At a recent meeting of the Lions Club of Morpeth £4728 was distributed to 35 local Charities and organisations. They had taken part in the Lions Club of Morpeth ‘Dickens of a Draw’.  

Morpeth Lion President, Richard Nash explained ‘For many years we have organised the Dickens of a Draw which enables local charities and clubs to raise much needed funds for themselves. With the Lions arranging the prizes and paying for the 12,000 books of tickets, it is an excellent opportunity for those wishing to fund raise during the festive period. We, as an organisation, are always looking for opportunities to help other local organisations to help themselves. We calculate that in total more than £100,000 has been distributed over the past 26 years. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank those who kindly donated prizes, as without their support it would not be possible for organisations to raise these much needed funds.  A big ‘thank you’ is also due to Lion Mike Nicholson who, for the past few years, has organised this project.

We have been asking the participants how they intend spending the money they have raised.  Some of the schools are intending to improve outdoor equipment, buy books for its library and help with school trips. In the case of Cleaswell Hill the funds will help towards their hydrotherapy pool project.  MS Research & Relief Fund will use the money towards their North Seaton project whilst both Morpeth Art Group and the Pantomime Society will be buying materials for their activities.’

Any organisation that has not previously taken part and wishes to participate in the 2019 Dickens of a Draw, which starts in September, should contact Lion Mike Nicholson on 07836582825.

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