Herefordshire Freemasons have recently received feedback on two of the donations made in support of the Armed Forces Covenant.

Howle Hill Memorial Garden

Vitruvian Lodge from Ross on Wye recently donated funds to help maintain and upgrade the Howle Hill Memorial Garden near Ross. This included water butts to enable the plants and foliage to be watered regularly Pictured here is the Lodge Charity Steward Craig Morgan with the Project Lead Yolande Watson at the Royal British Legion AGM where the cheque was presented.  This was followed by a presentation on the local soldiers who sadly lost their lives during the World Wars.

124 (Hereford City) Squadron RAFAC visit to the Normandy Battlefields

The second donation was to 124 (Hereford City) Squadron RAFAC in support of a trip to see the Normandy Battlefields. In July 2025, 4 adults and 11 cadets from 124 (Hereford City) Squadron RAFAC undertook a trip to the Normandy Battlefields.

The objectives were to:

• introduce the cadets to the history and scale of the D Day landings
• reflect on the impact of the campaign to society and the individuals involved
• to build unit esprit de corps and contribute to cadet personal development  

For a few it was their first overseas visit, for more it was their first trip on a ferry. Time in the minibus enabled everyone to get know each other, exchange stories, tell some awful jokes, sing songs and listen to an eclectic music catalogue.

Flying Officer Andy Taylor OBE DL | 124 (Hereford City) Squadron wrote:

“I have two lasting memories of the visit:

Firstly ,the visit to Omaha Beach, the cadets almost skipped onto the sand probably thinking of previous visit to the seaside. Then, as the story of ‘Bloody Omaha’ unfolded the mood palpably changed, they became quiet, attentive and contemplative, clearly thinking of the time 81 years previously when the sand had been stained by the blood of so many men, some not many years older than they were.

Secondly everyone sat around a picnic table outside the hotel on a lovely summer’s evening, playing simple card and numbers games, everyone joining in, laughing and clearly enjoying ‘the moment’.

The cadets have all drawn something from the trip and learnt something about the enormity of the operation and the commitment and sacrifice of the individuals involved, but also thoroughly enjoyed their time making and strengthening friendships; they will have lasting knowledge, memories and experiences to take forward with them into their futures.

We are all most grateful to those that supported us – Herefordshire Freemasons, West Midlands RFCA Cadet Welfare Fund and our own Squadron’s Civilian Management Committee – a big thank you to you all”

We have received updates from two of the Guide Dogs sponsored by Herefordshire Lodges based in Hereford.  

Bailey, sponsored by Coningsby Lodge is now one year old and still in training.  He has grown up to be a strong and loving young dog who is full of potential. He has certainly grown from the first picture taken as a puppy.

Mason, sponsored by Vaga Lodge has now qualified as a life-changing dog.  He has been matched with Philip.

After training together for several weeks, Philip and Mason have formed a wonderful partnership, and they’ve been busy practising their skills and exploring new environments – the world has really opened up for them both.

Marinda, the Guide Dog Mobility Specialist who has been working with Philip and Mason, told us proudly that Mason is a sensitive, intelligent young dog, and it’s been so rewarding to watch them both grow in confidence these past months.

The generous gifts from both these Lodges has enabled Guide Dogs for the Blind to continue the vital work that they do, providing freedom and independence for people with sight loss.

The Taurus Chapter of the Widows Sons MBA had the honour of representing Herefordshire Freemasonry at the recent Stateside Sunday meet, hosted at HR4K in Hereford.

The event brought together motorcycle enthusiasts from across the region, celebrating the American side of biking culture with live music, food, and plenty of camaraderie. For Taurus, it was an ideal opportunity to showcase who we are, what we stand for, and the charitable work we support within our community.

Our stand attracted a great deal of interest throughout the day. Many visitors stopped by to learn more about the Widows Sons MBA and our connection to Freemasonry. Encouragingly, we also had several people enquire about membership – a positive sign of continued growth and enthusiasm for our newest Widows Sons Chapter in England.

It was wonderful to see such strong support from across the Association. Alongside Taurus members, we welcomed Brethren and friends from Worcestershire, Staffordshire, Meridian, Wyvern, and South Wales Chapters, with well over sixty Widows Sons gathering in total. The atmosphere was one of genuine friendship and brotherhood, perfectly reflecting the values we ride under.

We extend our thanks to Jack and the team at HR4K for their kind invitation and warm hospitality. Events like these not only strengthen the bonds of fellowship within the Widows Sons but also give us the chance to connect with the wider community and share the positive message of Freemasonry in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Taurus Chapter looks forward to attending future meets and building on the success of this fantastic day.