence cannot deliver our brief at the Show without many willing volunteers and supporters, which we recognised via an evening barbeque at Oakham Rugby Club. Pippa Gorman representing Peppers, and Jenny Ball representing Rainbows Hospice each gave a quick outline of the work that their charities undertake, and received their presentational cheques.

PIPPA RECEIVING OUR CHEQUE ON BEHALF OF PEPPERS, A SAFE SPACE

JENNY RECEIVING OUR CHEQUE ON BEHALF OF RAINBOWS HOSPICE

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Lucas Bottomley Appeal July 2022: Following up from an earlier donation to Lucas's Go Fundme page, Rutland Lions raised further funds for this appeal via a Pimms stall at the recent Proms in the Park, and a bucket collection outside Tesco culminating in an £1,100 donation to support Lucas's palliative care.

LUCAS AND HIS DAD JAMIE BOTTOMLEY, THE POSTER USED AT THE TESCO BUCKET COLLECTION

MARTIN, PIPPY & BRIAN RUN THE PIMMS STALL AT PROMS IN THE PARK

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Winners of the Lions Acronym Quiz 6th June 2022: The vaccination programme in Rutland has led to everyone having to learn many new TLAs, better known as Three Letter Acronyms, LLR, CCG, NHS, PCN, FFS and a few more. Lion President Allan Grey set an acronym quiz for staff and volunteers at Oakham Enterprise Park, and is seen here presenting prizes to Site Manager Sasha from LLR Providers Co Ltd, and volunteer Lindsey.

LION PRESIDENT ALLAN PRESNTS CHOCOLATE PRIZES TO SASHA & LINDSEY

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Lions at The Rutland County Show 4th June 2022: Once again Rutland Lions helped Rutland Agricultural Society prepare and marshal the Rutland Show, earning a fee that will be shared between two local charities, Peppers, the mental health charity, and Rainbows Children Hospice.

PAUL, BRIAN & ALLAN, LIONS TWO, ONE & THREE

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Platinum Jubilee Diabetes Screening 2nd June 2022: Rutland Lions hosted the Diabetes Screening bus at Tesco's Platinum Jubilee market recently, and results have just been received. 48 people were tested over five hours, with 12 people being identified as 'Very High Risk', each then being referred to their GP for further assessment. The screening took account of blood sugar level, lifestyle and family history, and was free to all who chose to be tested.

LION JULIE ROLLAND, SUPPORTER LORNA GREY with HER MAJESTY

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Uppingham School Sports Centre Easter Eggs 12th April 2022: Staff at Uppingham School Sports Centre charged people to pay for use of the centre with Easter Eggs over Easter, and then donated all the eggs to Rutland Lions. Lions then donated them in turn to the Uppingham Foodbank, plus one or two indivdual requests.

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VIP Visit to Rutland Vaccination Centre 11th April 2022: Rutland Lions continue to coordinate volunteers at the Rutland vaccination centre, and along with staff were pleased to welcome Maggie Throup MP, the vaccines minister, and local MP Alicia Kearns for a visit to the clinic.

MAGGIE THROUP MP (7th from Left) & ALICIA KEARNS MP (far right)

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Lions Presentation to Rutland Health & Wellbeing 14th March 2022: Rutland Lions were delighted to be able to donate £750 to Rutland Health & Wellbeing, inorder to keep this group operational for a further year.

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Lions Support Brooke Hill Academy 10th March 2022: Rutland Lions were delighted to be able to complete the fundraising to enable Brooke Hill Academy refurbish their astro turf playing surface. President Allan Grey and Lion Paul Mills presenting a cheque for £2,000 to Head Teacher Rachel Moss, School Manager Dave Smith, and Premises Officer Jason Smith.

 

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Vaccination Volunteer Thank Evening 18th February 2022: Rutland Lions held a Thank You Evening for the many volunteers at the Rutland Vaccination Centre. The event was held at The Wisteria Hotel in Oakham, and Certificates of Appreciation were presented to all the volunteers attending.

TOP VOLUNTEER LINDA RECEIVES A SPECIAL AWARD FOR HER CAR PARKING PROWESS

LIONS PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY PRESENTS A CERTIFICATE TO REGULAR VOLUNTEER TERRY THOMPSON

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High Sheriff Presentation at Rutland Vaccination Centre 20th December 2021: High Sheriff David Wood visited the vaccination centre to present a Certficate of Appreciation to all the Covid vaccination volunteers.

HIGH SHERIFF DAVID WOOD PLUS VACCINATION STAFF & VOLUNTEERS

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Lions Christmas Tableau December 2021: As he has been doing for over 40 years now, Santa is escorted around Uppingham and Oakham in his sleigh, visiting many delighted children. The format has been changed the last two years, and the elves no longer knock on doors, but families can track Santa via Rutland Lions facebook page, or they can listen out for the BELL, which signals Santa is getting close. All Santa's routes are advertised on Rutland Lions Facebook page.

 

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Lions College Community Service Awards December 2021: Lion President Allan Grey presenting Lions Community Service Awards to deserving students at four local colleges. Students were selected by their college against some community service criteria provided by Rutland Lions. The winners each received a certificate plus £150 prize, £100 toward a charity of their choice, and £50 for themselves.

HARVEY FROM CASTERTON COLLEGE

ASHLEY FROM CATMOSE COLLEGE

OISIN FROM UPPINGHAM COMMUNITY COLLEGE

HARSHA FROM HARINGTON COLLEGE

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Lions Virtual Fireworks Advertising 6th October 2021: After Rutland County Council objected to our real banner on the gate to the Rutland Showground, a virtual banner was created which went viral on social media, giving the annual fireworks display the best possible advertising.

THE VIRTUAL FIREWORKS BANNER AT THE SHOWGROUND ENTRANCE

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Rutland Lions to Coordinate Volunteers at Rutland Vaccination Centre 5th October 2021: From October 2021, The Lions Club of Rutland has taken on the coordination of volunteers at the relocated Rutland Vaccination Centre following in the footsteps of Melton Mowbray Lions who have been undertaking a similar role in Melton since the beginning of the vaccination programme.

VOLUNTEER MICH STURLEY WITH LIONS PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY

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Presentations to Rainbows Hospice & Peppers Charities 23rd September 2021: Presenting the proceeds of the bottle tombola.....

...TO JENNY BALL AT RAINBOWS...

...AND PIPPA GORMAN AT PEPPERS

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Lions Community Service BBQ for RCC Carers Awards Day 11th September 2021: Rutland Lions providing a community service barbeque for Rutland County Council's Carers Awards event at Ketton Sports & Social Club.

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Bottle Tombola at Langham Street Market 30th August 2021: Rutland Lions and supporters raising funds via a bottle tombola at the Langham August Bank Holiday Street market; proceeds were shared between Peppers, A Safe Space, mental health charity and Rainbows Children's Hospice.

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Lions Community Service BBQ for Rotaract 14th August 2021: Lions were delighted to be able to provide their usual barbeque service to Rotaract Family Support Group summer party at Launde.

RUTLAND LORD LIEUTENANT SARAH FURNESS THANKS THE LIONS BARBEQUE TEAM

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Lions BBQ at Oakham United Finals Day 24th July 2021: Lions and supporters running a fundraising barbeque at Oakham United finals day.

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An Early Presidential Handover 9th June 2021: As the Lion year comes to and end (June 30th), outgoing President Iain Reeves hands over the chain of office to incoming President Allan Grey.

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Lions Donation to English Martyrs Primary School 15th March 2021: Lions donated £500 toward furniture for the refurbished library at English Martyrs Primary School

HEAD TEACHER MRS. CHAMBERS & LIONS PRESIDENT IAIN REEVES

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Santa Visits Rutland 2020: As ever at Christmas, Santa is escorted around Uppingham & Oakham by The Lions Club of Rutland meeting many very happy children and families along the way.

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Lions Donation to The Parks School Oakham 15th December 2020: Rutland Lions present a cheque for just over £1,000 to The Parks School in Oakham, enabling them to purchase three iPads, with which staff will be better able to monitor the progress of their pupils.

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Lions Help Lily October 2020: Lions Club of Rutland were delighted to help get Lily Keightley mobile with this purpose built trike, contributing toward the £1,600 cost.

GO LILY

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Marie Curie Collection February 2020: Members of Rutland Lions manned the collection tins all day Saturday 22nd February, and with their usual bright cheery banter with shoppers at Tesco IN Oakham, collected a fantastic £640. Thank you to everyone who popped some cash into our tins.

LIONS ALLAN GREY & MIKE SAYWOOD COLLECTING FOR MARIE CURIE

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STOP PRESS: SANTA WILL VISIT RUTLAND THIS CHRISTMAS

Click HERE for full schedule

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FIREWORKS & FUNFAIR 2019:

Click HERE for full details of Fireworks & Funfair

Click HERE to purchase tickets online in advance of the event

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Some of the Great Work Lions Do: Click LINK to see how Lions help prevent blindness in Nepal, great work.

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Rutland Primary Schools Rugby Tag Team at Twickenham - October 2019: Rutland Lions were delighted to support via donation a trip to Twickenham for the Primary Schools Tag Team. Click LINK to read all about their winning trip, and a big thank you.

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Tovertafel is for Kids 27th September 2019: Children from a Rutland County Council project called Visions visited Rutland Care Village, having great fun with the new Magic Table (Tovertafel). While they were there, they were also able to meet the somewhat older residents of the care home. This particular group is called the Stay-and-Play group, ranging in age between one and four years of age; the aim being to foster contact between the old and the young through various activities.

CATCHING BUBBLES ON THE MAGIC TABLE

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Tovertafel at Rutland Care Village 5th September 2019: With the help of The High Sheriff of Rutland, residents and staff at the Rutland Care Village in Oakham, along with members of Rutland Lions celebrated the launch of a Tovertafel Magic Table unit last Thursday afternoon. The £6,000 Magic Table will be available for both residents and visitors to the dementia unit at the village, and has been donated by Rutland Lions, and in particular was the brainchild of the immediate past president, Julie Rolland. 

The Magic Table is an award winning innovation from the Netherlands, and is renown for its cutting edge approach to dementia care. The technology has been developed to help those in the mid to later stages of dementia to be more active and to create moments of happiness. Some 2,500 units have been installed in care homes across Europe, and it has been brought to the UK by the social enterprise company Shift8. 

The Magic Table consists of a series of interactive games that are projected from above onto a table. The light games encourage players around the table to reach out toward them with the lights subsequently responding to their hand and arm movements, allowing residents to play with light, which is a truly magical experience. Games are formulated with the intention of triggering a sense of reminiscence, and to stimulate social, cognitive and physical abilities.

RUTLAND HIGH SHERIFF MARGARET MILES CUTS THE RIBBON AND LAUNCHES TOVERTAFEL AT RUTLAND CARE VILLAGE

HIGH SHERIFF MARGARET MILES AND PAST PRESIDENT JULIE ROLLAND JOIN RESIDENTS TO TRY OUT THE NEW MAGIC TABLE

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Meeting Our New District Governor 4th September 2019: On a regular Wednesday social evening this week, trying our hand at archery with the lovely members of The Rutland Bowmen at Greetham Valley, up pops our new District Governor, Ian Gott. Ian is governor of MD105CW, a district of 93 clubs, a sizeable area. Ian is aiming to make contact and visit most if not all of them during his Lion year which ends at the end of June 2020; MD105CW stretches from Pembroke in the west to Essendine Rutland in the east. Following the archery Ian joined Rutland Lions members for supper at The Wheatsheaf in Greetham and presented club president Nick Woodley with a friendship pennant. DG Ian also requested we consider two aims for the year, firstly that we collect old spectacles and secondly we distribute "Message in a Bottle"

PRESIDENT NICK WOODLEY RECEIVING DG IAN GOTT'S FRIENDSHIP PENNANT

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Rotaract Anniversary BBQ Saturday 13th July 2019: Rutland Lions once again had the pleasure of catering for the Rutland Rotaract Family Support Group, this year for their 25th anniversary gathering at Topstones campsite. This truly is serving our local community, with delicious burgers and hot dogs.

CAROLINE ABDUL-RAHMAN WITH LION BRIAN & A DELICIOUS BURGER

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Another New Member Joins Rutland Lions June 2019: Rutland Lions are delighted to welcome Paul Harris as a new member of our club. Paul was sponsored by Lion Sue Hooley (on left), and welcomed to the club by President Julie Rolland (on right).

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Rutland County Show 2019: Once again members and supporters of Rutland Lions provided a strong team to help set up and marshal the County Show. On a sunny but breezy week, with a few inconvenient showers thrown in for good measure, a total of 35 people volunteered. One highlight of the show was the Diabetes Screening vehicle sponsored by Rutland Lions to afford visitors to the Show the opportunity to be tested for Type Two diabetes. Diabetes is one of the five global health challenges sponsored by Lions worldwide. Over 50 visited the van during the show, with their results and any recommendations being communicated back to their GPs or primary care locations. Over the full week and show day itself, the team from Rutland Lions put in an amazing 350 person hours (we used to call them manhours) in exchange for a healthy donation from the Rutland Agricultural Society. A second revenue stream came from the cake and children's tombola stall in the community area of the show.

LIONS CLARE KAVANAGH & NICK WOODLEY PROMOTING THE SILVER STAR DIABETES SCREENING VEHICLE

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Supporting Sight-Saving Eye Cataract Surgery in Nepal March 2019: Rutland Lions continue to support eye cataract surgery in remote Nepal, in line with one of Lions International global causes, and as originally challenged by Helen Keller, to be Knights of the Blind. In conjunction with three other clubs within district MD105E, Rutland Lions transferred a total of £1,900 toward another cataract screening and surgery camp later in 2019.

President Julie Rolland was delighted to receive a cheque for £100 from Nottingham West Lions at their 25th Charter evening, which along with donations from Edwinstowe & Dukeries Lions and Rothley & Soar Valley Lions completed the £1,900 donation.

RUTLAND LIONS ALLAN GREY, NICK WOODLEY, PRESIDENT JULIE ROLLAND, GORDON ROLLAND & PIPPY WOODLEY

(PHOTO COURTESY: KARAM BHARIJ - VICE PRESIDENT COVENTRY MERCIA LIONS CLUB)

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NOW HERE'S SOME REASONS HOW YOU MIGHT BENEFIT FROM BECOMING A RUTLAND LION

Become part of your local community

Help support local and international causes through charitable donations

Have fun raising money and being involved by giving something back to your local community

Receive the International Lions Magazine

Enjoy Rutland Lions Social Events

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It's Great to Get Feedback February 2019: As ever, for over 40 years now Rutland Lions have been supporting the local community wherever they can, and just like anyone else it's always great to get some positive feedback. Back in November Catmose College held their annual Presentation and Awards evening and student Olivia Hunnikin won the Rutland Lions Community Service Award. Click HERE to read a thank you from Principal Stuart Williams. Rutland Lions were also thanked by Dave Smith, Business Manager at Brook Hill Academy. Our donation has enabled four pupils to experience a PGL trip, something like Outward Bound for all readers over 40.

