Ryedale Lions have just welcomed their first female member.

The group is keen to recruit new members to help with their many and varied community and charity projects.

Their first female member, Chris Carrack, was formally inducted at the May meeting.

Best known for helping Santa visit North Ryedale’s towns and villages every Christmas Ryedale Lions raise over £30,000 every year and also support a range of services and activities.

Part of the world wide Lions movement Ryedale Lions have been serving North Ryedale for over 50 years.

Lions President, Andrew Mansfield, said: “ We are delighted that Chris has joined Ryedale Lions and hope she will be the first of many ladies. Lions membership is open to anyone and everyone and we look forward to developing and evolving as new members join.

“We all know how important the voluntary sector is and Ryedale Lions are keen to continue and develop our contribution to helping make lives better and supporting our communities. This is becoming more difficult with our ageing core group of members and we need some new blood to ensure the benefits we bring are delivered.”

In addition to Santa’s Sleigh Ryedale Lions run a charity golf day, maintain a fleet of 40 mobility scooters and wheelchairs, provide labour at local shows and events , help specific individual needs for support and much more.

President Andrew added, “There is a monthly meeting to transact business but most of our time is spent helping and generating the funds to support those in need. We have now started a Friends of Ryedale Lions Group to enable individuals and organisations to help us on an ad hoc basis and see how they might want to get involved.”

“ We can help all sorts of groups and individuals.

"If you run a local charity or support group for adults or children who find themselves in some difficulty we may be able to help with a financial contribution, or in some more practical way.

"If you are an individual, or know someone who needs some help, again we may be able provide some funding, or put you in touch with someone who can provide support."

For more information visit the website www.ryedalelions.org or ring Membership Officer Will Oxley on 07739355951 for a chat