The scene at Victoria Park in St. Helens was heartwarming as members of the Mersey Valley Group gathered to express their support for our veterans and spread awareness about Freemasonry.
The day kicked off with the arrival of George Moffatt, who brought along the West Lancashire Masonic trailer. Eager members of the Mersey Valley Group were already on site, ready to help George prepare the trailer for the anticipated visitors. With the trailer open and in position, there was just enough time for a bacon sandwich and a cup of tea before welcoming visitors to the site.
Mersey Valley Group Chairman David Atkinson arrived with a box full of promotional items: pens, keyrings, wristbands and Masonic pamphlets, which he distributed to the attending brethren, encouraging them to ‘go forth and spread the word, brethren’.
Members of the Widows Sons Masonic Motorcycle Association, Leo Kapp and Mark Denton, arrived on their motorcycles to demonstrate the diversity of Freemasonry. John and Robin, two dedicated members of the Blood Bikers Group, skilfully raised funds to support the crucial work of delivering blood and vital supplies to local hospitals. They rode their motorcycles, symbolizing their commitment to this life-saving cause.
Councillor Jeanette Banks, Mayor of St Helens, delivered a heartfelt address to the assembled crowd, expressing her joy and pride in witnessing such an impressive turnout in support of our veterans on Armed Forces Day.
The veterans, resplendent in their uniforms, paraded to the cheers and applause of all those present, creating a truly special and memorable moment for everyone involved.
The members of the Mersey Valley Group dedicated several hours to engaging with visitors. They were actively distributing leaflets and engaging in conversations with both young and older attendees. The visitors had gathered to admire the motorcycles and to gain insights into the activities and principles of the Freemasons.
The event was a resounding success, with Group Chairman Dave Atkinson and organizer George Moffatt expressing their heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for rallying behind the Mersey Valley Group and proudly representing the West Lancashire Freemasons. Anticipation for next year’s gathering is already building!
