Formby Lions final donations to Formby

MEMBERS of the recently disbanded Formby Lions Club have made their final farewell, after donating their remaining funds to deserving projects in Formby. Back in July, Formby Lions Club made the shock announcement that they were going to close, just months before celebrating their 40th anniversary. The club revealed the unfortunate decision was due to a rapid decline in membership. In a bid to thank the Formby community for all their generosity over the past 39 years, which enabled them to raise a staggering £250,000 for local charities, the club have donated their remaining £2,000 to deserving organisations in Formby. Ron Marsh, a member of Formby Lions Club told the Champion: “When the announcement was made about the club closing down, we managed to transfer the remaining funds to our neighbouring Lions Club in Crosby with a request that the funds be spent on deserving projects in Formby. ”Some £2,000 remained to be distributed and it was agreed to donate £500 each to Formby Luncheon Club, Southport and Formby Riding for the Disabled, The Dove Trust and Sefton Children's Trust. “The ex members of Formby Lions Club considered that this show of support for the elderly, disabled, youth and children of Formby would be a fitting way of thanking all the Formby residents in the past who have helped the club in their fundraising efforts.” Jean Jones from Formby Luncheon Club said the donation will be used to help fund their forthcoming Christmas activities for the elderly, while Sara Howe from Southport and Formby Riding for the Disabled said the extra funds will enable them to provide additional sessions for their disabled riders.

Laurie Redgewell from The Dove Trust said the cheque would be put to good use in supplementing their fundraising events, in support of the youth of Formby and Phil Morgan from Sefton Children's Trust added that the money will be used to support children in families who live with various difficulties and help towards transport costs. At the time of closing, Ron Marsh said: “As well as fundraising projects the club has provided practical help such as hospital transport, running games nights for the residents of Leonard Cheshire, stewarding local events and helping with Merseyside toy appeal. ”The club raised in excess of £250,000 over our existence. All the money raised by members past and present has gone to charities primarily in the local Formby and Merseyside community. “We would like to thank the local community for all their help and support over the years.”