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Supporting The Rutland Foodbank January 2019: Rutland Lions President Julie Rolland was delighted to present a cheque for £1,278 to Rutland Foodbank Chairman David Clark and his team at the Foodbank in Oakham, Friday 25th January. The sizeable cheque comprised the proceeds of the Lions Carol Concert in Uppingham as well as those of Santa’s static collection in Oakham the Saturday before Christmas. The donation supporting the Rutland Foodbank Christmas Hamper Appeal succeeds the Lions long running Christmas Goodie bag distribution event which eventually fell foul of the latest data privacy laws. This made it increasingly difficult for the Lions to ensure that the most deserving people received a Christmas treat. The Foodbank have more effective processes in place to ensure the right people were served with a purpose designed Christmas hamper.

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Supporting Rutland Girl Guides January 2019: Click HERE for a big thank you from the Rutland Girl Guides following a donation from Rutland Lions

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Another Santa Tour Completed December 2018: Well another year is nearly over and Santa has just completed his, 38th tour of an expanding Rutland. He managed nine tours, two in Uppingham and seven in Oakham, plus the traditional static on Oakham's Market Square the Saturday before Christmas, and although there were a couple of wet evenings, there was a super turnout of families and children on Christmas Eve. Rutland Lions would like to thank everyone who came and met Santa and received one of his chocolates, and of course all those who donated so generously. Funds collected at Santa's static were in aid of the Rutland Foodbank.

SANTA WITH EDWARD SOWTER (FOODBANK) & MONICA COMPTON (LIONS) 

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Lions Welcome New Members, September 2018: Rutland Lions are delighted to announce that Martin Baynes and Clare Kavanagh have joined the club and swelled their membership by two. It is always great to welcome new members, especially those that are as enthusiastic as Martin & Clare, and young as well. We all hope you will find your time with Rutland Lions both enjoyable and rewarding.

LION PRESIDENT JULIE ROLLAND WELCOMES CLARE & MARTIN

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Rutland Lions Serving the Community July 2018: The Lions Club of Rutland have been very active recently with a number of significant donations to local individuals and organisations. One of the most recent is the purchase of a special wheelchair for a local Community Interest Company, Inspire2tri. This enables people with disabilities to transfer from their regular wheelchair into the transfer chair in preparation for use of the hydrotherapy pool, and ensure no dirt, mud etc, is transferred into the pool area. Neil Johanessen is a regular user of the hydrotherapy pool, and this is what he had to say about the new transfer chair:-

"I have a progressive lower-body neurological condition for which my weekly hydrotherapy sessions at inspire2tri provide essential whole body exercise and stretching. Now that I use a wheelchair, their new wheeled shower/transfer chair means I no longer need to take my own chair into the pool and changing areas. My trusty steed's sometimes mucky wheels can now stay safely well out of harm's way! Thank you Rutland Lions, your generosity has made a real difference, and really is very much appreciated."

FROM HIS OWN WHEELCHAIR TO THE TRANSFER CHAIR

NEIL READY FOR THE HYDROTHERAPY POOL

Click HERE for the fascinating tale of Neil's very rare disorder

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Tod's Piece Meeting Place in Uppingham 5th July 2018: One final piece of duty for outgoing President Bob Fisher, was to present a plaque commemorating his President's project, a meeting place for young people adjacent to a skate park on Tod's Piece in Uppingham. Gratefully receiving not just the plaque, but the fully installed meeting place was Uppingham Town Council mayor, Miranda Jones. Realising that as well as a meeting place with seats, this contemporary structure could be mistaken for a climbing frame, a suitably contemporary pose was taken.

FROM L to R: MIRANDA JONES, LIONS TREASURER GORDON ROLLAND, OUTGOING PRESIDENT BOB FISHER, LIONS PRESIDENT JULIE ROLLAND

Click HERE for more images of the President's project

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Rutland Lions Catering June/July 2018: As summer arrives at long last, the Lions Club of Rutland is to be seen at many local events providing the very best in BBQ catering. This year Rutland Lions catered at three events in Cutts Close, Oakham, firstly a Father's Day gathering, secondly Proms in the Park, and lastly Armed Forces Day. Rutland Lions are able to cater for large summer gatherings, with at least 90% of the proceeds going to local deserving people and organisations.

THE LIONS BBQ AT PROMS IN THE PARK

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Celebrating Our 43rd Birthday Party 25th May 2018: Over 60 members and guests of The Lions Club of Rutland attended the 43rd Charter, or birthday party at The Old Vicarage, Burley-on-the-Hill on Friday 25th May. Amongst the guests were the Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Dr. Sarah Furness, Rutland's High Sheriff Sue Jarron, and a Lion visitor from Timaru Lions club in South Island, New Zealand. The Lord Lieutenant paid tribute to our club, commenting that the good nature of club members rubbed off on the local community, enabling us to continue our good work both locally, nationally and internationally. Lion Liam Gorman from Timaru Lions presented President Bob Fisher with a friendship banner, thanking everyone for their hospitality. Members and guests toured the magnificent gardens of Sandra & Johnny Blaza at The Old Vicarage before tucking into a tasty buffet whilst listening to Oakham's latest music phenomena, The D'Ukes of Rutland, a local Ukulele band.

FROM L to R: HIGH SHERIFF SUE JARRON, PRESIDENT BOB FISHER, VICE PRESIDENT JULIE ROLLAND & LORD LIEUTENANT SARAH FURNESS

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RIP John Reid 5th March 2018: It is with great sadness that we record the passing of Charter Member John Reid on Monday 5th March 2018. John was a prime mover and founder member of The Lions Club of Rutland, serving nearly 43 years with the club. Over many years John worked hard to maintain the tradition and unique style of our club, and was recognised as the Guru of the Club Constitution. John was a loyal friend to many and attended meetings regularly until very recently; he could always be depended upon to provide sound, if not always easily palatable advice to the succession of Presidents that followed him. Along with Peter Jones and Peter Hems, John received his 40 year service award appropriately at the 40th Charter evening from District Governor, Alan Hall in 2015.

Club members send their sincere condolences to Renee and the rest of John's family at this time of great sadness, may he rest in peace.

JOHN RECEIVES HIS 40 YEAR SERVICE AWARD FROM DISTRICT GOVERNOR ALAN HALL IN JUNE 2015

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The Generosity of Rutlanders, March 2018: Following publication in the Rutland Times of images of cataract surgery in Nepal that had been supported by The Lions Club of Rutland, Kit & Judy Swinfen of Greetham in Rutland decided a generous donation to the project was in order. What prompted them to donate, simple, 85 year old Kit had recently had cataracts in both eyes removed free of charge via the NHS and seeing the plight of kindred spirits in Nepal, Kit & Judy decided they wanted to help. Everyone at Rutland Lions thank Kit & Judy for their generosity, which will be added to the fundraising effort throughout 2018 for this project.

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Rutland Lions Support Eye Cataract Camp in Nepal, January 2018: 

Their story is all too common in the developing world, an estimated 39 million people are blind worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Of these, around 90% live in low-income areas and 80% suffer from conditions that can be prevented or cured. The Lions Club of East Dharan in Nepal works tirelessly to organise cataract screening and surgery camps, and for as little as $30, someone's eyesight can be restored with a simple operation.

A number of Lions clubs around the world help the Dharan club achieve this by making fairly modest donations, and over the last two years The Lions Club of Rutland is pleased to be one of those clubs, and hopefully will continue to do so. The images displayed were taken from the most recent camp in the remote rural area of Rautahat, giving some idea of the people involved and the conditions under which the surgery is performed.

BEFORE, DURING & AFTER SURGERY

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Click HERE for a wonderful Thank You letter from Oakham CofE Primary & Parks School

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Rutland Lions in Rutland Living, December 2017: A super article all about Rutland Lions, what we do, and the fun we have doing it; click HERE for a good read.

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Silk Route Tombola, 22nd October 2017: Rutland Lions supported a new event, The Silk Route at Oakham Castle, with a silk themed tombola which raised £105. All funds raised by Rutland Lions go toward helping local individuals and organisations. The event was also an opportunity to promote membership of Rutland Lions, as well as the forthcoming Annual Fireworks display.

FUNDRAISING LION PIPPY WOODLEY IN OAKHAM CASTLE

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Lions International Peace Essay, September 2017: The following is the winning entry in this years LCI Peace Essay competition, from a 12 year old American boy, which nails it to perfection!

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Lions at Lands' End Families Day, 12th August 2017: For the umpteenth year in sucession, The Lions Club of Rutland ran the barbeque and cake stalls at the brilliant Lands' End Families day. A massive fun fair, three bands, face painting and other attractions are put on by the company as an annual thank you to their employees, employees families and friends. Feedback from Lands' End commented, "The day was wonderful, and as usual the burgers and hotdogs were favourites, but the cake stall was even better this year; thank you to everyone, we would not have our Festival without you, you are part of the team". Fundraising Officer Allan Grey commented, "As ever the Lands' End Day is great fun, and helps us raise much needed funds for deserving local people and organisations; we are indebted to Lands' End for their constant support".

PIPPY (centre) AND HER CAKE TEAM AT LANDS' END FAMILIES DAY 2017

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Lions Supporting Oakham in Bloom July 2017: Rutland Lions decided they would support the colourful Oakham in Bloom team in this year's competition, which is also being filmed by no less than the BBC for a future documentary about Britain in Bloom. Lion Charles Robertshaw procured three old wheelbarrows, painted them to match our large storage containers, and with the help of one or two other members planted them in readiness for the judgment day. Although still pretty colourful, they did have to survive a vicious hail storm less than a week before judging but were ceremoniously wheeled into place outside Oakham Castle the morning of 14th July.

ONE OF THE THREE RUTLAND LIONS WHEELBARROWS OUTSIDE OAKHAM CASTLE PROUDLY DISPLAYING THE CLUB CENTENARY LOGO

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Rutland County Show Sunday 4th June 2017: The ever growing Rutland County Show was again successfully marshalled by members and supporters of The Lions Club of Rutland. Guiding all manner of vehicles onto and off the site, managing the safe and efficient pedestrian access and egress from the site, as well as operating a wonderful Cake Stall, between 6.00am and 4.30pm was all in a days work. A representative group of members and supporters were once again hosts of the Rutland Agricultural Society for a wind down at the end of an exhausting day, well done to everyone who assisted.

BACK L-R: DAVID LOVERING, ROBERT BLOOMFIELD (RAS), ROB WILKINSON, MIKE CROSLAND, GORDON ROLLAND, PAUL MILLS, JOHN YATES, BOB LUCAS, ALLAN GREY

FRONT L-R: DAPHNE LOVERING, MARGARET HEATH, JULIE ROLLAND, MONICA COMPTON, LORNA GREY

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Virtual Easter Egg Hunt - 10th-12th April 2017: Around 80 family groups entered our Virtual Easter Egg Hunt over the three days it was held, entertaining over 150 children. The weather treated us kindly, and without exception everyone that entered said they enjoyed themselves. We have had only positive feedback from families; we also received over £70 in donations from you wonderful people out there, thank you. Although originally intended as a fundraiser, it was run as a community service event, allowing us to prove that the concept works. It worked not only with a smart phone as intended, but for those using the O2 network, it worked just as well with pencil and paper. When one lady was asked which network she was using, she replied, "Virgin"; the webmaster notes that she was the first Virgin that had entered the hunt.

This successful new event in the Rutland Lions' calendar was conceived by Fundraising Officer Allan Grey, led by Sue Hooley, and ably supported by Margaret Heath and several other members of the club. Thank you to everyone who came along and entered the hunt, and sorry to the last few families that arrived after we had run out of chocolate mini-eggs. Never mind we are planning to run the event again at Easter 2018, and we'll make sure more chocolate is available.

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MD105E District Convention Saturday 11th March 2017: After the grandeur of Belvoir Castle in 2016, the MD105E District Convention 2017 was held at Butlins Holiday Camp in Skegness. Attending on behalf of The Lions Club of Rutland were President Mike Crosland, Secretary Keith Primarolo and Lion Allan Grey. Lion Allan was attending District Convention for the third year in a row, is this a club record?

The Convention was chaired by District Governor Balvinder Sokhi, with key guests Past International Director A P Singh, and Past International Director Sangeeta Jatia, giving the convention a distinctly Indian flavour. PID Sangeeta spoke passionately about the role of women in Lions, and told convention that many women are ready for leadership giving their innate ability to multi-task, complimented by their emotional strength. PID AP, as he likes to be called, challenged everyone to continue to develop the brand and make it more relevant to younger people in today's technologically dominated world. He cited the incredibly popular IPL 20/20 cricket in India, still cricket, but a completely different product from the original Five Day brand, conceived not by a cricketer, but by a businessman, Kerry Packer. His message was that we need to look outside ourselves as well as within, to shape the future.

Re-districting featured large on the agenda, and convention voted by 66 to 1, to accept the proposal that MD105E and MD105C merge, and to put this proposal before MD105 2017 Convention in Blackpool. This proposal is seen as significantly better than that proposed by the Council of Governors, which was defeated at MD105 2016 Convention. After that it becomes quite byzantine, and beyond mere mortals to comprehend.

JUST TO PROVE WE WERE THERE, KEITH PRIMAROLO, PRESIDENT MIKE CROSLAND, DISTRICT GOVERNOR BALVINDER SOKHI, ALLAN GREY & PAST INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR A P SINGH

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Collecting for Marie Curie February 2017: Each year The Lions Club of Rutland supports the wonderful Marie Curie charity by collecting donations from members of the generous Rutland public, again this year outside Tesco in Oakham on Saturday 25th Feb. Marie Curie offer care, guidance and support to people suffering terminal illness and their families, enabling them to make the most of the time they have left, and hence Rutland Lions were absolutely delighted to have collected a total of £645 on their behalf.

LIONS MARGARET HEATH & DAVID THOMPSON SPORTING MARIE CURIE YELLOW & DAFFODILS

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Christmas Parcels November 2016: A massive thank you to shoppers at Tesco & Coop in Oakham and Coop in Uppingham this weekend, your generosity knows no bounds, you have donated well over 4,000 festive food items. Over the next week members of Rutland Lions will be delivering "Goodie Bags" full of the donated Christmas treats to a large number of deserving individuals in Rutland, as well as providing a large selection of Christmas items to Homestart, Spire and one or two other organisations who cater for people in need.

