Armagh Lions share £16,000 from this year’s fundraising with three great causes

by
Tanya Fowles, Local Democracy Reporter
November 27, 2023

Armagh Lions share out £16,000 from this year's fundraising events. Members are joined by representatives from each of the causes involved as well as supporters and participants.

Armagh Lions Club have handed over a combined total of £16,000 gathered from this year’s fundraising events.

During an informal evening at Armagh Rugby Club members were joined by those who have assisted in helping raise funds through various events including the Festival of Motorsport in Loughgall Country Park in May.

Guests, supporters and members handed over £10,000 to the NI Air Ambulance as well as £3,000 each to Lough Neagh Search & Rescue and Angel Eyes (for children with sight impairment).

Lions President David Elliott said: “It was a wonderful end to this year’s fundraising activities. It is important to stress it is those who support Armagh Lions Club in our ventures who make these donations possible. We simply cannot function without that support and we are extremely grateful to each and every person who puts their faith in us to deliver.”

David continued: “Particular thanks to Mark Kelly and his amazing team from JPCC who just seem to make the Festival of Motorsport run like clockwork. We don’t know how they do it, they just do. Their unfailing support is invaluable. Although thanks to Barry Scott and family for the Digger Challenge which is now a favourite fixture as well as Campbell Fuels for their generous prizes Also the team from NI Lawnmower Racing who really added a great new angle and much entertainment.

Liz McCarragher from NI Air Ambulance receives a cheque for £10,000 from Armagh Lions Club

“Thanks also to longstanding friends of the club, Mr and Mrs Thomas Gilpin of Gilfresh, Armagh City Rugby Club for their kindness and hospitality. Loughgall Country Park and staff for all they do at the Festival and of course Joanne and her wonderful staff at the Hole in the Wall, which is our Lion’s Den. Finally to the public who support us, year-in, year-out a huge thank you and we hope you are proud of what you have helped achieve.”

Armagh Lions next event will be the annual Heat or Eat campaign in conjunction with St Vincent de Paul and Armagh Food Bank, in the run up to Christmas. More details to follow.