July marks the end of the Lion year which means that it is time for the current President to step down and hand over the chain of office to the incoming President. This year Maria Coyle handed over to Ian Macaulay. Maria is one of the younger members of COGS and she became a Mum to a gorgeous little girl during her term in office. It is thought that throughout the whole District this is the first time ever that a current President has had a baby while in office.

The Handover, as it is called, marked two celebrations this year, one the change to a new President and second the Lions Centennial birthday. So instead of a garden party run by a member of the Club everyone went to Bletchingley Golf Club where a glass of Prosecco was followed by a splendid three course dinner and some fine wines. It was a very happy occasion and a particularly nice experience for those who had not attended one before. It was also a lovely opportunity to see Lion friends who had moved on and to welcome those who had lost their partners.

In her Handover speech Maria thanked members for their support and then handed out some awards. The new President Ian said that it had been a good Lions year and that it was particularly good that the Swimathon had been such a success and hopefully will be again in this new Lions year.

Many activities and fund raising events have already been planned and will keep the Club busy until July 2018. First is the Club’s appearance at the Fickleshole Horse Show in Chelsham on 6th August where the Club will supply hot food as well as hot and cold drinks. Then a couple of weeks later they will have the same goodies on offer, but on a much larger scale, at the Godstone Fete which the Club has for many years attended on the Bank Holiday Monday. This year the Club will be there again on the Monday but also on the Sunday afternoon where tea will be served to all those who are on the Green and who would like a cuppa. The reason for the extra event on the Green is to once again mark the Lions Centennial. So all are welcome to drop in and say hello to the Lions and to enjoy free of charge, a cup of tea and maybe a nice cake as well.

On 16th September we will be at Hurst Green with our candyfloss and popcorn stall. On Saturday 30th September the Club will be holding a Fun Quiz at the White Hart Barn (Godstone Village Hall) RH9 8DT. Teams will be of four and supper will be included in the cost of £10 a ticket. There will be a cash bar, so please do not bring your own. For further information or to get tickets please contact Tony Skilbeck on 01883 335945 or John Quincey on 01883 742680.