east kent freemasons with chapter and craft logo connected
Member Area (YP2)
Leybourne Grange Riding Centre for Disabled People (LGRCD) Local IT disaster solved!

Leybourne Grange Riding Centre for Disabled People (LGRCD) Local IT disaster solved!

Charity, News

Leybourne Grange Riding Centre for Disabled People (LGRCD) Local IT disaster solved!

Picture of Richard Dixy, a visiting volunteer standing next to the MCF banner

Malling Abbey Lodge and Chapter 1063

Gordon Brown writes:

The smooth operation of IT systems is critical for organizations, especially those like the Laybourne Grange Riding Centre, which provides over 5,500 therapeutic riding lessons annually to individuals with severe sensory and learning challenges. The meticulous scheduling and allocation of horses for these lessons relies heavily on efficient IT infrastructure. Therefore, when their aging computer system finally failed, the centre faced a significant operational crisis. As a charity serving West Kent and parts of London, the Centre operates on a tight budget, with every pound dedicated to its core services. Unexpected IT repairs were simply not financially feasible.

Fortunately, the Malling Abbey Lodge and Chapter 1063 of the local Masonic Centre in West Malling stepped in to offer crucial support. The members swiftly voted to fund a new computer system, demonstrating remarkable community spirit. Within a mere week, a state-of-the-art replacement was installed, much to the relief of Jo Fletcher, the Centre’s Manager. In a photo opportunity, Jo is pictured with Worshipful Brother Gordon Scott Brown, expressing her gratitude for this timely intervention. The upgraded system’s enhanced capabilities will significantly improve the Centre’s operational efficiency, allowing for better scheduling, record-keeping, and overall service delivery.

The image also shows Jo with Dylan, a gentle giant of a horse, highlighting the human-animal connection at the heart of the Centre’s work. This powerful visual underscores the profound impact of the Masonic Centre‘s generosity on the lives of the individuals who benefit from the Centre’s therapeutic riding program. The new computer system is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a lifeline, ensuring the continuation of vital services for those who need them most.

Jo Fletcher, Manager at LGRCD, seen with Gordon Scott Brown,

Jo Fletcher, Manager at LGRCD, seen with W. Bro/Ex Companion Gordon Scott Brown,

Jo is also seen with Dylan, a rather large and gentle horse, about to be saddled up

Jo is also seen with Dylan, a rather large and gentle horse, about to be saddled up

We need your stories, so please let the comms team know of the the good work your Lodges and Chapters are doing throughout East Kent. Just drop us a line on news@ekprovince.co.uk

Masonic Fishing Charity Event – Horsham Lakes, Upchurch

Masonic Fishing Charity Event – Horsham Lakes, Upchurch

Charity, Fishing, News

Masonic Fishing Charity Event – Horsham Lakes, Upchurch

Thursday 1st May 2025

What a Fish!

Masonic Fishing Charity Event – Horsham Lakes, Upchurch

 

The new Masonic Fishing Charity season is upon us and opened at

Horsham Lakes, Upchurch on Thursday 1st May. 

We really kicked off this year’s fishing with a ‘BANG’ as the weather couldn’t have been better.  The hottest day of the year, so far, as was predicted!  Plenty of drinks were on hand, as well as Hats and high factor Sun Lotion, which was the order of the day. 

After the excellent start to the day with a cup of tea and bacon buttie, the casters set forth to prepare their chosen swims and get ready for the schools to arrive. Names were called and off we went to conquer the elements and fish of the deep. 

Small Carp and silver fish were being caught fairly readily, although it was evident from the thrashing in the reed beds around the Lake that many of the larger fish were spawning, which can often put them off feeding as their fish brains had other things in mind!!

Lunchtime break came and to the eternal joy of the Students and Anglers, we were well fed with Burgers and Sausages then the opportunity to compare notes.  Soon, we were off  again for the afternoon session. It felt that within no time at all, the call came for the Grand Finale of the day.

