On Monday 17th June, Old Church Lodge No. 7070 held a vibrant and well-attended meeting at Harlow, with an impressive 41 Brethren dining together at the Festive Board. It was a fantastic evening of Freemasonry, fellowship, and fundraising—one that perfectly embodied the generous spirit of the Lodge.

As Chairman of TLC Essex, I had the immense pleasure of receiving an outstanding £825 donation from the Lodge on the night, bringing their total contributions this year to £1,000. In recognition of this remarkable support, I was honoured to present the Worshipful Master with a certificate naming Old Church Lodge as Bronze Patrons of the TLC Essex Appeal.

Particular thanks must go to W.Bro Dickie, who several years ago introduced a second, smaller raffle at meetings specifically to raise money for TLC. His cheerful manner—and persuasive charm—makes it hard to resist supporting the cause, even when being fined £5 for forgetting to wear a TLC lapel pin!

The generosity didn’t stop there. At the Festive Board, the proceeds of the TLC raffle were also presented—an additional £260 raised that evening alone.

True to their charitable nature, the Lodge also welcomed W.Bro Brian McGuinness to speak about the Spotlight Appeal, and he too left with a £250 donation in support of that important cause.

Old Church Lodge continues to demonstrate what Freemasonry is all about—kindness, charity, and meaningful action in support of the wider community. TLC Essex is truly grateful for their ongoing support.