Peter is the New Pride of the Lions

Newbury Lions Club has been elected a new president to steer it through its half century of service. The club was chartered in 1970 and has been supporting people in Newbury, Thatcham and district for 49 years.

Now the chain of office has been passed to Peter Wood, who will steer the club through its 50th year. He said; "It's a great honour to be invested as president of such an active and delicate group of people whose aim is to make life better for those in need in community."

Mr Wood is retired from a career in the catering and hospitality industry and lives in Thatcham with with his wife, Rita.

Earlier in the investiture evening, Newbury Lion John Coleman was presented with a Melvyn Jones Fellowship - the highest award a Lion can get - by Lions district governor Ken Staniforth, who has unfortunately since passed away.

The award was made for Mr Coleman's long and dedicated service to the club. Mr Coleman leads the fireworks group which organises the annual display at Newbury Racecourse. He also built, maintains and tows the Santa sleigh on its many trips during December.