August was a busier month than usual for Caterham, Oxted and Godstone Lions. The Club expected to be busy over the Bank Holiday weekend with the Fete on Godstone Green but this year they were invited to have their refreshment tent at another quite different event – The Fickleshole Farm Annual Charity Event. The farm is in Chelsham near to Warlingham and the money raised goes to the upkeep of the lovely little church of St Leonard’s, also in Chelsham. The event is all day with lots of show jumping events, dressage and a dog show. A fine selection of horses was put through their paces and most popular with the children were of course the Shetland Ponies.

The dog show was also very popular with families. As the day went on the crowds that gathered were in need of refreshment which started early with freshly cooked bacon rolls. Burgers and hotdogs were later on sale as were hot and cold drinks. It was a success all round, particularly as the weather was bright and sunny - as indeed it was for the Godstone Fete. Having had the two previous years’ events washed out this year was the exception.

Although visitors appeared to be slow to arrive on the Green it seemed that no sooner were the rashers of bacon sizzling on the stoves than the queues started to form. With the possibility that the hot dogs and burgers might be in demand earlier than usual the cooking of sausages was started, soon to be followed by the burgers. The pace of cooking was relentless and at times members of the Lions thought that they would never keep up. Much the same applied to the serving of hot and cold drinks and at one time the line of customers was so great someone had to politely supervise it. The usual attempt to buy goods with a £50 note was refused. In spite of having greater supplies of goodies than in previous years, everything was sold out not long after half past two.

A lot of work is involved in a day like the one at Godstone Fete and the Lions are grateful to non-members who lend a hand, most especially Enterprise Car and Van Hire who let the Club use one of their vans to transport all that is needed for the day and at no charge. The money raised at Fickleshole was just under £400 and at Godstone, after expenses it was just over £2,000, the highest for several years.

September will not be as busy. The Club will be taking part with their popcorn and candy floss stand at an event in Hurst Green. A Fun Quiz will be held in the White Hart Barn on Saturday 24th September and the Club will enjoy their annual skittles evening at the British Legion in Limpsfield.