CHRISTMAS almost had to be cancelled for one charity group which is now urging others to get more involved in helping the community.

The Sherburn-in-Elmet branch of the Lions Clubs International has taken Santa on his sleigh to visit local towns and villages annually for about two decades, but this year's event almost faced the chop.

Ann Hudson is a member of the Elmet Lions, and said: "The sad thing because this has run for the last 20 years, but long-standing members are leaving now and membership now is down to two people, so we are desperate to continue the good work that the former members have done for all those years.

"We put out an appeal for helpers in the Sherburn community who've been absolutely amazing and we're able to run the sleigh thanks to volunteers. If it weren't for them, we wouldn't have been able to do it. It's absolutely fantastic the way everyone's pulled together to get it to run, and Christmas is not cancelled."

The group has previously raised money for charities including Martin House, Sherburn Visiting Scheme, Sherburn Gala, and local schools and hospitals.

Clive Barwell, zone chair of the Lions group, said: "Elmet Lions Club has been serving the community of Sherburn-in-Elmet and the surrounding area for over 20 years since its formation in 1994. During that time Lions have contributed greatly to the life of the community, not least of which has been helping with the magic of Christmas. For many years, Santa’s sleigh has visited lots of the North Yorkshire communities and this service has been appreciated by many hundreds of families.

"We really would like to continue running the Elmet Lions but without local people joining us this may not be possible. If you want to give something back to your community, not only at Christmas, but all the year round, then consider joining Elmet Lions.

"The Club meets at the Milford Hotel at 2000 on the second Monday every month, so why not go along and see how you can help? It’s not all work and no play, as Lions enjoy a fantastic social life alongside their community activities."

To find out more, contact Clive Barwell on 0800 074 8755 or email info@clivebarwell.co.uk