British Isles

Lions clubs of British Isles and Ireland were formed as a direct result of The Queen Mother visiting Toronto, Canada to thank the Canadian nation for their support which included parcels of clothing, toys and money donated for the children who suffered in the Blitz during the war. She was accompanied by Colonel Wyndham (President of the Waifs & Strays charity).

The 1st club to be formed was based in London, they received their charter (certified reconition of the formation of each club) in 1950 followed very closely by Brighton also chartered in 1950.

1959 saw the 1st National Lions day.

1969 our 200th club (Northampton) was formed.

1973 saw this figure rise to our 400th club (Wolverhampton). 

1980 was the Charter for HARLOW, and the British Isle proudly anounced our 700th club.

Today we have over 900 clubs working to help their local communities and national projects such as the recent flooding of the Lake District where Lions clubs helped with money, supplies and manpower. 

Our district (Essex and East Anglia)  has over 1000 active members involved in 65 clubs. In addition we enjoy the support of 100's of volunteers across the region who offer manpower for specific projects or functions. This can be an enjoyable way for people to help others by donating a couple of hours of their time without any long term commitments.  

International

In 1917, Melvin Jones, a Chicago business leader, told members of his local business club they should reach beyond business issues and address the betterment of their communities and the world. Jones' group, the Business Circle of Chicago, agreed.

After contacting similar groups around the United States, an organisational meeting was held on June 7 1917, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The new group took the name of one of the invited groups, the "Association of Lions Clubs," and a national convention was held in Dallas, Texas, USA in October of that year. A constitution, by-laws, objects and a code of ethics were approved.

Within three years, Lions became an international organisation. Since then, we've earned high marks for both integrity and transparency. We're a well-run organisation with a steady vision, a clear mission, and a long – and proud – history.