THE new president of Burnham-on-Sea Lions said he hopes to encourage new members to join the club and teach them about the work they do.

Outgoing president Doug Plume handed over the reigns to new president Phil Cooke at a special event in Sanders Garden Centre in Burnham-on-Sea on Sunday (June 30).

Members of Burnham-on-Sea Lions Club celebrated the club’s achievements over the last year at the event and handed over a cheque for £250 to Sanders Garden Centre to help them to buy a new defibrillator.

Speaking about his new role, Phil Cooke, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have been elected as the new president of Burnham-on-Sea Lions.

“I just want to make people aware of the amazing work that the Lions club does and want to encourage people to come and join us and help us fundraise for local charities.

“I would also like to increase our membership and make us better known in the area.

“Members of Burnham-on-Sea Lions work tirelessly throughout the year to raise funds for local charities and will stand outside with buckets whatever the weather to make that happen.”

Phil said the Lions will be hosting a number of fundraising events later this year and he is looking forward to starting his term as president

He said: “We will be hosting a number of groups through the Lions including our diabetes support group and I would encourage people to support these as much as possible.

“We will also be handing over some cheques to some Burnham and Highbridge based charities and it would be great to have the community supporting us.

“I hope I can help the Lions to raise more money for a bunch of great local causes and help to get more members through the door.”