LION GORDON ROLLAND, PRESIDENT MIKE CROSLAND, & LIONS PAUL MILLS, MICHAEL GILLON, ROB WILKINSON, JULIE ROLLAND & SUE HOOLEY PREPARE TO DELIVER THE "GOODIE BAGS"

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Rutland Lions Welcome New Members November 2016: Always a great evening is when we are able to induct and welcome a new member into Rutland Lions, so an evening when we induct three new members is extra special. At the club meeting on 16th November 2016, President Mike Crosland inducted and weclomed Andrew Williams, and Pippy & Nick Woodley. Andrew was sponsored by President Mike himself, with Pippy & Nick sponsored by town Mayor, Adam Lowe. On behalf of all club members we welcome our three new members, hoping that they both derive great satisfaction from their membership of Rutland Lions and serving the local community. We also hope that all new members will bring bags of enthusiasm as well as some new ideas.

PRESIDENT MIKE CROSLAND (far left) WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS FROM LEFT, ANDREW WILLIAMS, PIPPY & NICK WOODLEY

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Rutland Lions Fireworks Saturday 5th November: Rutland Lions delivered another outstanding firework display at Oakham Rugby Club to a crowd estimated at over 3,000 people. Thank you to everyone who came along and supported the event, our major fundraiser each year. This and other fundraisers enables us to continue to support a wide range of deserving individuals and groups within the county of Rutland, and a few beyond Rutland.

AN AMAZING DISPLAY FROM 1st GALAXY FIREWORKS

LED BY BRIAN SKEVINGTON (far right), THE LIONS FIREWORKS TEAM

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Supporting Rutland Sailability Septemnber 7th 2016: Alongside the Commodore of Rutland Sailing Club, John Fothergill and High Sheriff of Rutland, Dr. Sarah Furness, our President Mike Crosland represented the club at the Rutland Sailability Supporters Day event. The supporters then toasted the launch of Friendship II, a Kinsman Class dingy refurbished via donations from Friends of Rutland Sailability.

PRESIDENT MIKE CROSLAND & FRIENDSHIP II

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Rutland Lions in Shed Show August 2016: Lions Paul Mills and Charles Robertshaw have come to the rescue again of Claudi Cockburn, a single lady with two adopted Guatemalan children with Cerebral Palsey. Some time back Lions were involved with the Rutland Rotary Club in assisting Claudi and her children to move house whilst renovations were carried out, this time Paul & Charles have fitted out a new shed as the children's own private play area. The work involved the addition of a ramp for their wheelchairs, several internal shelves, curtain rails, and most importantly a flagpole flying the Guatemalan flag, which can be raised and lowered as required.

THE SHED FOR CLAUDI'S CHILDREN THAT PAUL & CHARLES FITTED OUT (VERSION 2)

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Supporting Rutland Rotaract Family Support Group 8th July 2016: For the third year running the Rotaract Group met at Burley Road School for an evening of fun, food and song. For the third year the sun shone and there were many happy faces, and for the third year, Rutland Lions provided their now famous burgers and hotdogs as a service to this super organisation. The burgers and hot dogs were even more tasty than usual due to use of our charcoal BBQs, and second helpings were on the menu for many of the parents and children attending. Rotaract head honcho Dr Julian Barwell thanked the Lions and commented that these events should be cherished as they help bring the community together.

AN EVENING ENJOYED BY RUTLAND LIONS & RUTLAND ROTARACT FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

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Start of Rutland Lions Catering Season 2nd July 2016: The catering season got off to a great start with Rutland Lions bringing their tasty burgers, hot dogs and hot drinks to the annual Oakham Proms in the Park. On a cool evening even though many had brought a picnic, the smell and appeal of a hot burger was too much to bear, and washed down with one of the many teas and coffee sold, made the evening pleasantly profitable.

RUTLAND LIONS, OPEN FOR THE BUSINESS OF BURGERS

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Rutland Lions Welcomes New Members June 2016: As one of the final duties of his presidential year, club President Mike Cropper welocmed four new members into The Lions Club of Rutland. The induction of four new members, Andy & Michele Smith, Sue Hooley and John Yates, at the same time was a record in the 41 year history of the club. We hope they will enjoy their time with the club and along the way bring plenty of enthusiasm and new ideas. Over the full year three members left the club, Iain Reeves, David Kirtland and Nigel Campion, and so with Allison Greaves joining earlier in the year, Rutland Lions increased their overall membership by a net two members.

FROM L: ANDY SMITH, SUE HOOLEY, PRESIDENT MIKE CROPPER, JOHN YATES & MICHELE SMITH

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Celebrating the 41st Charter June 12th 2016: Over 50 members and guests have celebrated the 41st anniversary of The Lions Club of Rutland receiving its Charter in 1975. The Charter luncheon was held in the comfortable surroundings of Normanton Park Hotel with guests Sir Cliver Loader, former Air Chief Marshal & Immediate past Police & Crime Commissioner for Rutland & Leicestershire, and our very own District Governor, Paul Stafford, visiting Rutland for the 4th time in his year's tenure. The excellent lunch was followed by President Mike Cropper summarising a successful year, with membership rising to 38 members following our forthcoming AGM. Sir Clive then responded on behalf of the guests, regaling everyone with his stellar career in the RAF, from flying Harrier jump-jets, to becoming the Air Chief Marshal and operating at a national security and political level following 9/11. Last but by no means least, the ever effervescent Paul Stafford completed the speeches before presenting three "Together the Future" commendations, to President Mike Cropper, & Lions Julie Rolland and Allan Grey.

SIR CLIVE LOADER ADDRESSES MEMBERS & GUESTS AT OUR 41st CHARTER LUNCHEON

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Marshalling the Rutland County Show June 5th 2016: Along with a significant number of supporters, Rutland Lions took on the task of marshalling the County Show on behalf of the Rutland Agricultural Show. A total of 55 people parked all shape and size of vehicles, provided directions for visitors, managed access to the show, sold programmes, and sold cake, teas and coffees. The fabulous weather brought everyone for miles around to the show causing some traffic congestion but also providing a magnificent day for everyone attending. The inaugural Rutland Lions Bake-Off competition was judged by Sarah Furness (High Sheriff), Rob Persani (Rutland Radio), Julian Carter (Hambleton Bakery) and David Wood (Chairman of the Agricultural Society) and more importantly won by Grace Gray (Cafe Nero), who wins a meal for two at The Marquess of Exeter. This is one of the three or four big fundraisers for the Lions club, which this year raised a grand total of £2,300.

SOME OF THE LIONS & SUPPORTERS MARSHALLING THE RUTLAND COUNTY SHOW

BAKE-OFF WINNER GRACE GRAY WITH LION JULIE ROLLAND

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Supporting Eye Cataract Surgery in Nepal June 2016: Rutland Lions Vice-President Mike Crosland and Past President Allan Grey were delighted to present Lion President Sanjib Dahal from the East Dharan club in Nepal, a cheque for £300 toward their eye cataract surgery camps at their meeting on Wednesday. This is the second donation this year, and hopefully the start of a multi-district project in support of this much needed help. For as little as US$30, one person's eyesight can be saved. Lion Sanjib is aiming to raise sufficient funds to treat 500 people with cataracts in Nepal.

VICE-PRESIDENT MIKE CROSLAND, PAST PRESIDENT ALAN GREY, PRESIDENT SANJIB DAHAL

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Supporting The Likoma Trust, Malawi & Rutland Air Ambulance April 2016: At a meeting of Rutland Lions on 6th April, a donation of £1,000 to be made to the Likoma Trust was unanimously approved. Likoma is an island in Lake Malawi, and the community were greatly supported by former Lion, the late Brian McLester; Brian and his wife Maggie spent time on Likoma helping with projects. The island now has an electricity supply and hospital facilities, however they are in desperate need of a qualified electrician and medical training for their dental surgery. This donation will help significantly toward providing that much need support.

A second donation of £500 was also unanimously agreed at the meeting for the Rutland Air Ambulance. The donation will be earmarked for medial equipment yet to be specified.

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Providing Cataract Operations in Nepal April 2016: On Saturday 2nd April, in Guar, Rautahat, Central Nepal, Nepalese Lions have organised a Free Eye Cataract Screening and Surgery programme that will provide around 100 operations. These programmes are taken to rural areas of Nepal where surgery is performed in order to restore the eyesight of hundreds of poor Nepalese people. This programme has been jointly funded by Multiple District 107-O in Finland, Hornsea Lions Club in Yorkshire, UK, East Dharan Lions Club in Nepal and The Lions Club of Rutland. Our name will be proudly displayed on the programme banner on Saturday 2nd April.

Clicke HERE for more images of the Cataract Camp

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Lions District Convention March 2016: Led by President Mike Cropper, Rutland Lions sent four delegates to the Lions District Convention, this year hosted by the Duchess of Rutland, herself a Lion, in the magnificent Belvoir Castle. The convention is an opportunity for Lions from Rutland, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire to share ideas and initiatives as well as recognise and reward both clubs and individuals who have gone “the extra mile” serving their community. Unlike many charitable organisations, 100% of the profits raised through Lions fundraising activity goes toward humanitarian causes either locally, nationally, or internationally. The organisational overheads necessary to operate Lions locally and nationally come exclusively from members’ subscriptions.

LIONS JULIE ROLLAND, DAVID LOVERING, PRESIDENT MIKE CROPPER & ALLAN GREY AT THE BELVOIR CASTLE CONVENTION

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Helping Local Gardeners February 2016: Rutland Lions were delighted to be able to donate £300 to enable the purchase of gardening equipment for a number of local adults with additional needs. Along with their Mencap carer, Mark & Eddie are part of a team also comprising Rutland Lions Brian Skevington & Michael Gillon who undertake work for the Wildlife Trust in and around Rutland. As well as this, the equipment purchased will enable Mark & Eddie and a number of other less able adults to continue to develop their allotment in Stamford which they treasure; Rutland Lions send their best wishes to Mark & Eddie and look forward to a picture or two from the allotment during the summer.

LIONS MICHAEL GILLON (FAR LEFT) & BRIAN SKEVINGTON (FAR RIGHT) WITH MARK, EDDIE AND THE NEW EQUIPMENT

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Rutland Lions Supporting Marie Curie 20th February 2016: As part of the national agreement with Marie Curie Cancer Care, members of Rutland Lions were out shaking the collection tins at Tesco in Oakham, and once again the generosity of the Oakham public generated £695 for such a worthy cause.

VICE-PRESIDENT (& RESIDENT LEPRACHAUN) MIKE CROSLAND SHAKING THE TIN FOR MARIE CURIE

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Rutland Lions Host Meal & Panto Evening, 18th February 2016: This ever popular event is a night out for local adults with additional needs, hosted by The Lions Club of Rutland. After a hearty meal at The Railway Inn, over 50 guests from various care homes around the county transfered to see the RATS pantomime, "Linderella and The Travelling Circus" held at the Brooke Priory School Theatre. The vote of thanks was given this year by Rory and Daniel, to much applause from all the guests. Once again thanks goes to Lion Bob Lucas and his so-solid band of helpers who served food and drink and waited tables, and not forgetting of course Landlord & Landlady Shaun & Helen Jackson.

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Supporting Girls Rugby - February 2016: In partnership with Oakham Town Council, Rutland Lions were delighted to be able to support the development of girls rugby at Oakham Rugby Football Club with a donation toward the kit needed. So far there are 12 girls ranging in age from 10 to 15 starting to play rugby at the club. The girls are being coached by Jon Foster who has much experience coaching both boys and girls; Jon is supported by his daughter Laura. Rutland Lions wish the girls much success in the fast developing arena of women's rugby.

ORFC GIRLS RUGBY TEAM WITH LAURA FOSTER, JON FOSTER, OAKHAM TOWN MAYOR & RUTLAND LION ALF DEWIS, & ORFC CHAIRMAN SIMON HARRIES

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Press Release - January 2016:

Looking back with pride, last year was a milestone year for The Lions Club of Rutland, most notably completing 40 years of service to the local community. This was celebrated in style with a gala dinner in June attended by 140 people.

During the year the club was able to make a total of 25 donations totalling over £10,000 to local, national and international beneficiaries. Over £9,000 was donated locally with Rutland Music Hub, Riding for the Disabled, Rutland Sailability, Young Carers in Rutland (TOFU), and Oakham Rugby Club girls’ rugby receiving substantial donations. Amongst smaller donations, a number of young people received funds toward overseas projects, a group of 40 disabled adults were treated to an evening meal and a visit to the RATS panto, and shields were donated for local college prize-giving evenings. These donations were complimented with the distribution of over 250 Christmas food “goodie bags” to a range of deserving people locally. Outside of Rutland, Lions were able to make donations to The Nepal Earthquake appeal, where Lions provide water purification equipment, and also in Nepal, a donation funding a small number of eye cataract operations.

Looking forward with ambition it is the intention of The Lions to encourage a wider range of men and women of all ages into serving their local community, by creating a new, more informal, and more innovative group supported by the current club framework. The main aim of the group will primarily be to identify new service related activities, or generate new fundraising ideas, and then to carry them out in order to help improve the quality of life for individuals or groups within the Rutland community …….and to have fun in the process.

It is intended that this group would continue to meet socially once a month, but maintain contact more regularly via email and social media in order to manage their activities. Involvement in this group would be “no strings attached”, it would not require membership of the Lions Club, and no membership costs or fees would be levied; the only commitment would be time with the main aim of project planning.

If you are proud of living in Rutland and would like to “put something back”, then make a connection by getting involved in the informal gathering of like minded people which will be held at The Lord Nelson from 7.30pm onwards, on Wednesday 10^th February.

RUTLAND TIMES ARTICLE LINK

LION JULIE INTERVIEW LINK

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Supporting The Rutland Music Hub - November 2015: The Lions Club of Rutland are delighted to have been able to support The Music Education Hub for Rutland via a donation of £1,000 that has enabled the purchase of brass musical instruments for use in Rutland primary schools. Rutland Music Hub is a charity which supports the implementation of the National Plan for Music Education and was established in 2012. Its aim is to increase the music education and participation among young people in Rutland, providing access to musical instruments and teaching at a level comparable to education in sporting activity. In Year Five children receive 30 minutes tuition per week, increasing to one hour in Year Six for a ten week period of the school year. Any pupils who demonstrate a particular talent for the music are then offered further peripatetic tuition to help nurture their talent. Vice-President of the Lions Club, Mike Crosland visited Edith Weston Primary School to meet School Head, Mrs. Sharon Milner, and also witness a class of children learning the trumpet under the expert tutelage of music teacher Alex Crutchley. Vice-President Mike thanked the children for their enthusiastic rendition of upper C, whilst smiling for the camera. 

