Lionism was started in United States by Melvin Jones in June 1917. A circle of business friends helping each other decided to help a wider circle of people.The organisation has grown to 1.4 million members in over 180 countries and areas, and is the largest service organisation in the world. The ethic of Lionism is one of service as a group to fellow human beings without regard to politics, religion or race.

Helensburgh Lions Club was chartered in April 1964, and is the longest surviving Lions Club in Scotland. Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from April to October at 7.30pm, and the first and third Tuesdays of each month from November to March at 7pm. Meetings are held in Helensburgh Golf Club. There are now 22 active Lions Clubs in Scotland

2008/9 Office Bearers President Martin Webb Secretary Mel Newton Treasurer Fergie Millar

Martin Webb (left) receives chain of office from outgoing President Graham Henderson.