Community groups across the county have been presented with thousands of pounds, thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Watford Lions.

At a glittering ceremony at Watford Town Hall on Thursday evening, members of the society, Mayor Dorothy Thornhill, council Chairman Alan Burtenshaw and a number of local organisations gathered together for the presentation.

Mayor Thornhill gave a short speech thanking Watford Lions for their efforts in raising cash at the annual Cassiobury fireworks display.

She then presented a cheque for £2,000 to Susan Harper, representative of the Watford Blind Centre.

The money will go towards replacing their flooring.

Jennie Redford, representative of Digwell Place, Riding for the Disabled, was given a cheque for £1,000 by Councillor Burtenshaw.

The ceremony was also an opportunity for members of the Watford Lions to award trophies to the winners of the club’s annual Sponsored Horse Ride event, held in September last year.

Lion’s president Michael Chapple, along with Councillor Alan Burtenshaw presented cups to the following winners:

• Niamh O’Brien for best turned out rider under 16

• Caroline Pluck and Jackie McGonigle joint winners of best turned out rider over 16,

• Gemma Bullock Best sponsored under 16

• Angela Palmer Best sponsored over 16 for the third year running

• Aysha Fox special award for collecting £200 in sponsorship money.