South Western Ambulance Service Trust (SWAST) held its awards ceremony at The Hill – a location that doubles up as the Freemasons’ Hall in Stroud and a popular events venue boasting magnificent views over the Five Valleys. There is a close affinity between the emergency services and Freemasonry – both share a close camaraderie and a commitment to service, particularly to those in need in the community. It was fitting therefore that Gloucestershire Freemasonry offered SWAST the use of The Hill for honouring their Community First Responders (CFR). A CFR is swiftly on hand to provide lifesaving intervention until an ambulance arrives.
Newly minted Provincial Grand Master Ian Davies and two of the Directors of the Hall were present to make guests welcome, including CFRs and their families, senior members of SWAST and Peter Phillips, who made the presentations. Gloucestershire’s very own Freemason and CFR Jim Jones of Innsworth Lodge no. 8751 received his Coronation Medal, presented to those who had served five years or more at the time of The King’s Coronation.
