KEIGHLEY Lions Club has become "a real power for good", says its president Allan Clark.

He was speaking after being elected second vice-governor for the Lions District 105 North, which includes Yorkshire, north-east England and Scotland.

Mr Clark says: "I would like to thank my beloved club for proposing me.

"The club has become a real power for good in the Keighley district, thanks to the efforts put in by members.

"I'm proud and humbled by how we have developed and look forward to doing what I can to support our Lions family across Yorkshire, the north-east and Scotland in the coming year."

Tribute is paid by fellow members on his appointment.

Luke Maunsell says: "This phenomenal achievement is testament to Allan's long service as a Lion. He has made such a positive difference to our community through his voluntary work.

"All of us at Keighley Lions are proud of him and will offer nothing but support and assistance over the next 12 months."

Mr Clark this month attended an event in Parliament, and spoke to MPs about the work being carried out by Men's Sheds – a movement he's involved with – and how it's helping men with their mental health.

Keighley MP, Robbie Moore, says: "It was brilliant to see Allan in Parliament representing this fantastic initiative and speaking to MPs from across the UK about the work done by the Lions Den Shed, in Keighley, and others.

"Men’s Sheds really are a wonderful initiative and it is always great to see local people helping to put our town on the map."

In other activities during March, Keighley Lions staged their latest litter pick.

Over 25 bagfuls of rubbish were collected.

Councillor Maunsell says: "We would like to thank Keighley Big Local, the team at Hainworth Wood Community Centre – which provided lovely refreshments – Pickard Hardware for sponsoring some of the equipment, residents, councillors and of course our family of Lions.

"It was great to see the community spirit in full force."

The next litter pick is in the Denby Road area of Keighley on April 28. Anyone interested in helping should email media@keighleylions.org.uk

The Lions and Lions Den were also involved in a community tree-planting initiative.

They were joined by Rotarians and others – working alongside Shaun O’Hare, of YORGreen CIC – to plant more than 150 trees at Whins Wood, off Halifax Road in Keighley.