Harpenden Lion wins Merit Award

Harpenden Lion President, Mark Deacon, has won a merit award from Harpenden Town Council. The Town’s Award of Merit is a civic honour given to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the Harpenden community and is one of the Council’s highest forms of recognition for voluntary service, leadership, or long‑term commitment to improving life in the town - including the improving of wellbeing, inclusion, or the local environment. Five such awards were made this year.

The attached photos show the award and Mark receiving it from the outgoing Mayor, Beth Fisher. 

In accepting the award, he explained the origins and purposes of Lions clubs and highlighted the precept that “when Lions come together for the good of humanity there is nothing that cannot be achieved” – which is also mirrored in the club motto “We Serve.”  He listed some of the activities undertaken within the local club in the last year, which have included supporting the St Francis Hospice Christmas Tree collection, the local British Legion Poppy Appeal and the running of local tin-shakes for charitable causes – and noted the success of the latter which has resulted in Harpenden Lions making donations totalling £10,129 since December 1st 2025. These have included, as Mark explained, “many to local schools as part of our Youth Support initiative programme.” He promised that the club…. “will ensure that we continue to make a difference in Harpenden and the surrounding villages” and expressed the hope that he might…”welcome some of you in joining our Club – especially those who may find themselves with a little time on their hands.”

In reply, Councillor Jane Ray said:  “I was personally thrilled to see the continued hard work of the Lions Club in Harpenden recognised publicly. The positive impact the organisation has across the town and beyond is significant, and this award is a fitting reflection of the dedication and community spirit shown by everyone involved.”