L to R:  MUSIC TEACHER, ALEX CRUTCHLEY; SCHOOL HEAD, MRS SHARON MILNER, VICE-PRESIDENT, MIKE CROSLAND; CHILDREN, KIALA, KEIRAN, MATTHEW, LUCY & BRAYDON

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Rutland Lions Reach for the Stars - November 7th 2015: The autumn weather kept us all guessing, but on the night it served up a warm, dry if breezy evening for the annual Oakham Town firework display. Held for the second year at The New Showground, over 1,500 people turned up to see two displays from 1st Galaxy Fireworks, entitled "Reach for the Stars", each accompanied by some stirring music. The displays certainly lived up to their billing and the consensus of opinion was of a great display, and great value for money. The rugby club bar and the Lions catering tent was kept at full stretch all evening serving up burgers, beer and hot-dogs, with soft drinks for all the many children of course. With the new Star Wars film now on release, the light sabres did a roaring trade, and sold out very quickly, and helped add much colour to the proceedings. Lions President Mike Cropper thanked everyone for attending the event, and made a particular point of thanking event sponsors, CS Ellis, Portess, Lands' End, Tim Norton, Simmons Optometrists, Dentith & Dentith, Gates Nurseries, Mecc Alte, Rutland Plastics & RPC, for their ongoing support. As usual the monies raised by this event will go to support a range of people less fortunate than most, and mostly within the Rutland area.

THE BEAUTIFUL DISPLAY, "REACH for the STARS by 1st GALAXY FIREWORKS

Click REACH FOR THE STARS for the full photo album of a successful evening

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Supporting Rutland Sailability - October 2015: Members of The Lions Club of Rutland were delighted to attend the launch of “Rutland Lion” at Rutland Sailability recently. The boat is one of an expanding fleet of over 30 boats operated by Rutland Sailability that provides the opportunity to sail independently for a wide range of people with disabilities.The Rutland Lion is a Hansa – Liberty model, single seater sailing boat designed to be exceptionally stable and unsinkable, ideal for both beginners and people with disabilities. Rutland Lions made a contribution of £1,000 toward the purchase of the boat, and will cover the cost of maintenance for the next three years. Rutland Sailability is based at the Sailing Club at Edith Weston, and is now into its 21^st year. It provides a sailing and social environment for both able & disabled people and has a membership approaching 250 people. Chairman of Sailability Trustees Martin Sutcliffe and Trustee Ejler Johansen welcomed Lion President Mike Cropper and Lions Paul Mills, Margaret Owers & Allan Grey, and thanked them for their ongoing generosity. A small amount of champagne was used to launch the boat, the remainder being imbibed by all present to toast the success of the Rutland Lion.

FROM L to R: TRUSTEE ROS MULHOLLAND-GULLICK, MARTIN SUTCLIFFE (CHAIRMAN of TRUSTEES, RUTLAND SAILABILITY), LION PRESIDENT MIKE CROPPER, TRUSTEE EJLER JOHANSEN

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Supporting The Mount Group for Riding for the Disabled: As part of their 40th anniversary celebrations, The Lions Club of Rutland presented a cheque for £1,500 to The Mount Group for Riding for the Disabled at Somerby. The cheque was received by Di Poyser who leads to group of volunteers who help between 50 & 60 disabled children and adults per week enjoy developing their horse riding skills. The donation will help replace obsolete riding helmets, as well as go toward a major project to make interactive their mechanical horse. The mechanical horse is a first step for disabled people new to horse riding, and can replicate all the modes of riding from walking, trotting and cantering in a safe and controlled environment. The interactive development will enable riders to experience real life riding situations on a large screen in front of them and allow them to learn to control the mechanical horse appropriately. Children from local schools such as The Parks School in Oakham and Birchwood Primary in Melton along with individual adults all benefit from the superb facilities available at Somerby. The Mount Group exists completely on donations from various organisations and individuals, needing over £20,000 per year to maintain the level of service they provide. Club President Mike Cropper commented that he was delighted to be able to make a donation to such an incredibly worthwhile organisation as The Mount Group.

CLUB PRESIDENT MIKE CROPPER PRESENTS A CHEQUE TO RDA LEAD VOLUNTEER DI POYSER

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Certificates of Appreciation: Following on from presentations of four Certificates of Appreciation at our recent 40th Charter evening President Mike Cropper has been out on the road presenting further certificates to two organisations that have given unstinting support to The Lions Club of Rutland over many years, namely Rutland Agricultural Society and Lands' End. President Mike presented the first of the two to David Wood, Chairman of the Trustees of the Agricultural Society at their recent AGM. Mike stated that without their support we would not have an ongoing home for our fireworks and the opportunity to marshall the County Show. We were also granted permission to use their premises last year to stockpile and sort our Christmas parcels prior to their distribution.

RAS CHAIRMAN OF TRUSTEES DAVID WOOD RECEIVED A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FROM LION PRESIDENT MIKE CROPPER

On Thursday 13th August President Mike visited Lands' End with your webmaster for a tour around the site and to present a Certificate of Appreciation to their ES Director, Mark Harris. Whilst there Mark presented The Lions Club a cheque for £300, part of their ongoing support of local charitable groups. Furthermore Lands' End will host our recruitment/information display for a period on in their reception and cafeteria.

ES DIRECTOR MARK HARRIS RECEIVES LANDS' END CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FROM LION PRESIDENT MIKE CROPPER

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Serving The Community - Rotoract BBQ Friday 3rd July 2015: For the second year Rutland Lions provided a complimentary barbeque for the Rotoract Group, parents and children at Burley Road Primary School in Oakham. The aim of the Rotoract Group is firstly to provide enhanced support and provision of activities for children with learning difficulties, i.e. over and above those that would normally be available at primary and secondary schools. Secondarily, they facilitate a support group for the parents of such children, especially those parents that might have just moved to the area, or those parents that had just learnt of their children's needs. The evening each year is a chance for parents and their children to meet and mingle in a safe and relaxed environment, and as usual Rutland Lions were delighted to be able to support this valuable group.

LION PRESIDENT MIKE CROPPER (far right) WITH ROTORACT CHAIR-PERSON PIPPA OWEN (centre)

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Recognising the Whipper-In Hotel: As part of their 40th anniversary celebrations, Rutland Lions have been recognising a small number of organisations that have supported them over many years, enabling them to continue to serve the community and share fellowship. One such organisation is The Whipper-In Hotel in Oakham, which after a shaky couple of years with a very fast turnover of managers, is now in the capable management hands of Lee Mogridge. To that end new President Mike Cropper was delighted to present Lee a Certificate of Appreciation for the hotel's ongoing support as the club's home base.

LION PRESIDENT MIKE CROPPER PRESENTS A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION TO WHIPPER-IN MANAGER, LEE MOGRIDGE

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The 40th Charter Anniversary June 6th 2015: 40 years to the very day The Lions Club of Rutland received its Charter, the 500th Charter to be awarded by Lions Clubs International, 137 people attended the 40th anniversary at a gala evening at Victoria Hall in Oakham. Three of the original members, having served the community for the full 40 years were recognised by the club and by the Lions District Governor, Alan Hall. The three, John Reid, Peter Jones and Peter Hems, were each awarded their 40 year service chevron and a Certificate of Appreciation from the District Governor, plus a pewter tankard from the club. The three celebrated by cutting a magnificent three tier birthday cake, later enjoyed by members and guests alike. 

WATCHED BY PETER JONES (on left), & PETER HEMS (on right), JOHN REID PROCEEDS TO CUT THE 40TH BIRTHDAY CAKE

Two signature donations were presented to The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, Laurence Howard by Rutland Lions President Allan Grey. The first, for £1,000, was donated to the Rutland Music Hub project, and will go toward the purchase of brass musical instruments in Rutland primary schools. The aim is that children gain increased opportunity to learn and play music, much as they would do sport. The second donation for £1,500 was for The Mount Group for Riding for the Disabled based in Somerby. This will enable them to replace their old riding helmets and also put money toward the automation of their Interactive Horse, enabling disabled riders to learn to ride in a safe environment before trying the real thing.

PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY (right) PRESENTS A CHEQUE FOR £1,000 TO LORD LIEUTENANT LAURENCE HOWARD FOR THE RUTLAND MUSIC HUB PROJECT

In recognition of the support of a good number of local organisations, without whom fundraising and service activities would not be possible, Rutland Lions President Allan Grey presented four Certificates of Appreciation. Oakham Rugby Club, Ford's of Oakham, Tim Norton Motors and Adams & Sons of Morcott each received a framed certificate and the sincere thanks of all members of the club.

ROBERT WHITE OF FORD'S OF OAKHAM RECEIVES A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FROM LIONS PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY

Note to Members: Access to all the photographs can be found by logging into the members section of this website and following the links

Click Charter Evening Press Report

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Winning the District Youth Opportunities Award March 2014: A year after winning the Lions District 105E Youth Opportunities Award, President Allan Grey was presented with the shield by PDG Lion John Kyte at the recent District Convention. No sooner had it been presented than it had to be handed it back immediately in order that it could be presented to the 2015 winner. It had been a complete mystery when Rutland Lions was asked to return the shield prior to this year's convention, and it transpired that the shield had never found its way to us in the first place. Fortunately a camera was at hand for the few minutes President Allan had it in his hands. The award is presented to the club that has demonstrated outstanding support of youth activities.

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LCIF Says Thank You March 2015: Lions Clubs International Foundation has recognised and thanked The Lions Club of Rutland for our donation toward the Ebola Aid fund. To view the acknowledgement letter....

click Ebola Aid

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Lions Supporting Marie Curie Cancer Care February 27th 2015: For the third year, Lions clubs across the UK have been supporting the Marie Curie Daffodil Collection, and Rutland Lions were no different. Staff and shoppers were incredibly generous outside the Tesco supermarket in Oakham, and around £500 was raised. Undoubtedly the unmissable headware attracted a lot of attention, which only helped the collection.

LIONS MICHAEL GILLON & MARGARET HEATH MODEL THE YELLOW OF RUTLAND LIONS AND MARIE CURIE

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Meal & Panto Thursday 19th February 2015: The annual meal and panto visit for nearly 50 adults with learning difficulties took place at The Railway Tavern and Brooke Priory Theatre respectively. As usual a number of Lions and partners helped serve a two course meal and refreshments which was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone; second helpings were in great demand. At the end Chris from Hawthorne Cottage thanked the Lions for their support and generosity on behalf of everyone else present.

PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY MEETS GUESTS AT THE RAILWAY MEAL BEFORE THE PANTO

CHRIS THANKS PRESIDENT ALLAN AND THE LIONS HELPERS FOR THE EVENING

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Tory Svennevik Says "Thank You, Rutland Lions" February 2015: Rutland Lions receive quite a few requests from young people asking for financial assistance to enable them to participate in voluntary work overseas. Tory Svennevick was one such young lady, who wanted to go to Tanzania with Operation Raleigh; Tory needed to raise around £2,000, and The Lions Club of Rutland were delighted to help her with a modest donation of £200. Tory explains:

Raleigh International is a charity that harnesses the passion and energy of young volunteers (aged 17-24), known as Venturers, to effect positive change in sustainable development. The programmes focus on providing access to safe water and sanitation, protecting vulnerable environments and building resilient communities.

The work is delivered through young people and is a collaboration between local communities, partners and volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds, nationalities and life stages. Raleigh International operates in partnership with communities, non-governmental organisations and governments in Borneo, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, India and Tanzania.

Since its foundation as a charity in 1984, Raleigh volunteers have become a global community of more than 36,000 people committed to building a sustainable future. Raleigh International Venturers initially answer Raleigh's call to action by fundraising towards the charity’s objectives and then they take part in the intensive overseas expedition itself.

I am extremely grateful to the Lions Club of Rutland for the generous donation. This helped me to reach the set fundraising target and enabled me to take part in an extraordinary and life changing expedition to Tanzania.

TORY TEACHING CHILDREN ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF BOILING WATER AND WASHING THEIR HANDS

For Tory's full report click Tory in Tanzania

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Our Latest New Member 4th February 2015: Always a good evening when we welcome a new member to The Lions Club of Rutland. On Wednesday 4th February 2015, we welcomed Keith Humphrey who was presented his welcome pack and pin badge by District Governor Alan Hall, our club guest for the evening.

KEITH HUMPHREY (centre) IS PRESENTED HIS MEMBERSHIP CERTIFICATE BY DISTRICT GOVERNOR ALAN HALL; ALSO PRESENT, SECRETARY CHARLES ROBERTSHAW (far left), MEMBERSHIP OFFICER DAVID LOVERING (left), AND PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY (far right)

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The Global Nature of Lions 5th February 2015: Email received by President Allan recently: "I am a friend of Dave Shank, an elderly stroke victim who lives on Glenwood Road in Rutland. I don’t remember the street number. His phone number is 508-886-9007. I am hoping you can steer me toward someone who will shovel snow at his residence. He is a veteran, if that helps. Due to the aftermath of a stroke last year, he has very limited mobility. The area to be shoveled is not very large…probably less than an hour’s work. Can you help or point me in the right direction? I can be reached at work: 078-544-2491. Just ask for Doug, Thanks, Doug Sanderson"

President Allan's reply: "Well Hi Doug, It's the phone number that gives it away, might we be talking about Rutland, Vermont. Unfortunately you've got Rutland UK, our smallest county, and several thousand miles away. Possibly the snow will have melted by the time we get over there. Can I suggest you look for Lions clubs a little more local; hope you find someone to help. Kind Regards, Allan"

Doug Sanderson's reply: "Hi Allen, Laugh out loud…I’m an idiot.  But thank you very much for your careful/polite response. I did a Google search for Rutland, MA, USA and went with the one that popped up. And, would you believe it, I work in Quality Control. Thanks Again. Wishing the Very Best, Doug"

Anyway, something learnt, they ask Lion volunteers to clear away the snow over there, could we do that here if it was necessary?

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Lions Christmas Tableau 2014: Once again Rutland Lions brought the joy of Christmas to many children and their families in Oakham & Uppingham. Around 60 members and friends of Lions turned out over the period from late night shopping in Oakham on December 8th concluding on Christmas Eve to ensure the magic lives on. A couple of messages received via our Facebook page testify that it certainly does:

"And I hope they realise how much magic they create! Seeing Santa was my favourite thing as a child, and now seeing my kids getting on that sleigh makes me burst into tears; they do such a great job!"

"Have to agree with everything you say Naomi; we have very special memories of Helen & Martin seeing Father Christmas every year, just need the grandchildren here another year to recreate the magic; well done to the Lions!"

THE MAGIC LIVES ON FOR BEV & DAUGHTER EMILY

THE MAGIC LIVES ON FOR EMMA & FAMILY

THE MAGIC LIVES ON FOR LIONS & FRIENDS ALIKE

Unfortunately not everyone sees the magic of Christmas, and want to understand just how Santa manages to deliver presents to all those children around the world. For the Engineers who walk amongst us seeking an explanation click:-

An Engineer's Analysis of Christmas

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Rutland Lions Christmas Food Collection November 2014: Over the weekend November 21st to 23rd Rutland Lions collected several thousand Christmas food treats, donated by shoppers at Tesco's in Oakham. The several thousand items are then sorted and turned into around 220 Christmas food parcels and then delivered by Lions to local care homes for the elderly, to individuals who wouldn't otherwise receive a Christmas treat, or to Homestart, a local organisation for families and individuals in crisis. This community service event is supported not only by club members, but by Tesco, who kindly allow us to approach their customers, and by The Rutland Agricultural Society, who have made their pavilion available for the storage and distribution of parcels.

