SEVEN members of Clacton Lions – who have clocked up 185 years between them – have received long service awards.

Paul Martin, Lions’ district governor for East Anglia, handed the awards to the members at a special presentation evening.

Lions George Gardner, Colin Hawkins, Colin Newson and John Smock have each completed 35 years service – and are founding members of the branch.

Roger Smith, who recently transferred to Clacton Lions from a branch in South Africa, has completed 25 years service and Jim Burton and Alan Mercer have completed 10 years service.

“These members have clocked up 185 years of service to the local community,” said Clacton Lions spokesman Adrian Robinson.

“District governor Paul Martin congratulated the members on their hard work and service to the local community whilst also congratulating the whole club for their obvious dedication and hard work in raising and donating £10,000 to local charities.”