A special celebration at Carnarvon Lodge No 2376 became an opportunity to give back, as two of the lodge’s most senior and respected members marked an extraordinary shared milestone. In 2025, Stuart Cowburn and Allan Scott both celebrated 60 years in Freemasonry as members of Carnarvon Lodge. To mark the occasion, they chose to make a joint charitable donation of £2,376 to the Rosemere Cancer Foundation, a cause that holds deep personal meaning for them both.
The donation amount was deliberately chosen to reflect the lodge number itself, symbolising the central role Carnarvon Lodge has played in their lives over six decades. Stuart Cowburn said that Allan had suggested that something should be done together. When the idea of using the lodge number was suggested, it just felt right as Carnarvon Lodge has given us both so much over the years.
For both men, Rosemere Cancer Foundation is not simply a charity they support, but one that has supported them and their families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Stuart Cowburn has himself received treatment supported by Rosemere Cancer Foundation and he has long been involved in fundraising for the foundation through Freemasonry.
The care that Stuart had received was exceptional, Stuart said that it’s not just the treatment, It’s the people, the atmosphere and the reassurance they give you at a time when you really need it. Rosemere Cancer Foundation has always been a charity that Stuart has wanted to support.
For Allan Scott, the connection is equally profound. Several members of his family have been cared for by Rosemere Cancer Foundation, including his late wife Alice and his daughter, who underwent a major operation.
When making a donation was discussed, Allan said that there was never any doubt in his mind, Rosemere Cancer Foundation looked after my wife, my daughter and other family members. Alan went on to say that It’s a charity that means a great deal to him and he wanted this donation to go where it would truly be appreciated.
The cheque was formally presented in December 2025, with members of the lodge reflecting on how fitting it was that a milestone rooted in brotherhood, commitment and service should result in support for a charity dedicated to care and compassion.
Charity Steward of Carnarvon Lodge, Adam Dennett, said the donation perfectly captured the spirit of the occasion with Stuart and Allan having each given 60 years of service to Freemasonry and to the lodge. Adam went on to say that to see them both choose to mark that milestone by supporting Rosemere Cancer Foundation speaks volumes about their character and about what Freemasonry stands for. Adan added that the fact that the donation amount reflects the lodge number makes it even more meaningful. It is a simple gesture, but one that is full of symbolism and heart.
Fundraising Manager for Rosemere Cancer Foundation, Sue Swire, who received the donation from Allan, Stuart and lodge charity steward Adam Dennett, said that to reach a diamond anniversary is a very rare and incredible achievement. Allan and Stuart must have helped to raise many £1,000s for many different charities over their years as Freemasons. Sue said that the charity is delighted that when it came to celebrating Alan and Stuart’s 60th anniversary, they chose to support Rosemere Cancer Foundation. And that can be assured that their donation will go towards projects bringing real benefits to local people currently going through cancer treatment.
The £2,376 donation will support Rosemere Cancer Foundation’s ongoing work to provide enhanced cancer care across Lancashire and South Cumbria. For Carnarvon Lodge, it stands as a powerful reminder that Freemasonry’s values are lived through action, generosity and a desire to make a positive difference. For Stuart Cowburn and Allan Scott, it is a fitting way to mark 60 years of friendship, service and shared commitment, while helping to ensure that others receive the care and support that meant so much to them and their families.
Carnarvon Lodge is part of the Chorley and Leyland Group in the Province of West Lancashire. To learn more about the lodge, visit their website here.