Middlesex Freemasons have raised an impressive £5,000 in support of Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, thanks to a unique charitable collaboration between members of two Middlesex lodges, Staines St Mary’s Lodge and Duke of Connaught Lodge.

The fundraising initiative began when Martin Kemble became master of Staines St Mary’s Lodge for the third time in March 2024. To mark the occasion, Ray Blowers organised a special Ladies Lunch event.

Upon learning of the event, Michael Lynton, of the Duke of Connaught Lodge and a Hatton Garden jeweller, offered to create and donate a bespoke rubellite and diamond ring for auction. However, due to its high valuation, the ring was deemed unsuitable for the lunch event's format.

Instead, they opted to present the ring at a public auction to better realise its value for charitable benefit. During a recent lodge meeting on 12 May, which featured a triple initiation, the ring was shown to guests. One attendee expressed immediate interest and made a substantial offer, which was accepted.

Michael Lynton and Martin Kemble with staff from the fund-raising team

The resulting £5,000 donation was formally presented to the hospice’s fundraising team on 4 June highlighting Middlesex Freemasonry’s enduring commitment to supporting local causes and vital community services.

For more information about the Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, please visit: https://wsbh.org.uk

To learn more about Middlesex Freemasonry, visit: https://middlesexfreemasons.org.uk

Middlesex Freemasons raise £5,000 for Woking & Sam Beare Hospice