Everybody was affected by the lockdown in one way or another, and we know from the many stories we’ve heard, over the past few months, that charities are still feeling the financial hit taken during the pandemic.
Tenterden Lions Club was no exception, with all fundraising events being cancelled they needed other ways to raise money, because more than ever, people needed help in all manner of forms.
So, step up Tenterden Lion, Stephen Woodman, who took it upon himself to organise a charity beard shave, or mane shave, in support of the club and raised an incredible £1,428 from 33 different donors.
Speaking on the fundraiser Steve said: “As we know the lockdown has hit all charities hard and I wanted to do my bit. I have only been a member of the Lions for a year but have been inspired by the difference we can make to people’s lives. The time has come to get rid of my lockdown beard. Captain Birdseye and Father Christmas have offered me jobs but I’ve said no, I’m too young!”
We spoke to Steve to find out his reason for joining the Tenterden Lions Club, just exactly how long he had been growing the beard and just how many years the trim took off him, as well as his reasons for starting the fundraiser.
Steve said: “I wanted to do something to help the local community as all our normal fundraising events have been cancelled. The beard was about for 3 months, long enough for me, and after I went from 75 to a modest 55.
“I joined the Lions to help people less fortunate than myself. The good causes that benefit rely on us all for support.”
Although the beard shave wasn’t meant to be one of the Lion’s ‘mane’ events before our lives got turned upside down, we hope it inspires you to get out there and make your pride proud.