Don James a member for 30 years has been President twice, secretary and treasurer has seen many changes in the Club and writes: “In over thirty years as a member of the Club I have seen many changes in its size and type of member. Numbers have fluctuated from the lowest point of 18 to the present day membership of mid thirties. In the early days the type of member was a man with young children and a fund raising event usually turned out to be a family day out at fetes and the like where monies were raised whilst enjoying a picnic. Today the retired person has come forward and they now represents at least half of the total membership; in addition the nature of the service has changed with the emphasis on raising money rather than actual physical works such as cutting lawns, decorating, digging gardens or even shifting coal! Despite this the purpose of the club remains constant and its good works continue. I discovered quite early that helping others generates a “feel good” feeling within one’s self and the thanks and appreciation shown by recipients merely strengthens this. The enjoyment and warmth of the club has not changed: and the friends I have made and the sense of comradeship I have with my fellow lions and their families is a source of strength. The decision I made all those years ago was a good one for me”. Brendan Joyce - one of our recent members writes: “I am the most recent recruit of the East Grinstead Lions and from the very start, have been made most welcome by the other members to such an extent that it feels as if I have been with them for a much longer period. Whilst I am a family man with a young daughter, I also wanted to do some good locally and realised that by joining the Lions, I could do so without having to overly commit myself. The Club is very aware of the different circumstances each member may have. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal that even the business meetings (only one a month) can be fun as well as being essential to the running of the Club and planning our various activities including Fund Raising and Community Services. We also arrange a number of social events that are very much on the basis of people attending only those activities which suits their particular taste. These include rambles, snooker evenings, open air concerts, dinners, travelling suppers, quiz nights, trips abroad etc. I am very glad that I joined the Lions as not only do I feel that I am able to help the local community but it is also enjoyable on a social level and I have already made a number of friends which I believe will be long term”. Membership is by invitation only but if you would like to join us contact the Club Secretary -