The chairman of Budleigh Salterton Carnival has received an early Christmas present, in the form of a £600 cheque from the Lions Club.

Michael Hilliar was presented with the cheque at the Lions' December Business Meeting, and said he was very grateful for the club's ongoing support.

He said: "Without donations like this we simply wouldn’t be able to put on our carnival and would sadly have to close our doors which is something we never want to do. Budleigh Salterton Lions has been one of our key supporters over the years and their continuing support, whether financial or with 'manpower', is greatly appreciated. 

"On behalf of the Carnival I have already thanked the Lions present at the meeting on Tuesday but would like to publicly thank the Lions for everything they do to support the carnival - and more importantly, the work they do within the community of Budleigh Salterton and further afield. We are very fortunate to have such an active Lions Club."

Next year's carnival will take place on October 5 at 7:30pm. Anyone who would like to support the event financially, build the royal float or help with marshalling on carnival night should contact the organisers.