Community members distraught over Wisbech Lions closure
A local charity group in Wisbech that has been operating since 1972 recently announced its closure in June due to a lack of active members. The Wisbech Lions club, known for its fundraising efforts, typically raised around £10,000 annually for community causes through activities such as raffles, tombolas, and stalls at events like Armed Forces Day and the Rose Fair and Rock Festival in Wisbech. The news of the club disbanding has left its members devastated, as they fear a significant gap in community support for those in need.
Marilyn Batrick, who has served as president of the Wisbech Lions twice, expressed deep disappointment over the club’s shutdown. She emphasized the selfless dedication of members who contributed personally to cover the Lions’ £40 yearly subscription fee, ensuring that all collected funds directly benefitted those requiring assistance. Concerns were raised about the diminishing capacity of members to fulfill their voluntary roles due to factors like advancing age, health issues, and relocation away from the area. The looming question of who will step in to assist the community once the club dissolves remains unanswered.
Bill Batrick, also a long-standing member and five-time president of the Wisbech Lions, shed light on the unique practice of members paying to volunteer. This peculiar approach aimed to cover operational costs and insurance fees, guaranteeing that all donations received were channeled back into local causes. While acknowledging that the system might seem outdated to some, Batrick underscored its historical significance within the Lions Club framework. Once boasting a sizable membership exceeding 30 individuals, the Wisbech Lions now count only 13 members in their ranks.
Despite the sense of loss surrounding the Wisbech Lions’ closure, the organization’s legacy spanning over 50 years continues to resonate within the community. A spokesperson from Lions International expressed a mixture of sadness over the club’s dissolution and admiration for the impactful work it accomplished throughout its existence. The Wisbech Lions may be bidding farewell, but their contributions and service will not be forgotten by those they have supported over the decades.
In conclusion, the Wisbech Lions’ decision to disband serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by volunteer organizations in sustaining membership and community impact. The dedication and commitment shown by members like Marilyn and Bill Batrick exemplify the selfless spirit of volunteerism that has characterized the Wisbech Lions for generations. As the club prepares to close its doors, the community it served will undoubtedly feel the void left by its absence, underscoring the lasting impact of a charitable legacy that transcends time.