Yesterday, I had the great pleasure of attending a meeting of Belmont Chapter No. 9623 at Chingford, where I was kindly invited to speak about the TLC Essex Appeal and personally thank the Companions for their recent donation.

The atmosphere in the Chapter was warm and welcoming, and I was grateful for the opportunity to share a few words about the work of TLC Essex — how something as simple as a teddy bear can provide genuine comfort to children in A&E departments across our county. It’s often in moments of fear or uncertainty that the smallest gestures have the biggest impact, and these teddies continue to play a vital role in softening traumatic experiences for young patients and their families.

Belmont Chapter’s generous donation will help us continue that work. With each bear costing just £2.50, their support means dozens of children will now receive a soft companion during a difficult time — a true act of kindness that may be small in appearance, but profound in effect.

TLC Essex is deeply grateful for the continued support from across the wider Masonic family, and it’s always a pleasure to see Royal Arch Chapters stepping forward to help us extend our reach.

Thank you again to the Companions of Belmont Chapter for your generosity and for helping us spread comfort, one bear at a time.