Fylde Coast Freemasons were delighted to support the annual Blackpool Santa Dash on behalf of Brian House. Brian House Children’s Hospice provides specialist care and respite for children with life-limiting illness in Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre completely free of charge.
The Sunday morning event saw over 1,700 participants dressed up in the red Santa outfits and other festive attire including children dressed as elves and furry friends suitably clothed. This fantastic event offers families and individuals the chance to walk, run or dash the Golden Mile to raise money to support this worthy cause. Over 20 brethren and their families made their way to the White Tower by the corner of Pleasure Beach in readiness for photographs and the 11:00 start from Sandcastle Waterpark.
John Cross, Chairman of the North Fylde Group said: “I got involved some three years ago, when Clive Chenery from Wyre Lodge No 7704 suggested we take part; so, we tried to encourage involvement from all three Fylde groups. It has been a joy to see so many local Masons turn out for this very important community related charity. I am grateful to Russell Forsyth and Jim Gregson for helping to steward the event over recent years.”
Regional Charity Steward Bob Marsden, worked closely with the three Fylde Coast Group Charity Stewards to build support from lodges and chapters. Bob commented: “We are still receiving funds through individual’s Just Giving pages, as well as collecting amounts through the sponsor pages that lodges and chapters have organised themselves. At this moment in time, we have collected in excess of £4,000, but we anticipate a greater amount ahead of a planned cheque presentation nearer Christmas. I am grateful to Neil Higgins, Blackpool Group Charity Steward, David Jenkinson, South Fylde Group Charity Steward and Adam Turner, North Fylde Group Charity Steward, who have through their own efforts raised a total in excess of £2,000.”
Report and pictures by Peter Grihault, Assistant Strategic Publicity Officer for the South Fylde Group.