It was a day to remember in Hailsham town when hundreds of people enjoyed the Lions’ last Family Fun Day on Sunday in the sun to celebrate their 50th birthday albeit a year late due to the pandemic.
Olympic gold medallist and star of “Dancing On Ice” Jayne Torvill opened the proceedings before visiting every stall holder, signing autographs and posing for photos for nearly three hours. Jayne is also an honorary Lion in the Bexhill Club and is a huge supporter of the work the Lions do in our area.
After opening the event Jayne presented twelve-year-old Isobel Young with the Lions Young Achievers Award in appreciation for her outstanding contribution to the community at Hellingly Country Park for designing and building a dog agility park.
Hailsham’s Recreation Ground was buzzing with activity and laughter but was socially distanced with stalls, attractions and entertainment placed around the perimeter leaving plenty of space for children to play the many games provided, for the miniature train to carry its passengers back and forth, and for the public to browse safely around the fifty or so stalls.
Hailsham Lions president, Kathy Butler said “Our thanks to all the lovely people who helped make this day special for the town. To the charities that have supported us over the years, the caterers, Hailsham FM, Punch and Judy, fun fair organisers, and all other local groups, businesses and organisations. They came out in force to celebrate our 50th birthday. A huge thank you too, to the public who took the time to come along and join in the fun. It may be our last one but let me assure everyone the Lions Club will continue to help those who need us. We have handed over the event to Hailsham Active who will no doubt do a sterling job next year. Last but certainly not least, our thanks to Hailsham Town Council, Simon Marden and the Cricket Club for helping us make this day possible.”