BRYAN Holland has expressed his delight at taking over the reins of Bury Lions as the club's new president.

At the annual handover dinner, at which 26 members, their partners and friends attended, Lynda Pearson handed over the chain of office and gave a resume of her year in office.

Much had been achieved during Lynda's presidency, including Bury Lions winning the district and national awards as the most travelled Lions club and the district 'Peace Poster' award for the entry by Heather Barker of Bury C of E High School.

A successful year in fundraising and distribution included £2,500 for Tsunami Relief, almost £1,000 for Children in Need, £750 in support of Bury Hospice plus many other donations to local, regional and national causes.

Bryan (51), of Britain St, Bury, accepted the post of president and congratulated his predecessor on her work. He pledged to work at increasing the club membership, to live up to the Lion's motto of We Serve' by continuing service and work in the community, and to carry forward the message that Lionism is fun.