DEDICATED members of Chorley Lions past and present are set to celebrate an amazing 25 years of community service with a celebration day gala this summer.

The Chorley Lions Club was set up in 1975 by charter member Jack Edwards, Arnold Welch and the late Dennis Palmer, to name just a few.

In those days, money was raised by selling black puddings, sometimes more than 1,000 in just one Saturday afternoon!

Now however, funds are raised in a variety of ways, including the annual bonfire at Chorley's Astley Park, swimarathon, race nights and casino nights.

And to mark Chorley Lions' achievements over the past 25 years, members have organised a celebration at the Inn on the Park, Astley Village, on Saturday, May 13.

Also to mark the 25 years of loyal service, the organisation has given a tree to Chorley and the surrounding districts -- to be planted later in the year at Astley Park.

Yvonne Scott, Chorley Lions' publicity officer, said: "Over the past 25 years, the members may have changed, but their dedication has never faltered.

"The members today still stand by the Lions' motto, 'We Serve', and this is as strong today as it was 25 years ago."

She added: "There are more than 42,000 Lions clubs in more than 180 countries of the world, and Chorley is lucky to have one such club.

"We would like past presidents and past members to join us in our special event in May. If you would like to attend, please phone Lion president, Peter Firman, on 01254 832238."

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