At a recent ceremony at the club’s annual handover BBQ Lion Derek Canham became the 40th president of the Camborne Redruth & District Lions Club when he was presented with his chain of office by the outgoing President Paul Bray.

Paul thanked all the club members and helpers for their support and efforts in a splendid year for the club where donations to 32 worthy causes amounted to £7,940 and fund raising activities brought in £10,746 for the club’s charity account. He gave a very special thank you to Joyce Winn for allowing the Lions to hold their changer over in the grounds of her home.

Paul also presented the first vice president's chain of office to Viv Broadhurst who will become the first lady to become CR&DLC president.

The coveted "wooden spoon", awarded for most misdemeanours during club meetings was shared by LP Paul and by Lion Steve Young who has been the holder for the past four years.

Derek Canham comes from Rochdale, Greater Manchester. He now lives at Illogan Highway Redruth and joined the Camborne Redruth & District Lions Club in 2000.

He has been a Naval Warrant Officer, careers service, postman, maintenance supervisor and retired from full time employment in 1999.

He has been a Lion for 39 years and joined the Callington Club in 1976.

Derek is a Past President of the Camborne Redruth & District Lions Club and has held many posts within the club.

He has been presented with the International President’s Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his distinguish achievements in fulfilling the Mission of Lions Club International.

Derek is also the holder of another prestigious Lions award, the Mervin Jones Fellowship that was presented to him when he was with the Macclesfield Club.