Lions awards for young five

The Biggleswade Sandy Lions Club has given Young Leaders in Service awards to youngsters who have given up their time to serve their communities.

Last year the club invited children and teenagers to sign up to the scheme, which sees different awards being given depending on the amount of time the person devotes to voluntary work.

The gold seal accolade – awarded when a person has completed more than 100 hours during a 12-month period – has been given to Jamie Bate of the 1st Sandy Scout Group.

Further gold seals have been awarded to Biggleswade Sea Cadets Charlotte Warren, Matthew Wallace, Toby Simpson and Joshua Warburton.

The young people all attended a Lions meeting at Biggleswade Conservative Club on Wednesday (October 2) where the awards were presented.

They were awarded by club president Lynn Walker.

Roger Wolburn from the club said: “Lynn and the club offered them their heartiest congratulations in being the first of several young people in our area to achieve this prestigious award.”

The young people were given certificates from the club and also signed letters from former Lions Club International president Wayne A Madden.

In the letter to youngsters who have been given the accolades Mr Madden hailed the recipients for bringing the spirit of the Lions to their communities.

He said: “Through your hours of service you have exemplified the true spirit of Lionism by making your community a better place to live.”

The Lions Clubs International award scheme is open to all young people between the ages of 11 and 18 and covers a wide range of community service activities.

These could involve helping the elderly or children, parents and family members or the homeless.

Voluntary work could also include safety training, public health, taking on a leader’s role, education and helping a Lions Club.

The 12-month period can start at any time and a logbook is maintained while the work is being completed.

The club is always on the look-out for more candidates and anyone who would like more information can contact Roger Wolburn on 01462 814967 or see www.biggleswadesandylions.org.uk