A Norfolk Lions Club has announced it will be closing at the end of the month after 42 years as a result of reduced membership and fundraising.
Downham Market Lions Club made the decision to close the group after a reduced and ageing membership of six struggled to continue to raise funds to "fulfil their objective of helping those less fortunate than themselves".
The club, which was formed in 1977 and chartered on March 10, 1978, was set up to help the local community by providing financial and practical support to those in need.
Club president John Fox said over the years many activities had taken place to serve and support causes in the area, including a fundraising tandem ride to Downham Market's twin town of Civray, in France, another cycle ride on a vintage 'boneshaker' to King’s Lynn and organising and coordinating the Christmas Lights Switch-on and Santa in his Grotto for several years.
Mr Fox added that it was difficult to know how much has been raised over the years but said the club has used around £65,000 to help those in need over the past 12 years.
He said: "The members would all agree that little is more heart-warming than to be able to take an elderly couple on a holiday, to present a mobility aid to a disabled child in need or to donate equipment to a needy cause.
"The years have seen many such events and often not a dry eye around.
"There have also been times, such as providing the fire service with a thermal imaging camera or supplying the first publicly available defibrillator to the people of Downham Market, when we know that lives will be saved as a result of the fundraising and donations.
"All these and many more ways of helping have been made possible by the ongoing support of the local businesses and members of the public with their support of events and donations through the likes of bucket collections.
"The Lions Club members thank everyone for their support and generosity over the years. Also a special thanks goes to those who have been supporters of the Lions Draw Club taking part in the monthly draws."
Mr Fox is encouraging people to support other Lions Clubs offering their services in the other places.
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