A CHARITY is mourning the loss of one of its most dedicated members.

Jim Wells, who had been president of Bolton Lions five times — a club record — has died aged 80.

He was a much-loved member of the club and had been involved since May, 1985.

He took his role very seriously, taking part in many fund-raising events, in particular the annual Caring Christmas Appeal which is run in conjunction with The Bolton News.

Mr Wells also ran the Bolton Lions’ hospital radio at the Royal Bolton — combining his love of music with a desire to help others.

In his younger days, he was in the Army — where he learned to drive — and served in Malaysia, Burma and Cyprus. He had a managerial role in the Post Office before retiring.

Mr Wells, who lived in Sharples, loved cricket and umpired for local teams.Lions club treasurer John Crompton said he would be “very sadly missed”. He said: “He was like a father figure to many of us. He was an elder statesman and his knowledge was invaluable to us.

“He was a lovely man who worked hard for Bolton Lions. He was also a friend.”

Mr Wells had suffered a fall recently and was admitted to hospital. He died on Sunday.

He was the widower of Zena and leaves a son, Warren, daughter-in-law, Lynn and grandson, Connor.

His funeral will be held at Overdale West Chapel on Tuesday, at 1.30pm. The family is asking for donations to be made to Bolton Lions.