RUTLAND LIONS CHRISTMAS FOOD COLLECTION - LION BOB LUCAS RECEIVING A CHRISTMAS PUDDING FROM ONE TESCO SHOPPER

RUTLAND LIONS CREATING 220 CHRISTMAS FOOD PARCELS

PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY DELIVERS A PARCEL OF CHRISTMAS TREATS TO ONE DESERVING LADY IN KETTON

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Rutland Lions Fireworks Display Saturday 1st November 2014: The annual firework display at the New Showground proved to be a spectacular success with over 2,000 people attending. The good weather drew the large crowd to witness two displays from Oakham company, Hi-5 Fireworks. Much preparation was required to get such a large crowd safely into and out of the new venue which went without a hiccup. As usual delicious burgers and hot dogs were on sale as well as Luke Skywalker light sabres which were so popular with the many children attending that they could have been sold twice over. Feedback was very positive with many familes letting us know how much they enjoyed the evening, and which will boost our charity budget by over £4,500, enabling us to continue to support the sort of individuals and causes identified above.

A LARGE CROWD WATCH THE SPECTACULAR RUTLAND LIONS FIREWORK DISPLAY

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Rutland Lions at Rutland Water Day Saturday 13th September: Once again Rutland Lions were well represented at Rutland Water Food & Drink Fayre, marshalling the entrance and running the Dine for the Lions Appeal. In total nearly £1,000 was raised and we were once again able to promote Lionism and Rutland Lions in particular, and ended with at least four people expressing interest in becoming a Lion.

LION STEVE JARVIS A& NATALIE REED PREPARE TO "DINE FOR THE LIONS" AT RUTLAND WATER DAY

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The Marriage of Gordon & Julie: For the first time in the near 40 year history of The Lions Club of Rutland, two serving members tied the knot on Wednesday 27th August at a civil ceremony at Oakham Castle. Gordon Rolland a Lion for 14 years married Julie Hargreaves a member for the last year. It is true that the romance started some time before Julie became a Lion, but undoubtedly the joy that they found serving their community together with Rutland Lions strengthened their love for one another. We all wish Gordon & Julie great happiness in their future together.

THE NEW MR & MRS ROLLAND at OAKHAM CASTLE

For more photos from Gordon & Julie's Wedding click The Happy Day

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Rutland Lions Catering Season Summer 2014: The catering season started on June 15th when Rutland Lions provided their delicious burgers and spicy hot dogs at the WW1 Commemoration event at Kendrew Barracks. Over 7,000 people visited this event on a cool an windy day. Following this we catered at Proms in the Park in Cutts Close on Saturday 28th June, an event organised by Oakham Town Council, and in support of Help for Heroes. This was followed on Friday 11th July by a community service BBQ in support of the Rotoract Parent Carers Group, a group of parents who's children have a range of disabilities, but mostly children with autism. This event was in the wonderful surroundings of Burley Road School, and was organised by Pippa Owen. Next up we were again invited to provide our BBQ fare at Lands End Families Day on Saturday 16th August, and lastly we offered a community service BBQ to another local Parent carers group for families with disabled children at Cutts Close on Saturday 23rd August.

Our catering events are either aimed at raising funds or providing a service for various charitable causes in the Rutland area. From the three fundraising BBQs this summer we have raised over £1,900. The photos below testify to the fun and enjoyment they provide both us and the community we serve.

ONE CONSUMER ENJOYING A BURGER AT KENDREW WW1 COMMEMORATION

PIPPA OWEN OF ROTORACT THANKS LIONS MARGARET HEATH, MARGARET OWERS & PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY

THE TEAM AT LANDS END FAMILIES DAY

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Rutland Lions Charter Lunch Sunday 22nd June: The 39th Charter Lunch took place at Barnsdale Hall & Country Club on Sunday 22nd June 2014. Seventy guests comprising members, friends and families, and guests from four other local Lions club enjoyed a convivial lunch following by a talk from new Rutland High Sheriff, Miles Williamson-Noble. As usual this was followed by the hand-over from old to new President. This year outgoing President Paul Brook wished incoming President Allan Grey a lively and enjoyable year.

OUTGOING PRESIDENT PAUL BROOK PRESENTS THE LIONS CLUB OF RUTLAND CHARTER TO INCOMING PRESIDENT ALLAN GREY

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Supporting Rutland Roleur: On Saturday 21st June, President Allan Grey visited the regular weekend meeting of the young cyclists at Rutland Roleur. Rutland Lions were delighted to have made a donation of £250 toward a number of first aid packs that the club can use at cycling events. Rutland Roleur are a very progressive group, and are led by their  passionate coach Neil Redman-Davies. We saw children as young as five cycling a circuit at Kendrew Barracks, raising funds for charity.

THE YOUNG CYCLISTS OF RUTLAND ROLEUR WAVE THEIR THANKS FOR NEW FIRST AID PACKS

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A New Member of the Pride: Rutland Lions welcomed new member Mike Crosland into membership at the AGM on June 18th 2014. Mike has lived in Oakham for over 40 years following a career in the RAF where he originally met his sponsor, Bob Lucas. This was followed in the 80s & 90s when they both worked for a technical publications company in Leicester. After sadly losing his wife last year, Mike is keen to get out and about and wishes to "put something back" into the community that supported him during his wife's illness. Welcome to Rutland Lions Mike, and we all hope that you find both fellowship and fun with us in the future.

PRESIDENT PAUL BROOK (L) WELCOMES MIKE CROSLAND (CENTRE)  WHILE SPONSOR BOB LUCAS LOOKS ON

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Farewell to Barton Lions - Saturday 14th June 2014: Thirteen members of Barton-upon-Humber Lions club started a two day charity cycle ride from the Whipper-In in Oakham this morning. They were planning to ride approximately 140 miles back to Barton via Lincoln, 80 miles Saturday 14th and 60 miles Sunday 15th June. They were sent on their way by a number of Rutland Lions, who wished them well as they raised funds for St. Andrew's Childrens Hospice. This is the second year of the event for the club of 26 members, having raised over £2,000 in 2013, and of course the event is a great team event and much enjoyed by all involved. Unlike our club, Barton Lions have mamanged to reduce the average age of their membership, so one day we must find out why.

RUTLAND LIONS WISH BARTON LIONS FAREWELL AS THEY DEPART OAKHAM & START THEIR 140 MILE CHARITY CYCLE RIDE

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A Pride of Lions at The Rutland Show - Sunday 1st June 2014: The Lions Club of Rutland were again tasked with marshalling the annual county show, this year at the new 150 acre showground. Three entrances, two car parks, and the pay entrance complete with electronic tills and bar code scanners required a team of 26 Lion members and quite a few supporters across each of two shifts. Out of nowhere came a beautiful warm, sunny day, and it seemed like the whole of Rutland descended on the show with a constant stream of cars and pedestrians from 8.30am through to late afternoon. Many problems were overcome with much hard work and a flexible team approach, and the day was rounded off with complimentary drinks and nibbles courtesy of the Agricultural Society, everyone feeling proud to have been involved and played their part. In conjunction with our Dine for the Lions booth, the efforts of everyone will have raised nearly £2,000 to support our various good causes.

RAISING OUR GLASSES TO A SUCCESSFUL DAY

Click The Longest Day for more images

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Message from District Govenor, John Kyte: Lions District Govenor John Kyte visited The Lions Club of Rutland on 16th April. The message from his blog the following morning reads as follows:- 

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Keith Tyers: It is with great sadness that we report that Keith Tyers, a member of Rutland Lions for many years, passed away suddenly on January 30th. Keith had always played a prominent role in the club, always ready to help others, and to "get stuck in" when something needed doing, or making, or fixing, not least our BBQ equipment with which Keith will long be remembered.

Members of the club send their sympathies to Sue and their family at this very difficult time. A service to celebrate Keith's life will be held at All Saints Church at 2.30pm on Wednesday 12th February, followed by a sharing of memories at Victoria Hall in Oakham.

KEITH TYERS

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Rutland Lions Host Meal & Theatre Visit: Rutland Lions invited over 60 guests to a meal and theatre visit on Wednesday 29th January. The guests, adults with various learning disabilities, all resident in local care homes, along with their carers, were dined at The Railway public house by new landlord and landlady Shaun & Helen Jackson.

Following the meal everyone decamped to Victoria hall for a specially written performance, "Five Go Adventuring" by the Rutland Arts Theatre Society. Unlike previous years, when the Lions guests would have attended the RATS public panto, this year the performance was written and performed specifically for this event. Lions President Paul Brook thanked RATS Chairman Jackie Sellwood, Vice-Chairman Joy Gregg, writer Sheila Plant, and character Lynne Hopwood for their continued support of this annual event, and presented Jackie with a cheque for £300 in recognition of all their hard work.

GUESTS OF RUTLAND LIONS ENJOY A MEAL AND GOOD CHEER

L to R: JOY GREGG. LIONS PRESIDENT PAUL BROOK, RATS CHAIRMAN JACKIE SELLWOOD, LYNNE HOPWOOD

For more photos click Can I Have Some More Please

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Rutland Lions Help Save Lives: In conjunction with The Karen Ball Fund, Rutland Lions have purchased a life saving defibrillator, costing £2,000, which will be located adjacent to Oakham Bowls and Tennis clubs. The location will provide protection for people attending both sports clubs as well as local residents within the area. At a presentation held at the Bowls Club on Tuesday 7th January 2014, committee member, Gail Robertson thanked both Karen Ball and Rutland Lions for their generosity.

The provision and location of defibrillator equipment is managed by a charity called Community Heartbeat Trust, and National Secretary, Martin Fagan gave a defibrillator awareness session to around 30 club members and local residents following the presentation. Martin informed the audience that currently someone suffering a heart attack out and about has only a 6% chance of survival, given that without intervention death will usually ensue within five minutes. The aim of Community Heartbeat Trust is to increase the chance of survival to 50% through the provision of life saving defibrillator equipment and awareness training. This unit is the 27th unit in Rutland supported by The Karen Ball fund; Rutland Lions donated in excess of £4,000 in 2013 toward providing defibrillator units within Rutland.

L to R: MARTIN FAGAN, NATIONAL SECRETARY, COMMUNITY HEARTBEAT TRUST; CHRIS WALLIS, RUTLAND LIONS COMMUNITY SERVICE DIRECTOR; JULIET BURGESS-RAY, KAREN BALL FUND; ROD GROOMBRIDGE, BOWLS CLUB PRESIDENT; ANNE MOUTREY, LOCAL RESIDENT; DEREK EYERS, KAREN BALL FUND

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Merry Christmas from Rutland Lions: Another year, another Christmas, and Rutland Lions have completed another tour of Oakham & Uppingham, bringing Santa to many children and their families. We would like to wish everyone, and especially those that support Rutland Lions throughout the year, a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

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Another Successful Christmas Food Collection: Members of Rutland Lions spent three days outside local supermarkets once again experiencing the generosity of the Rutland public, and many trolleys were filled with Christmas treats. Several hundred bags were then created and distributed to deserving individuals throughout the county. Many, but not all, of the recipients are elderly, and many live on their own. Other recipients are likely to live in one of the care homes that are located around Rutland. A bag typically contains between eight and ten items intended as a treat, something that they might not otherwise have had at Christmas, as well as a Christmas card from Rutland Lions.

MEMBERS OF RUTLAND LIONS READY TO DISTRIBUTE SEVERAL HUNDRED CHRISTMAS FOOD PARCELS

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Rutland Lions Welcomes More New Members: At their regular club meeting on Wednesday 20th November, Rutland Lions welcomed two new members after both had become involved with the club over the previous year. Monica Compton, who hails originally from Rochester, New York, but now lives in Oakham with husband Andy and three children, and David Ford originally from Grantham, now living in Uppingham, committed to uphold the Lions Clubs values and objectives and will enjoy both opportunities to serve their local community as well as fellowship from a club that is now 41 strong. Monica, who met Andy when he was on secondment in the US, moved to the UK in 1998, and currently works as a dietician. David is a retired businessman, having created three successful businesses in his time, and comments that his real claim to fame is that his mother was a school friend of Margaret Thatcher.

LIONS PRESIDENT PAUL BROOK WELCOMES MONICA & DAVID AS MEMBERS OF RUTLAND LIONS

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Rutland Lions Prepare for Christmas: Rutland Lions are all systems go for Christmas, the busiest time of the year for the well known local Community Service organisation. Following another successful firework display, the Lions are preparing for their annual Christmas Food Collection and Santa's Christmas Sleigh tour. Over 1,100 people braved the elements on Saturday 2nd November and watched two excellent professional firework displays at Oakham Rugby Club, which raised around £1,300 toward local charities and deserving individuals; the Lions would like to thank everyone who attended as well as the many local businesses who also provided sponsorship for the event. During this period the Lions were also delighted to be able to donate £700 toward the production of two music CDs for Rutland Reminders, the local group for dementia sufferers; the first CD will comprise a selection of general music, the second a selection of Christmas music.

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Rutland Lions Charter Luncheon - 23rd June 2013: In 1975 The Lions Club of Rutland was formed and received their charter from Lions Club International. Each year since, the charter is handed over from the outgoing President, to the incoming President at the annual Charter Luncheon. This year's event was held at Barnsdale Country Club, and the only thing missing was the incoming President Paul Brook; he had been laid low by a bug, and so the handover of the Charter, and the Chain-of-Office had to be re-scheduled.

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Rutland Lions at Lands End: Lions were invited to cater at the famous Lands End Families Day on Saturday 10th August. A two shift operation was needed to set up and serve for over six hours at the super event, alongside a full size fun-fare and live entertainment. The usual fare of burgers and hot-dogs competed with a professional food supplier, and "did good" with a profit of £750 being generated toward the charities and causes Rutland Lions regularly support.

Jackie Friar from the Lands End team passed on many positive comments about Lions food quality and service, and was delighted to invite us to the same event next year.

LIONS CATERING AT LANDS END FAMILIES DAY

for more images click GOOD GRUB

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Mystery Donor Offers Lion Fries: The mystery donor who offered Rutland Lions a deep fat fryer has now been identified!

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The President Has a Busy Evening:  It was a busy evening for outgoing President David Thompson. He had the pleasurable task of welcoming three new members to The Lions Club of Rutland, before handing over the chain of office to incoming President Paul Brook.

