A huge thank you to the 8 brethren from the Caeruleum Club and across the Province who gave around 5.5 hours each, a total of around 45 hours today to help marshal the St Michael’s Hospice Hereford Run.
Today was a great reminder that charity is not only about fundraising and donations — it is also about giving our time, energy, and support to our local community.
Special thanks must also go to Bro Stu Eden, who not only organised the Club’s support for the event, but also served as the lead rider for the marathon route throughout the day. Stu is relatively new to the Province but is already setting a good example that Freemasonry is best experience outside of the Lodge.
Well done to everyone involved for representing Freemasonry so positively in the community and helping make the event a success.
One of the best parts of the year in the Chair is getting out and about in the Province and visiting other lodges. Not only do you meet other great masons and forge friendships but you get to experience the breadth of ritual worked, with always something new to see. I have seen fantastic ceremonies. often with Light Blues leading the work, even taking on larger portions such as the Tracing Boards.
!st Degree at Coningsby2nd Degree at Delphis2nd Degree at Loyal Hay2nd Degree at Vaga3rd Degree at Paladian
But despite the differences and tweaks I have found the same dedication to the Craft, joyous festive boards and always a warm welcome.
You don’t need to wait to be in the chair to start visiting, keep an eye on the Provincial calendar and reach out to other lodges, they will be delighted to receive you!
Geoff Wilding of Royal Edward Lodge tells us about his recent presentation.
Having previously given my ‘Kirkwall Scroll’ presentation to another Hampshire Lodge, I was invited to present my new presentation, ‘The Grand and not so Grand Lodges of England’, to Bishopswood Lodge No 7920 that meets at the Masonic Hall, Fareham on the 23rd of April.
It was well received with generous acclamation in the temple and warm comments at the Festive Board.
There were 29 in attendance who raised £135 from the raffle, £65 of which was given to me for the First Responder’s charity, which is being supported by the Province of Herefordshire.
Celebrating 25 Years of International Football Friendships and Community Spirit
For the past quarter of a century, Ledbury Swifts, now known as Ledbury FC Youth, have upheld a proud tradition of taking their under 16 team to Strömstad, Sweden, as a memorable way to mark the conclusion of their junior football journeys. This annual trip has typically involved a boys’ team, with occasional participation from girls’ squads. In July 2026, the club is set to make history by inviting both the under 16 Boys and Girls teams on the trip, reflecting the players’ long-term commitment, many have been part of the club since they were seven years old.
The tour is designed not only as a reward for the players’ dedication and loyalty, but also as an opportunity for team building and international friendship. While parents will cover the cost of flights, the teams need to raise approximately £12,000 to fund coach transfers, accommodation, and meals.
Over the coming months, Ledbury FC Youth will be organising a range of fundraising events and challenges. The club is reaching out to local organisations and community members for financial support, which will help make this special trip possible, particularly for those players who have never travelled abroad before.
Eastnor Lodge, based in Ledbury have been a regular supporter of Ledbury FC Youth. On this occasion the Lodge has given £400 towards their fundraising for the trip. In addition the club also host a football tournament each year attracting clubs from around Herefordshire and neighbouring counties. Eastnor Lodge will be sponsoring a cup at this tournament for the U7’s “Sporting Moment ” Trophy. As this age group are not playing for a team trophy as they all receive medals. The trophy will go to a particular player chosen on the day.
In the photo are: Left to right.
Paul Finlay, Worship Master of Eastnor Lodge, Tyler, Max, Lucas, Holly, Tilly and Steven Barnett (Coach)
Nathan, from Loyal Hay Lodge meeting in Hay on Wye, was lucky enough to get a ballot place for the London Marathon 2026.
Training had not gone well due to injuries, but he ‘dug deep’ and made a magnificent effort finishing in just over six hours. He even managed a smile at the end!
Nathan ran the London Marathon in aid of the Herefordshire Freemasons Festival 2031 and Firefighters Charity through Peterchurch Fire Station where he is an on-call firefighter. The Herefordshire Festival 2031 will contribute to local community initiatives across Herefordshire.
His sponsorship page will remain open till May 21st for those that would like to donate.
