Members of Newquay Towan Blystra Lions were honoured to be invited to a special BBQ event, to help celebrate the re-opening of Newquay Surf Lifesaving Club’s new-look clubroom at Fistral Beach.

The lunchtime event and fundraiser was a re- sounding success as the upgraded facilities and new look clubroom were seen and used for the first time by club members and guests.

Pictured are (L to R) Lion Jill Bunt, NSLSC's Wendy Harvey, Lion Andy Hannan, Elaine Skinner from Camellia Interiors, Lion Phil Bunt and Lion Barbara Hannan.

Pictured are (L to R) Lion Jill Bunt, NSLSC’s Wendy Harvey, Lion Andy Hannan, Elaine Skinner from Camellia Interiors, and Lion Barbara Hannan.

An amazing community effort is behind the re-opening as in the past the club has struggled to maintain and repair its premises under difficult circumstances as it receives no official funding.

Committee member and owner of Camellia Interiors, Elaine Skinner, had initially offered to donate a new colour scheme, paint and blinds but quickly realised it was a project which needed managing rather than a simple makeover. Approaching her regular team of tradespeople, enquiring about discounted materials and possibly free labour to assist with the project, Elaine says the response was overwhelming.

Brannans Builders provided all building materials and labour free of charge, Preserve Decorating donated their time and paints. Southwest Carpets resealed the floors and Howdens Kitchens supplied worktops at trade prices.

The club now has an upgraded kitchen, spacious changing rooms and more storage, plus indoor and outdoor seating areas.

“This renovation looks good now the building work has finished but the community support has ensured future maintenance and replacement costs will be kept to a minimum,” said Elaine.

During the celebrations certificates for many different competencies were presented to club members along with medals recently won in the Youth and Nipper National Stillwater Championships held at Millfield School and the Cornish Nipper Stillwater Championship held at St Ives.

“The club would like to congratulate everyone on their fantastic achievements. Well done to you all and keep up the good work,” said Wendy Harvey, the club chairman.

Newquay Towan Blystra Lions is proud to help support the Surf Lifesaving Club when it can, and recently presented the club with a new racing board.