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Getting Involved with Rutland Lions: Involved is a bi-annual event organised by Leicestershire & Rutland Police and Rutland County Council aimed at highlighting the many aspects of safety relating to young people. Rutland Lions provided the catering again at this event in Cutts Close on Saturday 13th July 2013. The event was attended by hundreds of young people who needed food and a lot of fluid on a day that turned out to be the hottest of the year so far. Profits from this event will support the many donations made to local charities and deserving causes supported by Rutland Lions.

INVOLVED at CUTTS CLOSE

For more images of a very hot day click SERVICE PLEASE

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Rutland Agricultural Show, A Resounding Success Sunday 2nd June 2013: At last fair weather favoured the Rutland Agricultural Show, and thousands flocked to the last show to be held at Burley-on-the-Hill. Rutland Lions were contracted to manage the car parking, ticketing and pay-point control, and with 25 people across both morning & afternoon shifts just about kept the traffic flowing, and the visitors entering the show. Somwhere in the order of 2,500 cars were parked and at least 5,000 visitors entered the show between 8.30 am and 1.30pm, a fantastic achievement by everyone involved.

LIONS DAVID KIRTLAND, TIM HAWARD & MIKE CROPPER TAKE A QUICK BREATHER ON THE MAIN GATE

To ensure Rutland Lions had sufficient numbers to resource the event, help was at hand from a number of friends as well as six volunteers from Oakham Rugby Club. The show was also an opportunity for Rutland Lions to inaugurate our recruitment display, prepared by President David Thompson in order to showcase what we get up to regarding community service and fundraising activity. Our aim is to rebuild our membership back to fifty members over the medium term, and we were successful in attracting at least one potential new member from the day.

PRESIDENT DAVID THOMPSON PLUS RECRUTIMENT DISPLAY AT RUTLAND AGRICULTURAL SHOW

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The Phenomenom That is Royce Rangers - 15th May 2013: Rutland Lions were proud to welcome Chris Green, Chairman of Royce Rangers to their meeting on 15th May, and hear about the phenomenom that is Royce Rangers. Established nearly 40 years ago, Royce Rangers now provide youth football for over 250 young people from the age of around seven through to seventeen. Alongside the boys, they are currently in the process of establishing football for girls as well, and see the future membership heading toward 400, particularly with the growth of Oakham and the return of many army families to Kendrew Barracks over the next few years.

Royce Rangers very deliberately instil into their young members the ethos of Fair Play, Skills & Respect, alongside the development of their football where all teams have a coach accredited at FA Level I, and with a few at Level II. It is quite clear that this has a significant positive effect on the development of many young people in the town, and quite a number continue on past 17, supporting the club through coaching and other activities. Chris commented that they hope to find a way to charitable status in the next couple of years, as well as finding a way to include disabled people in club football activities. Chris summarised by concluding that Royce Rangers provide a certain "social glue", and prompted Lions members to identify ways in which we might continue to support them, and not just via donations alone.

Currently we fund the trophies for their annual awards evening, to which over 600 young people and their parents attended, and we have purchased training wear for one or two of their teams. Last year we provided catering at their Fun Day, as we will do again this year. It is hoped by both Chris and ourselves that we continue to nurture this relationship to mutual benefit.

CHRIS GREEN, CHAIRMAN OF ROYCE RANGERS

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Rutland Lion Support Rutland Conquerors: Rutland Conquerors are a local basketball team comprising a number of young adults with learning disabilities. After training under the Ball 4 All scheme at Catmose College for the last three years, on May 12th this year they will be representing their county in the forthcoming Special Olympics East Midlands at Loughborough University. At the last Special Olympics four years ago, three members of the team were part of the Leicester team that won a bronze medal, however, under the expert guidance of professional basketball coach John Smith, the full team of eleven players have now improved sufficiently to enter as a Rutland team, and of course need to be fully kitted out for the competition.

Manager, Heather Vanne, has been in contact with local companies and organisations in order to raise the necessary £600, and Rutland Lions were delighted to be able to contribute £100 toward their cause. Lions President David Thompson and Head of Community Services Bob Lucas, were at a recent training session in order to present the cheque to coach John Smith and his incredibly enthusiastic team, and to wish them the very best of luck in the forthcoming competition.

CHEQUE PRESENTATION TO RUTLAND CONQUERORS; FROM L to R, BOB LUCAS, JAMES ANDREWS, EDWARD SOUTER, OLI PHIPPS, PAUL ATKINSON, ALEX KEMP, COACH JOHN SMITH, MATTHEW VANNE, DAVID THOMPSON

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Marie Curie Appeal March 15th/16th: Rutland Lions supported the Marie Curie Daffodil Appeal this year, shaking the collection tins outside local supermarkets, and collecting a total of £952.63 in the process. Thanks to all Lions who gave up a few hours of their time for this wonderful cause.

RUTLAND LION CHARLES ROBERTSHAW COLLECTING FOR MARIE CURIE DAFFODIL APPEAL

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Lions Meal & Pantomime 13th February 2013: Another year passed, and it's reckoned for the 10th time, Rutland Lions invite over 50 adults with physical and learning disabilities to a meal and a visit to the pantomime. Excitement rises as Trevor and Brenda from the The Railway Inn in Oakham serve the meal. It's simple fare, but it's hot and there's plenty of it, two large sausages each, a yorkie pudding, lashings of mash, two vegetables and serious gravy, followed by three enormous apple pies and a bowl of custard big enough to swim in. It goes down well, so well in fact that seconds are called for by many guests, it goes right down to the wire, is there a sausage left, unfortunately no, 'cos a embarassed Mike Cropper is seen with half a chewed sausage in his hand, and he's not going to give it up.

At the end of the meal, a spontaneous chant of thank you Lions, thank you Lions, emanates from the guests, as they wait to make their way down to Victoria Hall where they will see Red Riding Hood, performed as usual by RATS. Lions guests on the night are from The Lodge Trust, Waterside, Willowbrook, Brooke House, Ash Cottage, Hawthorn Cottage, and the Gateway Club. Lion President David Thompson thanks his small team of helpers, and tells the guests that this evening each year is treasured as much by Rutland Lions as it is by them, and we'll all be here agin next year.

GUESTS OF RUTLAND LIONS ENJOYING THEIR MEAL BEFORE A PANTOMIME EVENING

LION ORGANISER BOB LUCAS & PRESIDENT DAVID THOMPSON with OLIVE AINGER AND SHIRLY THOMPSON SERVING APPLE PIE & CUSTARD TO THEIR GUESTS

To view more images from the evening click YUM YUM

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Lions President & His Valentines: At the annual Valentine Luncheon, Rutland Lions President, David Thompson recognised the contribution made by wives and partners to a very successful year. David presented nine ladies with a boquet of roses as a thank you for their support. The luncheon was attended by 55 Lions and their guests at Launde Abbey on Sunday 10th February.

With PRESIDENT DAVID From L to R: MARGARET OWERS, DAPHNE LOVERING, SHIRLEY ROBERTSHAW, LORNA GREY, KATE CAMPION, NATALIE REED, ANNE SKEVINGTON, DEBBIE WADD, SHIRLEY THOMPSON

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Rutland Lions Support Marie Curie Great Daffodil Appeal: Every March millions of people across the UK support the Great Daffodil Appeal by simply giving a donation to wear a daffodil pin. The money raised is vital in helping Marie Curie nurse terminally ill people at home in their final hours. Along with Lions clubs across the country, Rutland Lions will be supporting the Marie Curie Great Daffodil appeal over the weekend Friday 15th & Saturday 16th March by collecting donations outside Tescos in Oakham.

Further information can be obtained by clicking Marie Curie Great Daffodil Appeal

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Christmas Tableau Success: Despite some extremely wet weather the Rutland Lions Christmas Tableau succeeded again in bringing Santa Claus to many children and their parents in Uppingham & Oakham this christmas. The tableau is now a recognised institution, and it has again been fantastic to see the delight of so many children as Santa rolls up oputside their house bringing christmas music and a big tin of sweets, as well as confirmation, as if any were needed, that Santa is alive and well and with his trusty reindeer.

The tableau this year comprised eight mobile evening routes, two in Uppingham and six in Oakham, as well as three static events in Oakham. Many thanks to local friends, residents and ex-Lions who offered their help with the Tableau this year following our press release seeking support. Donations collected during the tableau totalled £3,800.

SANTA MEETS LOCAL CHILDREN DURING CHRISTMAS TABLEAU

To see more images click Christmas Tableau

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Rutland Lions Gear Up for Christmas Tin Collection: The Christmas Tin Collection will be held this year on Friday 30th November & Saturday 1st December. On Friday 30th, Lions will be outside both Tesco & Oakham Co-op, and on Saturday 1st, Lions will be outside Oakham & Uppingham Co-ops. The aim is to ask shoppers to purchase an extra Christmas food item which they donate to us as they leave the store. All the food donations are then collated, bagged up such that each bag will provide a nutritious meal for someone in need in Rutland. The aim will be to create around 300 "goodie bags" which will be distributed around Rutland the following week.

ALL THAT NEEDS TO BE SAID!

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Families Flock to Rutland Lions Fireworks Display: Rutland Lions held their 37th annual firework display at Oakham Rugby Club on Saturday 3rd November. After a wet morning, the skies cleared and the wind dropped to present near perfect conditions (apart from underfoot) for a firework display. Over 1,700 people, including a large number of family groups attended, enjoying two displays presented by Hi-5 Fireworks, as well as the usual burgers, hot-dogs and both soft and alcoholic refreshments.

Hi-5 FIREWORKS AERIAL DISPLAY

A profit on the evening of around £4,300 is forecast, and Rutland Lions would like to thank their many sponsors, as well as Oakham Rugby Club for the use of their ground and facilities. To see who supported Rutland Lions fireworks, click Sponsors. To see more pictures and read the press report click Rutland Times.

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Rutland Lions Sponsor Rugby Team: As part of their campaign to support junior sports clubs within Rutland, Rutland Lions have sponsored the shirts of the Oakham Rugby Club U15s team. The team were sporting their new shirts, with our logo proudly displayed on the front, before their home match against Lutterworth U15s, Sunday 28th October. Community Services member Mike Cropper attended the match to see Oakham record a fourth win of the season with an emphatic 54-0 win.

OAKHAM RUGBY CLUB U15s WITH LIONS SPONSORED SHIRTS

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Oakham Mayor's Reception for Local Volunteers: Rutland Lions were represented by Vice-President Paul Brook and his wife Fay at a reception at Oakham Castle on Thursday 25th October. Rutland Lions are one of the many charitable organisations that work tirelessly to support those less able, and in his speech, Mayor Alf Dewis recognised this and thanked all his guests and their organisations for their work.

VICE-PRESIDENT PAUL BROOK & FAY BROOK AT OAKHAM CASTLE

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Dine for the Lions delivers Hat-Trick: Our restaurant appeal, Dine for the Lions, has increased the profit raised for the second year running, this year realising £1,300 which will be ring fenced for donations to Junior Sports clubs within the Rutland area.

Nineteen local restaurants participated in the event which was run throughout September. Proceeds were boosted to the tune of over £300 by running a Dine for the Lions draw for Free Meals for Two at four local restaurants, at the recent Rutland Day.

The top performing restaurant was Barnsdale Lodge Hotel, where £137.00 was raised. Close on their heels were Marquess of Exeter at Lyddington (£134.15), The Potting Shed at Ashwell (£133.22) and Bakers Yard in Oakham (£121.37).

Rutland Lions would like to thank all the restaurants that participated in this appeal, most for the third year running. Each restaurant will receive a thank-you letter and a certificate for them to display on their premises.

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The President's Twin Donation Day: Rutand Lions President David Thompson chose The Lodge Trust and Rutland Reminders as the chosen charities for his year's tenure. David has been a keen supporter of each charity for some time, and on Tuesday 2nd October was able to present a cheque on behalf of Rutland Lions to both organisations.

The Lodge Trust, based at Market Overton, provides residential care and accomodation for 29 adults with learning difficulties from across the UK. In the morning, President David presented a cheque to Chief Executive, David Whitmarsh, for £1,650 for the purchase of three picnic tables suitable for visitors and residents alike, each able to accomodate up to three people in wheelchairs. They are located outside the excellent "Country Cafe", which serves delicious, value-for-money, home-cooked food and is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday between 10am & 4pm. Also in the cafe visitors can find a range of arts and crafts made and sold by residents of the Trust.

Rutland Reminders is a charity that provides stimulus for sufferers of dementia, through music, verse and other outside activities & visits. The home base for Rutland Reminders is The Brambles, part of the Rutland Care Village, where in the afternoon President David presented a cheque for £375 to David Lawrence, the Founder of Rutland Reminders for the purchase of a dozen comfortable chairs. Rutland Reminders holds two meetings monthly at The Brambles where between 25 & 30 sufferers, along with their carers and their individual support volunteers, can get together for an afternoon of song & verse.

LIONS PRESIDENT DAVID THOMPSON & COMMUNITY SERVICES CHAIRMAN, BOB LUCAS PRESENT THE LODGE TRUST CHIEF EXECUTIVE DAVID WHITMARSH WITH A CHEQUE FOR £1,650

RUTLAND REMINDERS FOUNDER CHARLES LAWRENCE ACCEPTS A CHEQUE FOR £375 FROM RUTLAND LIONS PRESIDENT DAVID THOMPSON

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Lions Perform on Wedding Video: The Lions team that catered at the wedding of Kathryn & John Sanders were included in the video of the wedding. To see these griddlers performing click Kat & Jons Marryoke

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Lions Complete Summer BBQ Season: Lions Catering team completed their summer seasons of superb Tesco Finest barbeques with events at Royce Rangers Fun Day on Saturday 1st September, and an Oakham Town Council event in Cutts Close on Sunday 9th September. These two events raised a further £800, and contributed to funds raised through our catering activities of well over £2,500 this summer.

Under the dedicated leadership of Roy (& Anne) Barnett, the BBQs have been re-established as a key fundraising activity for Rutland Lions. Thank you to all Lions and their partners who have helped person a BBQ event this summer, without your hard work none of this would have been possible. Thank you also to Tesco where manager Andrew Cockayne and Customer Service manager Bernice have worked hard to provide us with their excellent product suitably discounted.

CHEFS BRIAN SKEVINGTON, SHANE REED & KEITH TYERS RELAX AFTER SERVING HUNDREDS OF BURGERS & HOTDOGS AT THE CUTTS CLOSE EVENT

"photo & colour-popping by Georgie Rockman"

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"Tickets Can Be Purchased...........................is the cry regularly heard from Judith Mackie, Theatre Manager at the recently restored Corn Exchange theatre in Broad Street, Stamford. Last night, Wednesday 15th August, was no exception when Rutland Lions visited the theatre to hear about the ten year, £2.5M make-over, and be the first to dine at Stamford hottest new dining venue, Thierry's @ The Theatre Lounge. The restoration of the theatre has been a labour of love for a small group of determined people led by Michael Lee, Managing Trustee, along with Roger & Christine Bradshaw, David Simpson & Judith Mackie.

