DORCHESTER Lions have welcomed their first Lioness.

Louise Newman has become the first female member of the club.

The marketing co-ordinator for Olds Motor Group has worked closely with Dorchester Lions over the past seven years.

Her company has been a leading sponsor of the annual fun run.

At their recent meeting Dorchester Lions officially welcomed Louise into the fold.

The mother-of-two said: "I'm honoured to be invited to join the Lions and very much look forward to having the chance to put something back into the local community."

Lions president Ken Otter said: "We are delighted to welcome Louise although, in truth, she has worked so closely with us for so many years most members felt she was already a Lion."