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 second Drive in Concert for The Not Forgotten brought them to Brinsop Manor in Herefordshire. The event was part of a week long programme of concerts in partnership between the Charity and a number of different Masonic Provinces.

Hosted at Lulworth Castle (Dorset), Brinsop Court Manor House (Herefordshire), Syon Park (Middlesex), Idlerocks Farm (Staffordshire), and Grimsthorpe Castle (Lincolnshire), these events were made possible through a powerful strategic partnership with the Freemasons—recently honoured with the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award for our outstanding support to the military community. From coast to urban-fringe to countryside, veterans parked up, tuned in, and sang and danced in a safe space among a community they trust—surrounded by camaraderie, laughter, and the unmistakable feeling of being valued.

The event in Herefordshire entertained over one hundred guests who were with music from Annie Riley, Max Fox and Gary Goodmaze aka Freddie Mercury.  Also sensational acrobatics, delicious food, a raffle and of course the company and camaraderie that military veteran gatherings do best!

To many of the veterans attending, this was not just an entertaining afternoon out, it was a mental lift and a boost to confidence money can’t buy. Feeling valued for their service and spending time in a safe, supportive community of other veterans who understand them and their experiences. Others could sit back in the safety of their car and feel the sense of achievement in simply leaving the house and attending an event.

Richard Walker the Chief Executive of The Not Forgotten commented.

“This September, The Not Forgotten, in proud partnership with Freemasonry, delivered five spectacular Drive-In Concerts across the UK—bringing music, joy, and connection to hundreds of veterans living with injury, illness, and isolation. The Not Forgotten values our role within Freemasonry’s strategic ambition to engage communities in need and we are committed to helping expand our collective reach and deepen our social impact. As a small charity with a big heart and a vast network, we consistently deliver social value through partnership—maximising both reach and impact. We are extremely grateful to the Freemasons for their generosity, hospitality, and boots-on-the-ground support. Together, we’ve not only entertained—we’ve transformed lives.”

For more photos please visit the The Not Forgotten Gallery below:

We are proud to announce that the United Grand Lodge of England has been awarded the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award, the highest honour given by the MOD for outstanding support to the Armed Forces community!

This recognition extends across the whole of UGLE – meaning that every Province and District is also a recipient of the ERS Gold Award.

This achievement is a reflection of our collective commitment to those who serve, and we extend our thanks to every member whose support has made this recognition possible.

We are very proud in Herefordshire to be part of this initiative and have a long association with the Armed Forces and providing support for many Veteran’s charities.

Watch our latest video to see how Freemasons continue to support the brave men and women who have served our nation.

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.