Over the ten years the theatre has remained largely operational, but with significant structural improvement including a new roof, new dressing rooms and a complete new theatre floor. As well, the original cellar has been converted into a very tasteful dining/event location. The theatre has built a reputation for the best dressing rooms in the land, and Des O'Connor has been heard to compare them favourably with the ones at the London Palladium. Increasingly artists are contacting the theatre, rather than the other way around, and Judith has an impressive programme of shows over the remainder of the year.

The theatre is supported by a volunteer team of over 100 people who are rota'd to support the programme, and after initial induction will find themselves undertaking most of the jobs needed to run a successful theatre. Judith is hoping to promote The Theatre Lounge as a dining venue, ideal for that intimate pre-theatre meal, or for a light-bite after a show. Lions were delighted to be the first to sample Thierry's hospitality, and to wish the team every success in their amazing adventure.

ALONG WITH NEW DISTRICT GOVENOR, MICHAEL PHILLIPS (far right), RUTLAND LIONS DINE AT THIERRY'S THEATRE LOUNGE, STAMFORD CORN EXCHANGE

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Rutland Lions Invited to Local Wedding: When Kathryn Sanders, and her husband to be John, were planning their wedding reception on a farm at Hambleton, they decided the most appropriate way to compliment the marquee reception and the ceileidh, would be for Rutland Lions to provide their renowned BBQ catering. This we did on Saturday 11th August, serving nearly 400 portions to the 180 hungry guests. To mark the occasion we cast aside the old green bibs for a rather more professional look as demonstrated below. With Kathryn & John providing the food, we received a fee of £350 for this event along with donations on the evening totaling nearly £130.

THE VERY SMART LIONS TEAM

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Rutland Lions Thank Tesco: Rutland Lions catering team set up on Tesco's forecourt for a BBQ on Saturday 21st July to thank Tesco for their support. Following the development of this relationship, Tesco have been sponsoring our catering activity by providing their Finest range of produce at a good discount, allowing us to increase our profit margin on the burgers and hot-dogs we sell. We hope they will continue this for our future planned events throughout this year. This helps us, and the positive publicity helps them improve their community profile a little. The new manager Andrew Cockayne, has been the prime mover in this development and we also thanked him publicly via the press coverage this event received.

TESCO MANAGER ANDREW COCKAYNE (3rd from Left) WITH RUTLAND LIONS CATERING TEAM

(photo courtesy of Rutland & Stamford Mercury)

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Rutland Lions Support Oakham in Bloom: The Oakham in Bloom sponsors board was unveiled Thursday 5th July by Frank Hinch, from Greetham Valley. The project, which cost £4,000, has as its centre piece the flower-filled peacock which now adorns the area adjacent to Oakham library. Rutland Lions was one of many sponsors, contributing £250 toward the project. Lions were represented at the unveiling by ex-President Nigel Campion, Mike Cropper & Bob Lucas, former and current Chairs of Community Service respectively.

OAKHAM IN BLOOM FEATURE & SPONSORS BOARD

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Rutland Lions Charity Catering Continues: Sunday 1st July found the Rutland Lions catering team on Burley Road car park, supporting the Town Partnership, and providing a tasty breakfast for car booters and members of the public alike. Lions had two professional chefs from Kazakhstan specially flown in for the event. Apart from Borat, Kazakhstan is renown among BBQ specialists as a centre of griddling excellence. Unfortunately Sausage Sam and Bacon Boy were more grizzlers than griddlers, see image below:-

SAUSAGE SAM & BACON BOY

However, although visitors to the car boot sale were thin on the ground, we received two very important seals of approval. New Lions President, David Thompson, was caught gorging on a double sausage bap, with lashings of tomato sauce. David was heard to comment, "you're all doing very well!"

The second seal of approval was received when Fido the Dog decided he was not going to be pulled past the Lions stall before sampling a sausage bap. When asked what he thought about it, he replied, "Sausages!"

FIDO (left) AND HIS OWNER

To ensure comsumer satisfaction, Lions are using only Tesco Finest produce for their BBQs, which Tesco's in Oakham are heavily subsidising, thus maximising the charitable profit generated from these events. To promote the support Tesco are providing, and the charities that are benefitting, Rutland Lions will be running a BBQ on Tesco's forecourt on Saturday 21st July, between 10.00am and 2.00pm.

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Lions Welcome New President: Rutland Lions, along with family, friends & guests welcomed incoming President David Thompson at their annual Charter luncheon at Barnsdale Hall Hotel on Sunday 24th June. The Charter luncheon is an annual event to recognise the ongoing membership of and affiliation to the Lions Club International. The luncheon this year was attended by the Director-General of the East Midlands region Robin Duke and his wife Rosemary, as well as the amazing Caroline Aston, raconteur par excellence.

OUTGOING PRESIDENT NIGEL CAMPION WELCOMES INCOMING PRESIDENT DAVID THOMPSON

For members, more information can be found on the Members Home Page

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Community Service in Action June 2012: Three members of The Lions Club of Rutland, and three members of The Rutland Rotary Club came to the aid of a lady in need recently. Now in her mid-forties, the lady in question, Claudia Cockburn, left home at 18, qualified as a teacher of Physical Education, and undertook travels worldwide…..but she always made it back to South Luffenham, where her parents house was the love of her life, as well as the centre of her social activity.

Still in the same house, and now a single mother, Claudia  cares for adopted twin daughters, both with cerebral palsy, one profound, one less so. Elsa Maria is in a wheelchair, whilst Josie is able to walk, but not too well; on top of this Claudia is currently suffering with back problems of her own. Gradually however, and with her daughters having now reached the age of five, it has become increasingly apparent that without significant adaptation, the one house she has considered home virtually all of her life is unsuitable for her and her daughters.

CLAUDIA WITH ELSA MARIA & JOSIE

After considerable agonising over whether to move altogether or have the house adapted, Claudia has obtained grants and negotiated an improvement plan with various agencies, and work on her house will begin shortly. Unfortunately this has necessitated moving out into temporary accommodation in nearby Edith Weston for around six months. With funds very tight, Claudia turned to local service organisations for help with the move, which is where the Lions and Rotary stepped forward. After contact with the Lions, President Nigel Campion explained to Claudia that only a small amount of money could be offered, but help with the move would be forthcoming.

With such an emotional attachment to her house Claudia was filled with dread over the move, but delighted with the offer of help. Claudia says she was amazed at how successfully it all went, it was all done in a day, and she would like to thank those involved for such a wonderful gift. Those involved were David Lovering & Brian Skevington from The Lions, Keith Crellin, Richard Simmonds & Chris Griffin from Rotary and Charles Robertshaw a member of both organisations.

Thanks go to all six guys who found time to serve their community at a time of need.

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Jubilation for Lions at Cutts Close Party: Rutland Lions provided sustenance for the hundreds of Diamond Jubilee party goers in Oakham's Cutts Close on Tuesday 5th June. The party offered the first opportunity this year to roll out our large scale BBQ units and provide delicious Tesco Finest burgers and sausage hot dogs, along with tea, coffee and soft drinks. If the proof of the pudding is in the eating, then the afternoon was a great success as there was a queue at the stall from the moment the first burger hit the griddle, to the moment we had to say there was no more left. Five hundred covers were sold and we expect to have raised in the region of £1,100 toward the Rutland causes and charities that the Lions Club supports.

QUEUEING FOR BURGERS & HOT DOGS AT RUTLAND LIONS BBQ

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Lions in Control at Rutland Agricultural Show: Over twenty members of Rutland Lions managed the car parking, admission and ticket sales on a day sent to test the resolve of the Great British Public. Torrential rain, low temperatures and gusty winds did not prevent a good turn out at the show at Burley-on-the-Hill, nor did it dampen the good humour of visitors and Lions alike. The ground cut up very quickly along the horse-box route and many had to be towed in/out by a couple of giant tractors. Steering pedestrians across the burgeoning muddy furrows being created became ever more hair-raising, but ultimately no one died, and that's a good measure of success; so congratulations to all the Lions who turned out and did a sterling job.

RUTLAND LIONS DID A STERLING JOB AT THE RUTLAND AGRICULTURAL SHOW; PRESIDENT NIGEL CAMPION HELPS MRS ANNE FORRYAN ACROSS THE MUD

For more images click Mud, Mud, Glorious Mud

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Lions Receive Donation from REME 16 Regiment RA: Each year 16 Regiment RA REME at North Luffenham undertake a charity event to recognise their patron saint, St. Eligius, who originated from Limoges in France. Led by Sergeant Matt Henry last November/December, 36 officers and men from the regiment undertook to swim, cycle and run the equivalent distance between North Luffenham & Limoges, a total of 635 miles. This was mostly undertaken around Rutland Water, with the swimming in a local pool; they even managed to exceed their target by 62 miles. In doing so they raised nearly £2,000, from which they have made three donations, firstly to BLESMA, secondly to The Royal British Legion, and lastly to The Lions Club of Rutland.

Presentation of a cheque for £427.64 to The Lions Club of Rutland was made on Monday 28th May at St. George's Barracks by Major Andy Bremner REME, OC Wksp 16 Regiment RA to Lions President Nigel Campion. Nigel told Major Bremner how delighted the Lions were to have been recognised in this way, and that the donation, along with all other donations to the Lions would primarily support people in need in Rutland.

MAJOR ANDY BREMNER PRESENTS CHEQUE TO PRESIDENT NIGEL CAMPION      

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Lions Visit Uppingham Cricket Club: Twenty-nine members of Rutland Lions visited Uppingham Cricket Club, Wednesday 16th May, as guests of chairman, Charlie Scott, and his team. Charlie gave a short talk headlining the development of the club and their new ground over the last four years or so, which has cost around £700K. This money has been raised both nationally through organisations like the ECB and Sport England, as well as locally through donation and club fundraising activity.

Rutland Lions, as part of their support of junior sport within Rutland, have contributed toward the development through two donations totalling £1,500. This has gone toward practice nets and a bowling machine (in picture below), both of which help provide a state of the art environment for coaching young cricketers.

CHAIRMAN CHARLIE SCOTT (R), THANKS PRESIDENT NIGEL CAMPION FOR THE SUPPORT OF RUTLAND LIONS

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Rutland Lion Elected Oakham Town Mayor: At the AGM of Oakham Town Council on Wednesday 9th May, Lion Alf Dewis was elected Oakham Town Mayor for the next year. Mayor Alf could be known as "Mr. Oakham", as he will be Mayor, Chairman of the Oakham Town Partnership and a serving Lion concurrently. In his first interview with our webmaster, Chairman Alf refuted suggestions that there would be any conflict of interest, commenting that he felt the three organisations were highly synergistic, in that they all existed to enhance Oakham and improve the lot of people in Oakham & Rutland. I am sure we all wish Alf every success in the coming year.

LION ALF DEWIS - MAYOR OF OAKHAM

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Presentation to Royce Rangers Saturday 5th May: As part of a continued support of junior sports clubs in Rutland, Chairman of Community Service, Mike Cropper represented Rutland Lions at Royce Rangers annual presentation evening. Whilst he was there he remembered he had to present a cheque for £250 for club trophies to Rangers Chairman, Chris Green, and even more fortunately, a man with a camera was there to record the happy scene!

ROYCE RANGERS CHAIRMAN CHRIS GREEN WITH MIKE CROPPER

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First Catering Event Falls Foul of Weather: Rutland Lions first catering event of the 2012 season fell foul of the weather, today Sunday 29th April. It had been intended to feed the large crowds who gather to see the start of the annual CiCLE Classic cycle race in Oakham High Street, delicious bacon and sausage baps, accompanied by tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. Lashing rain, winds gusting to 25mph and temperatures around 4 deg C, were enough to thwart all but the most valiant of spectators, but not the competitors who began the race at 11.00am and passed back through Oakham High Street again at 12.10pm.

THEY'RE OFF; RACE START BY OAKHAM MARKET SQUARE

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The District Governor Comes Calling: Lion District Govenor Robin Duke joined members of Rutland Lions at their meeting at The Whipper-In Hotel, Wednesday 18th April. Lion Robin commented that he was honoured to visit, and said he felt that he had the best job in the world, visiting so many Lion clubs in the East of England region. He said that no two clubs are the same, but all 60 clubs in his region live up to the Lions International motto, "We Serve".

Lion Robin informed members that the MD-105 appeal toward the Blind Veterans (formerly St. Dunstan's) had now closed, having raised a fantastic £116,800. For more information click Blind Veterans. Robin then mentioned two further projects that he felt proud about. Firstly the global project to plant One Million trees. Robin reported that world-wide a stagerring 8.2 million trees had now been planted and of the 1,250 he pledged for MD-105E, 4,900 had so far been planted.

Lastly, and of great interest, he mentioned the Young Leaders in Service project. Lions clubs are aiming to identify young people between the ages of 11 &18, who are serving their community. Robin talked about the Lincoln club where they had hooked up with an organisation that supported young unpaid carers, and went on to comment that Lions were aiming to get the silver and gold leaf awards recognised by the Scouting Association. The overall aim is to identify, recognise and reward these young people...............food for thought in our area! For more information click Young Leaders in Service

 

PRESIDENT NIGEL CAMPION WELCOMES DISTRICT GOVENOR ROBIN DUKE TO RUTLAND LIONS

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2012 Fundraising Plans Take Shape: Following a record fundraising year in 2011, Rutland Lions are preparing for another active year raising funds. The programme for 2012 is now largely planned, with an increase in our catering presence at local events, as well as taking on the management of car parking and payment at The Rutland Agricultural Show on Sunday June 3rd. To see the full fundraising programme click Club Projects.

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More About Rutland Lions in Rutland Living March 2012:  In a full page article in March's edition of Rutland Living, President Nigel Campion tells reporter Amander Meade about the history of Lions International and what Rutland Lions are all about. Click Read All About It to find the article.

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Rutland Lions Award Donations Totalling £1,400: At their meeting on 7th March 2012, Rutland Lions approved three donations following presentation by Community Service Chairman Mike Cropper. The first was £500 for "Warning Zone", a charity that enlightens year six school children about understanding risk, consequence of actions, peer pressure and personal responsibility. This is the High Sherriff, Peter Lawson's, chosen charity, and it was felt appropriate that we reciprocate the great support Peter has given us over the last year. The second donation of £500 was for re-stocking children's toys and craft items at the visitors centre at Stocken Prison. Finally a donation of £400 was approved to enable Market Overton Cricket Club to rejuvenate their junior membership, and run junior teams this year.

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RATS Panto Evening & Meal 16th February 2012: Rutland Lions hosted an evening meal and trip to the annual RATS pantomime on Thursday 16th February for local people with physical and learning disabilities along with their carers. Over 60 people attended the meal at the Railway Inn followed by the panto at Victoria Hall. Lions and their partners joined guests, served and waited tables.

