TWO long-serving community fundraisers have been honoured for their years of service.

Michael Briscombe and Alvan Bailey, who are both members of Durham Lions Club, were awarded long service awards by vice district governor Sue Barron at an event to celebrate the 49th anniversary of their charter.

They were both given the Melvin Jones Fellow Award (MJF), which is the Lions’ highest award, made to honour members who have made significant contributions in giving service to their community.

Mr Briscombe, who has been a member of the service organisation for almost 30 years, is a former club president and has maintained his membership in Durham despite moving to Ripon.

The prolific fundraiser has been involved in all sorts of events, from organising tombolas and raffles to helping with bucket collections, race nights and other sponsored events.

Mr Bailey, who first joined Durham Lions in the 1970s, returned to the organisation in 2009 after taking a break for work.

Also a former club president, he now works as its administration manager and takes part in fundraising activities.

He said: "The most pleasing aspect of these awards is that they were arranged and voted for by their fellow club members, who are in the best position to make a judgement on their worthiness for such a prestigious award."