A WOMAN who has spent years getting involved in community activities has been given a long service award.

The City of Durham Lions Club presented long time member Ena Gowland with an international centennial plaque for the support over the last 39 years.

The awards are being given out this year to celebrate the centenary of the organisation, which was set up with the purpose of encouraging people to help each other.

Mrs Gowland has been a key member of the Durham organisation, and has been involved with a many activities, including supporting one of its biggest annual fundraisers - a darts tournament, which she has entered teams in for the last 39 years.

Alvan Bailey, from Durham Lions, said: “Her level of participation has been extraordinary.