PRESIDENT NIGEL CAMPION POSES WITH GUESTS

For more images of the evening click RATS Panto & Meal

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Record Breaking Year: Chairman of Fundraising, Lion Allan Grey, reported to the first club meeting of 2012 that it had been a record year for fundraising. Firstly we had the best ever Fireworks Display raising £5,800 and beating the previous best in 2008. This was followed by the Xmas Tableau, again a record year, raising a fantastic £4,300, and bringing the total raised throughout 2011 to £13,700. During the same period the club has donated £15,200 to charitable causes, around 90% of which has stayed in Rutland.

For full year fundraising navigate to Fundraising

For full year donations navigate to Community Service Donations

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The Rutland Lions Xmas Tableau: Every Christmas Rutland Lions Fundraising & Community Service teams get togther to bring the spirit of Xmas to the streets of Oakham & Uppingham. Santa Claus arrives in his sleigh playing Xmas carols and songs supported by a team of helpers. We are usually eagerly awaiting by children and adults alike, and after ensuring children have been good and enquired what they want for Christams, Santa hands out sweets to everyone.

SANTA CELEBRATES WITH SOME OF HIS ADORING FANS IN TRENT ROAD OAKHAM AT THE END OF THIS YEAR'S TABLEAU.

TO SEE THE XMAS TABLEAU STORYBOARD CLICK

I BELIEVE IN FATHER CHRISTMAS

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Off To See Santa, Courtesy of Rutland Lions: Lion David Kirtland was delighted to be able to secure a donation of £200 from Rutland Lions to support eight special needs children from Parks School on their annual trip to Peterborough to see Santa. Along with David, parents, carers and govenors, David waits at Oakham for the train.

PARKS SCHOOL OFF TO SEE SANTA

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Pacesetters Set for Another Ten Weeks: Pacesetters is a partnership project between Leicetershire & Rutland NHS, and the Local Sports Alliance (LSA), part of Rutland County Council. It has recently completed a ten week course to provide mixed sports for a range of disabled and special needs adults. The course has been run at Catmose College Sports Centre by professional trainers. To enable a further ten week course to be undertaken, Rutland Lions have donated £250 to cover the cost of the hire of the Sports hall and the professional trainer. At a presentation event today to mark the completion of the first course, Community Services Chair, Mike Cropper presented a cheque to the NHS/LSA team of Bernard Powell and Rich Kerr.

MIKE CROPPER PRESENTS A CHEQUE TO BERNARD POWELL, WITH RICH KERR & SOME OF THE PACESETTER PARTICIPANTS

CLICK CAKE FOR MORE IMAGES

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Royce Rangers Say Thank You: A young footballer, Harry Sargood, aged 12, heard about Dine for the Lions, and the aim to support junior sports clubs in Rutland. He wrote to Rutland Lions asking whether they could help his team , Royce Rangers Under 13s, who needed new lightweight jackets in which to train or warm up before matches. Lions were delighted to be able to donate £300 to cover the cost of the jackets. President Nigel Campion and Lion Keith Tyers were invited along before Royce Ranger's match against Barwell on Sunday 11th December so that coach Justin Lysandrou, Harry and his team could say thank you for our support.

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Greater Mobility for Marigold Ball: On behalf of Rutland Lions, Community Services chairman Mike Cropper has presented Rutland resident Marigold Ball with a new mobility scooter. This will help Marigold reach her local shops and join in with community activities. Marigold had been identified as a suitable candidate for the scooter by her carer, Bev Cardall, who recognised that Marigold was becoming increasingly isolated in her house. HomeCare Rutland's founder Gillie Loft explained that by providing the same carers, day in, day out, they are able to build up an effective relationship and understand peoples needs that much better.

FROM L to R: LION MIKE CROPPER, MARIGOLD BALL, NEIL MOVERLEY (VAR), GILLIE LOFT & BEV CARDALL

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Operation Xmas 2011: A major element of Operation Christmas has been delivered by Rutland Lions in conjunction with Rutland Community Spirit and Voluntary Action Rutland. Over 30 members of Rutland Lions found the Rutland shopping public in a generous mood outside the Coops in Oakham & Uppingham and Tesco in Oakham Friday & Saturday 2nd & 3rd December, collecting Christmas fare valued at around £7,500. An estimated 3,500 food items were packed into over 300 bags of groceries and delivered to individuals and families within Rutland needing a little extra support and recognition this Christmas.

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A LARGE CROWD ATTENDED THE RUTLAND LIONS FIREWORK DISPLAY AT OAKHAM RUGBY CLUB

Firework Display November 5th 2011: A large crowd of around 1,500 people attended the Rutland Lions Firework Display at Oakham Rugby Club on Saturday 5th November. The weather remained dry and the foggy conditions cleared so that everyone had a great view of the highly professional display by Hi-5 Fireworks. The evening started with a display primarily for children and continued with a larger, noisier display for all the family. Over 650 giant sized hamburgers and hotdogs were served by the Lions catering team along with hot and cold drinks. Rutland Lions would like to thank everyone who attended, Oakham Rugby Club for their support and a big thank you to all our Local Business Sponsors  who kindly supported the event. The event raised over £5,500 which will be used to support local charities over the coming twelve months. To view more images from the day click "I'd Like to View More Images Please"

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Rutland Lions Collaborate in Operation Christmas 2011: On Thursday 3rd November at the Rutland VAR Centre, The High Sheriff of Rutland officially launched Operation Christmas. This project aims to reach the vulnerable and lonely at Christmas with gifts of toys, food, and a little bit of sparkle. Operation Christmas is a joint venture between Rutland Lions, Rutland Community Spirit and Voluntary Action Rutland, who are working with local businesses such as Land's End, Kevin O'Brien Gas Services, and local and national projects including the Toy Soldier Appeal. As part of Operation Christmas Rutland Lions will operate their annual tin collection outside Oakham Tescos & Coop, and Uppingham Coop on Friday 2nd & Saturday 3rd December.

LION MIKE CROPPER REPRESENTING RUTLAND LIONS AT THE LAUNCH OF OPERATION CHRISTMAS 2011

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Jackson Stops - Dine for the Lions Top Performers: Dave & Laura Graveling of The Jackson Stops beat many other restaurants by miles in the recent Dine for the Lions promotion by collected a magnificent £184. The promotion ran throughout September in aid of junior sport in Rutland and across 26 restaurants raised a grand total of £1010. After Lion Chris Wallis presented a certificate acknowledging their excellent support, Dave & Laura thanked all their staff and customers for the enthusiastic way in which they supported this worthy promotion.

LION CHRIS WALLIS with DAVE & LAURA GRAVELING

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Rutland Day 17th September 2011: Members of Rutland Lions were out in force on Rutland Day at Rutland Water. Club members again organised the car parking for Anglian Water as well as running a Dine for the Lions special in conjunction with the Food & Drink Festival. In total around £700 will have been raised over the day for the fundraising account; thanks to everyone involved including three special ladies.

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Presentation to Cottesmore Amateurs 17th September 2011: Community Service chairman Mike Cropper presents a cheque for £1500 to Barry Suggett, manager of Cottesmore Amateurs Football Club U18s, and club Chairman, Allan Westray. This money along with many other offers of financial and physical help will enable Cottesmore Amateurs to resume home football matches after an arson attack destroyed most of their equipment recently. Unfortunately there will be no U18 team this season, but Allan stated that they are determined to have an U18 side playing in the floodlit league next season, and the support from Rutland Lions will help that happen.

ALLAN WESTRAY, MIKE CROPPER & BARRY SUGGETT

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Rutland Sailability Supporters Day 8th September 2011: Lions Charles Robertshaw, David Thompson & Brian Naylor represented members at Rutland Sailability Supporters' Day at Rutland Sailing Club. They were hosted by Phillip Ashton and shown what organisation and facilities exist for the disabled who wish to take up sailing. Rutland Sailability have around 200 members, half of whom are able-bodied and may become Helpers or Instructors; they are also supported by the majority of local Rotary Clubs and a number of commercial companies, not least Cummins Generators Technologies. Rutland Sailability need around £45,000 per annum to operate, but currently have over £20,000 in their bank account, so although a fantastic charity, they are not currently in financial need. The Lions day was completed by taking to the water and taking the helm of one of the Sailability boats. To see our boys click Sailability Supporters Day.

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The Beating Retreat 7th September 2011: Rutland Lions attending their regular meeting at The Whipper-In Hotel were treated to the music of The Minden Band of the Queen's Division at the 7th Annual Beating Retreat in Oakham Market Square. Historically The Beating Retreat was used to recall patrolling troops back to their castle after a days fighting, but is now ceremonial and organised by the Leicestershire & Rutand Branch of the Army Benevelent Fund. For more images click The Beating Retreat.

THE MINDEN BAND OF THE QUEEN'S DIVISION BEATING RETREAT

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Tiger Invades the Lions Den:  T he Lions catering team at the second OTP Car Boot sale on Sunday 28th August were taken by surprise when the Leicester Tigers mascot paid a visit. As a meat eater, he made straight for the barbeque, shoved Brian Skevington out of the way and cooked himself a "Skevy-Burger". The car boot sale was in aid of local sports clubs and the Lions catering has returned a profit of over £290.

LIONS DEN INVADED BY TIGER

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Involved - You Bet We Are! 20th August 2011: The Rutland Lions Catering Team were out in force to dispense over 300 hamburgers, 150 hot dogs, along with soft drinks, tea & coffee at the Involved event in Cutts Close yesterday. Involved was run by the RCC Community Safety Team for young people between 11 & 18.

LOCAL PC SUE COCKERILL SAMPLES OUR WARES BEFORE THE EVENT

for a couple more images from yesterday go to Photo Gallery (2)

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Rutland Lions Pledge Support to Local Football Club 3rd August 2011: At their quarterly business meeting members of Rutland Lions voted unanimously to pledge £1500 to Cottesmore Amateurs Football Club to help them restablish competitive football at Rogues Park after the arson attack that destroyed virtually all their equipment. Goal posts, nets, generator, floodlight swithgear and two ride on mowers were destroyed in the fire. Lions were one of many local organisations that have offered help, ours hopefully going toward re-establishing the floodlights for the U18s who play in a floodlit league.

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Press Report 28th July 2011: To read the latest press report in the Rutland Times about Rutland Lions click HERE

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OTP Car Boot Catering 24th July 2011: The Rutland Lions catering team were back on the road for the first time since the Fireworks display last November. The event was a car boot sale outside the RCC offices at Catmose organised by the Oakham Town Partnership, and raising funds in order to support junior sport in Rutland, one of our chosen themes this year. Over 50 car booters were in place by 10am, with the Lions providing delicious bacon & sausage baps along with tea & coffee to them and the public alike until 1pm.

One of the main attractions, aside from the car boot sale, was Filbert Fox and his Leicester City roadshow, where everyone was invited to sign a giant football shirt.

Filbert Fox joins the Lions Catering team for a group hug

For more images from this event CLICK HERE

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Rutland Lions Charter Lunch 26th June 2011: Over 80 Lions, family members and invited guests attended the 35th Annual Charter Lunch at Barnsdale Country Club on Sunday 26th June. Following a fine lunch Ex-Lion and past President Dick Maris entertained with a witty and slightly risque talk before being thanked for raising over £500 for the Lions by charging for attendance at his recent 80th birthday party. Local cricket & music broadcaster John Shaw followed Dick and gave an amusing talk about the planned ad libs of his fellow cricket broadcasters, as well as the benefits of supporting junior sports clubs through donation. John was presented with a magnificent carrot cake in memory of an earlier visit to Rutland Lions where such cake was sampled.

The official duty was carried out by outgoing President Brian Naylor. He confirmed that Rutland Lions had had a steady and very successful year, raising over £10,000 and donating over £7,000, mostly to local groups and individuals, as well as the Japanese Earthquake Appeal. As well as this the club had had a full social programme regularly enjoyed by club members. He then handed over his chain of office to incoming President, Nigel Campion.

Incoming President Nigel Campion

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Presentation to Uppingham Town Cricket Club 19th April 2011: Over the last 20 years Uppingham Town Cricket Club have been running youth cricket teams. They now have eight teams starting with the Under-9s through to Under-17s comprising nearly 150 young members. This year Uppingham Town have moved to their beautiful new ground on the Leicester Road having rented pitches from Uppingham School for many years.Hearing that The Lions Club of Rutland were making donations to support youth sport in Rutland, Club Chairman Charlie Scott wrote and requested support for two new mobile cricket nets. The Lions were delighted to be able to help and donated £1000, over 50%, toward the cost of the nets.

Lions Club of Rutland President Brian Naylor presents a cheque for £1000 to Charles Richardson, Uppingham Town Cricket Club Junior Committee Chairman.

Click Here for a further image of this presentation

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Easter Egg Appeal Update 3rd April 2011: Large chocolate Easter bunnies or equally large chocolate selection baskets are being delivered this week to the fourteen local pubs hosting this years Easter Egg Appeal. For further information about this appeal click the following link to the Club Projects page.

Mark Goode of The Old Plough, Braunston proudly displays the Easter Bunny he will raffle on behalf of the Lions.

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Wheelchair Presentation, 13th March 2011: The Lions Club of Rutland have purchased two new wheelchairs for Nicola & Daniel Skinner of Oakham who both suffer from the rare degenerative disease Friedrich's Ataxia. The donation of £2000, one of the Lions largest for some time, provided new made-to-measure wheelchairs from Ortomotion of Corby costing £750 each, along with other aids to ease their home living. The wheelchairs were specifically designed to maximise Nicola & Daniel's comfort.

Nicola, 23, was diagnosed with the muscle & nerve wasting disease 10 years ago and Daniel, 21, two years later. Mum Liz explained that the condition is inherited via a defective gene, but usually affects only one child in a family. Liz, and father Nick, heard about Rutland Lions' donations toward deserving causes and wrote just after Christmas. Lion Nigel Campion helped them apply for the donation which was recommended by the Community Services Committee and the Directors before unanimous approval at February's business meeting. Nick said the family were all delighted the process had run so smoothly, and thanked the Lions for their generosity and the speed of their response.

Lions Derek Eyres and David Thompson join Liz & Nick Skinner along with Nicola & Daniel in their new wheelchairs.

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The Internet & How It All Started: If you want to find out then visit the members section of our website and visit the "Club Newsletter" page.

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Easter Egg Appeal: Read more about our first fundraising event of 2011 by clicking this link, Easter Egg Appeal

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Press Report: To read our latest press report in the Rutland Times & Mercury click this link  Where Lions Cash Goes

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RATS Panto Evening: Lion Roy Ainger is pictured with Chris, one of 65 special guests from local support groups on the occasion of their meal & panto evening, Wednesday 19th January.

Take a look at the Photo Gallery to see a selection of our activities over the last six months.

 

Lions Clubs International is the world's largest service club organization with more than 1.4 million members in approximately 46,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas around the world.