CAR washes, concert parties, dinners and summer fairs are just some of the ways in which members of the Furness Lions have managed to raise funds for good causes through the decades.

The biggest event of the year was generally the summer garden, craft and music fair held in Barrow Park.

A first attempt was made in 1987 and the following year saw the event expand to include everything from dancing and exhibitions to American football.

In The Mail, on July 5 in 1988, Lions' site manager Jack Johnston, said: "Last time was the first time we staged this event and we lost money because of the atrocious weather.

"But this time with about 2,000 people here it looks to be profitable with all the proceeds going to local charities."

The article noted: "Lakeland sculptor Adrian Newnham showed off his skills to transfix children who watched as he turned a lump of clay into a delicate living room ornament.

"And equally interesting and entertaining for both young and old were the sparkling dancing displays by dance troupes, separated by the superb musical talents of the Barrow Evening Townswomen's Guild and the big band jazz of Terry Turner's Band.

"Some 17 marquees housed festival attractions and one of the highlights for gardening enthusiasts was the appearance of Blue Peter gardener Chris Crowder to offer advice and answer questions."

In January 1992 the Barrow organisation celebrated its 18th anniversary by holding a concert party for 150 pensioners.

Entertainment was provided by Peter Goode and the Versatiles at the Barrow British Legion Club in Holker Street.

In June 1997 the Lions held a charity car wash at Halfords in Barrow and got the mayor, Cllr Margaret Martindale to give a hand — along with Walney members of the Cadet Force.

A highlight of the social year was the Furness Lions annual dinner, traditionally held at the Lisdoonie Hotel, on Abbey Road, Barrow. In April 1992 the guests included Dalton mayoress Val Phillipson.

Also there was Lions district governor Eric Fairbrother.

The 1993 dinner was attended by Barrow mayor Joyce Fleet and mayoress Phyllis Palmer.