Oban's Charities Day postponed
Oban’s Charities Day has been postponed this year as organisers Oban Lorn and Lions Club struggle with a volunteer shortage.
The beloved community event, which for nearly 50 years has taken place in Station Square in June, has been pushed back until after the summer holidays.
Due to illness, major life events, and one volunteer leaving the area, the club has been left with only its president, vice president, and three volunteers.
With so few hands to do the work, it is impossible to deliver an event as big as Charities Day.
So, the Lions are calling on other local groups, as well as fellow Argyll Lions Clubs, to lend their support to ensure the event goes ahead.
A lack of volunteers is a common hurdle for many charitable groups in the area, and it is one the Lions hope to remedy soon.
Vice president Neil Owen said: “At this particular point we hope to recruit more members and expand again.
“But with the impending nature of Charities Day and arrangements which need to be made beforehand, we have to be realistic, we can’t do it this year.
“No corners can be cut and that includes personnel, planning and time.”
President Elaine Walton said: “Oban and Lorn Lions club will celebrate 40 years in 2026 and have run Charities Day for the last two decades, pandemics excepted!
“This year, despite excellent levels of recruitment, the Lions Club has had some members have to pull back due to life events, leaving just a half dozen active members whose average age is…well, let’s say retired.
“Preparing for Charities Day needs phone calls to suppliers, networking with those involved and affected by the event, and delivering the event involves a lot of activity on the day.
“It takes more hours and energy than we have available in the short term.
“We would love to have some new members of Oban and Lorn Lions Club in general.
“However if you just want to be involved in organising Charities Day that would be more than welcome.”
The Lorn and Lions Club hosts multiple popular events throughout the calendar, including the raft race, Santa’s visit, and public performances of Oban High School Pipe Band and Highland dancers. They also provide small grants to schools and other local clubs on request.
A public meeting has been organised at the Royal Hotel for May 14 at 7.30pm to discuss the club’s future. Everyone is welcome.
Anyone with questions about the Lions should email president.obanandlornlionsclub@gmail.com to find out more.
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