The Provincial Grand Master Stephen Wyer launched the new 'Worcestershire Freemasons Charity' (WFC), fully compliant with the latest Charity Commission provisions, enabling the WFC to act with renewed purpose and enhanced capabilities.
Service is at the heart of the work of the Province, with the WFC fully aligned with the scope of the desired service activities. This leap in efficiency and positioning means that the citizens of Worcestershire immediately benefit from the forward planning and insightful approach to charity and service adopted by the Province.
The recent donation of a 'Blood Bike' to the 'Severn Freewheelers Emergency Voluntary Service' serves as a practical example that clearly illustrates the charitable work and service of the Province. The 'Severn Freewheelers' are part of the National Association of Blood Bikes that ensures the UK has 'coast-to-coast' service coverage.
They can proudly demonstrate decades of service to the NHS and the wider community. They are an integral part of the NHS front-line services, not a 'cherry on the top, but an integral ingredient of the cake'. When you see a 'blood bike' on the road, remember that the rider is an unpaid volunteer, working to professional standards and providing the service to the NHS free of charge. The 'blood bike' is a brand new 2024 BMW R1250RT, which is the pinnacle of BMW's bike hierarchy. It's fully liveried in Worcestershire Freemasons and Widows Sons Chapter logos, proudly named 'The Widows Son' and has already been put into service.
Worcester Masons are keeping a 'very keen eye in their rearview mirrors' as it makes its rounds as a tangible example of charity. As Andy Philpott, who led the project, says:
'It's delivering service with every twist of the throttle', making it a standout proof point of 'masonry in action'.
Finally, Worcestershire Masons also answered the call for a 'Ground Force' day at Acorns Children's Hospice. Lodge of Hospitality, supported by the Brethren from Wythall Lodge and White Ensign Lodge, along with friends, family and work colleagues, all came together to make a real difference to the outside areas of the hospice.
The real essentials of weeding, clearing and sweeping up were done with woodwork being painted in bright colours. After completing the work, a spell of good weather immediately followed giving the children, families and staff, a clean, bright and welcoming outside area to enjoy. This wonderful initiative of giving time in the form of a Sunday volunteering day lifts all the spirits at Acorns.
