−−− BY LINZI DAVIES −−−
Every year the Leeds Lions club organise a German exchange trip for teenagers with disabilities. We have previously reported on successful visits to our city, and the Lions also send a group of our local teens to Germany too, on a biennial basis.
This summer, it was the turn of Leeds to host the teenagers from Germany for a week and as usual, they had a fun, action packed week, thanks to different Lions Clubs from the region who were each responsible for providing the teens with a day to remember.
The group enjoyed meeting the Lord Mayor of Leeds and the Lady Mayoress, Councillor Graham Latty and Councillor Pat Latty at The Civic Hall where the Sergeant-at-Mace showed them around the council chambers, followed by tea with the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress.
Knaresborough Lions Club took them rowing on the river, followed by games of crazy golf and rounders. Harrogate Lions Club took them to Horticap in Harrogate where they enjoyed a sports day and a BBQ. The teens were delighted to meet the animals at Yorkshire Wildlife Park thanks to Doncaster Lions Club, and they also enjoyed sailing with Otley Lions Club.
Leeds Skyrack Lions Club gave them an enjoyable day experiencing the wonderful sights of York and the host club, Leeds Lions took them all shopping before they went trampolining. This was followed by a very lively disco and delicious meal in the evening. The party loved their stayed at Hinsley Hall in Headingley.
Caroline Fields, President of Leeds Lions said “This was our 49th exchange and we have already been invited to take a party of youths from Leeds to the Sooden Bad Allendorf area of Germany next year. The trips are always hugely successful with everyone involved having a fantastic time.”
Caroline added “We are always looking for new members at Leeds Lions so, if you too would like to help us fundraise and, in turn, help local people, please get in touch with me.”
Tel: 0113 2886393 Email: cfields237@btinternet.com
