Supporting Those Who Serve – Somerset Freemasons at Bridgwater Armed Forces Day
Members from Masonic Lodges across Bridgwater, together with brethren from
Somerset Military Lodge No. 10021, proudly represented the Province of Somerset
at Bridgwater Armed Forces Day, held at the Morganians Rugby Club on Saturday
27 June.
Led by Russ Woodland, the team welcomed visitors to the Somerset Freemasons
gazebo throughout the day, speaking with members of the public about
Freemasonry, the Province’s charitable work and the many ways in which Somerset
Freemasons support their local communities. The event also provided an opportunity
to meet Bridgwater Mayor Leigh Redman and local MP Ashley Fox, both of whom
showed a keen interest in the Province’s work. Several visitors also expressed an
interest in finding out more about Freemasonry and its place within the local
community.
One of the day’s most memorable moments came when Mrs Gardner visited the
stand. Having previously received one of our Teddies for Loving Care (TLC) bears
for her sick grandchild at an earlier community event, she returned simply to say
thank you. In a touching gesture of appreciation, she presented Russ Woodland with
a cheque for £50, recognising the comfort that the teddy had brought to her family.
The donation was gratefully received and serves as a wonderful reminder that even
the smallest acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.
Events such as Armed Forces Day provide an excellent opportunity to strengthen
links with local communities while recognising the service and sacrifice of serving
personnel, veterans and their families. They also reflect the values shared by
Freemasonry and the Armed Forces: service, integrity, friendship and supporting
others, and demonstrate Somerset Freemasons’ continuing commitment to making a
positive difference across the county.
Photos: Russ Woodland receives a £50 donation from Mrs Gardner, whose family
previously benefited from a Teddies for Loving Care (TLC) bear presented by
Somerset Freemasons. Somerset Freemasons at the Bridgwater Armed Forces Day
shading under the Provincial gazebo.
