A member of Sidmouth Lions Club has been recognised for 50 years’ service with the organisation.

Dennis James, aged 93, joined his local Lions Club in Hertford back in 1973, and went on to hold most officer posts with the club including becoming President in 1977.

Following his retirement, Dennis and his wife Yvonne moved down to Sidford in 1993 where he immediately joined Sidmouth Lions Club and made many new friends. For the past 30 years he has played an active role in the club’s fundraising, community charity work and social activities.

In 2017 he received one of the highest awards bestowed by the Lions Club International organisation, the Melvin Jones Fellowship, in recognition of his dedication.

He has now received the Lions Club International’s Half Century Service badge and certificate of appreciation, personally signed by HRH Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh GCVO, who is the Patron of British Isles Lions Clubs. He was presented with the award by the Lions Clubs Vice District Governor for South West England, Richard Allen.

Dennis said: “For all those 50 years, I have enjoyed the social side and camaraderie of Lionism. I feel honoured that I have been able to do my bit to help both the Sidmouth and Hertford Lions Clubs to support the needs of the people in their communities.”

Anyone who would like to support the local community by volunteering to help  Sidmouth Lions Club or by joining the club is asked to call Lion Chris on 01395 577450 or email contact@sidmouthlions.org.uk