Lodge of Agriculture 1199 raises £2,050 on Farmers Night for Local Charity
Farmers Night at The Lodge of Agriculture No. 1199 in Yatton is an annual tradition that goes back to 1945, when farming brethren entertain the members of the Lodge and their guests to supper at the December meeting, on the condition that following supper a collection be taken and the proceeds devoted to charity.
December 2025 Farmers night was well supported with approximately 90 Freemasons attending. After the Farming Brethren had taken up the Offices in the Lodge and conducted an excellent Initiation, everyone retired downstairs to the Festive Board, donated and prepared by the Farming Brethren and Lodge volunteers.
Is it the warm and friendly atmosphere, the benevolence of the evening or the infamous Sherry Trifles, laden with copious volumes of Sherry, Rum and other Spirits that lead to such generous donations from all who attend? Many thousands of pounds have been raised and donated to Chairty on Farmers Night. This year was no exception, with a staggering £2,050 being generously given by Members and Visitors.
The donation was made to Claverham and Winford Riding for the Disabled (RDA). Who, after significant increases in the cost of feed following the dry summer, were facing financial difficulty. One of their riders, A 26-year-old rider, who has attended the club for 22 years, completed a sponsored swim, dance class, boxing session, bike ride, and pony ride to raise funds to keep the Charity going.
On hearing this, the Farming Brethren and Lodge Members were inspired and motivated to raise as much as possible on Farmers Night to support this worthy local charity. As well as feed, they need new tackle (Leads, reigns) and Helmets. The Donation of £2,050 has enabled the Charity to plan for their future, and to continue offering the excellent service to those who will benefit from it
The Chairty welcomed Members of the Lodge of Agriculture, showed us what they do, introduced us to some of the riders, and the Horses. The Staff, volunteers, Riders and families all expressed sincere gratitude for our support. It was one of those occasions when you feel very proud to be a Somerset Freemason.
