The Caterham, Oxted and Godstone Lions (COGs) enjoyed a sunny day of celebration recently.

Outgoing president, Tony Skilbeck and wife Brenda, hosted a lavish garden party lunch on Sunday 30th June at their home in Buxton Lane, Caterham.

The occasion marked the handover to Fran Pavely of Bletchingley Road, Godstone who has been elected as president for the Lions year July 2013-July 2014.

Mrs Pavely said: "I am honoured to be taking over as President of this very successful and happy Club and thank members for electing me. Lions is the biggest service organisation in the world of which we are a small part. We aim to help the local community in whatever way is required, from the smallest request to the bigger ones like enabling night flying for the Air Ambulance!"

Mr Skilbeck, a retired chartered building surveyor, said: "My year has really flown by but I have found it extremely rewarding and stimulating. Lions is foremost about raising funds and supporting deserving causes in our local community and this year has been no exception. One particularly happy project has been supporting the girls of Limpsfield Grange School on their Duke of Edinburgh endeavours. They were so enthusiastic and were truly inspirational.

"We will be carrying on the good work and enjoying a brilliant social calendar this coming Lion's year under new President Fran Pavely's direction."

Everyone enjoyed the spread of food and over a refreshing Pimms, Lions members and their partners enjoyed chatting and reminiscing on a successful Lions year for the club.

Mr Skilbeck, a fouding member of COGs, thanked the Lions and their partners for their support throughout the year and emphasised the prominence of genuine friendship within the club. He then performed his last duty as president by ceremoniously passing on the chain to the incoming president.

Mrs Pavely, who previously worked in press relations in Whitehall, has been president of the club in the past.

She and husband Iain became members of COGs over eleven years ago, while Iain was Chairman of Tandridge District Council.

COG Lions, formed in 1978, belongs to Lions Clubs International. It works within the community, holding fundraising events throughout the year for local causes in the Tandridge area. Each Christmas they provide food parcels for those in need in the vicinity. They also fundraise for causes, globally.

If you would like to find out more about COGs and the possibility of getting involved please call 0845 833 7852 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..