MALMESBURY Lions have had to close down after almost 30 years because of a lack of members.

The club, part of Lions International, was officially closed last Wednesday after raising money for charities since 1976.

The branch which has just six members, decided to close because it is too small to fundraise effectively.

Former secretary Ian Mace, who has been a Lion for eight years, said he is disappointed that the action had to be taken but all recruitment efforts by the branch had failed.

He said: "I am saddened by the whole thing. I know other organisations in the town can't get volunteers and we have failed as well."

He said the group has tried handing out leaflets and appeals in the press. He feels it is a sorry reflection on the community that nobody has come forward.

He said: "Each member has gone to all the people they knew and the press have been extremely supportive but still not a member came forward."

Malmesbury Mayor Charles Vernon last week issued a plea to boost the number of council members after the town council was returned uncontested because only 13 of the 16 seats were filled.

He shared Mr Mace's disappointment at the level of community apathy.

He said: "It is a real shame, the money the lions have raised have been a of great benefit to local causes. It is a reflection of pressures of modern life. People have to concentrate so hard on their work they do not have the time for helping with local activities and we have experienced how difficult it is to get people involved.''

The Lions estimate they have raised more than £30,000 for good causes. The main beneficiaries of the cash have been the youth, the elderly and those in need on the district. Every Christmas the branch distributed hampers, and supported other charities such as Burton Hill House School.

Kaye O'Neil appeal coordinator at the school said all charities in the town would now find it hard to raise money.

"Most towns and cities have a Lions and a Rotary club and they all seem to be struggling.

"I think all the charities in Malmesbury are going to find it even harder to get money and to get people to do thing to raise money for us.

Mr Mace said memorabilia from the club has been retained and members will be keeping in touch in the hope that some time in the future the branch can be resurrected.