We were fortunate to have APGM Peter Rhodes who, after a few words of thanks and encouragement, made the presentation of Angling Ability Certificates and Medals to all of the students who took part and that, as always, is accompanied by loud cheering and hearty applause!  

Attached are several images of the day.  Even one with Gerry Stupple photo bombing!!

The next event of the East Kent Masonic Fishing Charity is at

Cottington Lakes, near Deal on Thursday 12th June.

We are always looking for more Anglers, so would love you to join us.  All tackle is supplied but you can bring your own if you want.  If interested, please contact: Richard Dixey at –  rjdixey5329@gmail.com

Roger Waltham presenting one of the certificates and medal

Free Fishing at some of the best Fisheries in East Kent!

A Free Breakfast and Free Lunch and meet new friends.

 Have I your attention?

 This is what you will receive in exchange for a few hours of your time

to help Children and Adults with special needs to experience a countryside adventure 

We are always looking for more Anglers and it would great if you would like to join us.

All tackle is supplied (but you can bring your own if you want).

If interested, please contact: Richard Dixey at –  rjdixey5329@gmail.com

 Report by Richard Dixey

Presentation of Angling Ability Certificates and Medals

East Kent’s Golfers Triumph Again!

East Kent’s Golfers Triumph Again!

Charity, Golf, News

East Kent Golfers Triumph again!

Season Opener, AGM & Captains Drive off

New Captain Roy Butler (L) takes over from Chris Metherall. (R)

The Masonic Golfing Season launched its 2025 season at the prestigious Westerham Golf on Thursday 22nd April.

The Season Opener usually incorporates The AGM and is the time when the accounts are presented and a new captain elected.  The aim as always is to observe the formalities required of the AGM but to keep it short, sweet and to the point.

Entering his 5th year as chairman, Keith Hodgson called the meeting to order at exactly 10:30 am and with the accounts and reports previously circulated, managed to conclude the meeting some 5 minutes and 14 second later.

Moving to the important part, which was the annual grudge match of, East Kent V  Metropolitan Golf Society, (Met GL) for the Russell Race Trophy.  Having only won the trophy once in the last 10 years, Met GL Golfers were keen for revenge and fielded 8 players for the event. As East Kent had 21 members and guests to choose from, we were able to pick from the plethora of talent we had available.

The format for day was individual Stableford competition with the Russell race trophy being contested by the first 4 teams on a 4 Ball Better Ball basis. After a light brunch of bacon rolls and coffee, 2024 captain Chris Metherell (Malling Centenary Lodge), handed over the baton to his successor Roy Butler. (Maides Stanna Lodge) (see picture)

Runner up Nick Alder (right)

The picturesque Westerham Golf Club provided the perfect backdrop for this friendly yet competitive encounter. The first match ebbed and flowed with each player stepping up at different points to keep the score within 1 of each other. Eventually the match ended with honours even which pleased both teams.

The second match was equally stressful with Nigel Mann & Paul McGuirk taking an early lead only to find themselves one down at the turn. They battled on and eventually scored a one point on the 12th Hole. The 13th & 14th holes were halved to retain the slender lead.  On the 15th Tee, Nigel Mann, having hit his drive so far left it was on the 16th fairway, played a magnificent shot over the trees which landed on the green and rolled into the hole for an Eagle and to make East Kents lead in their game to 2 up.

The strong pairing of Darren Horne and Derek Reed lost their match 2&1 making the scores 1&1/2 each and left us with a tense few minutes in the club house waiting for the final match to come in.

The paring of Chris Metherell & Leon Zacharow Came in triumphant winning their match 4&2 meaning East Kent could celebrate another victory.

Runner up Nick Alder (right)

Robert Grant Presents the Russel Race Trophy to Captain Roy Butler. 

East Kent team displayed remarkable skill and determination, ultimately securing a well-deserved victory. Their performance was a testament to their dedication and teamwork, as they outplayed their opponents in a closely contested match.

This victory adds another feather to the cap of the East Kent Masonic Golf Association, further solidifying their reputation as formidable competitors in the masonic golfing community. The match also highlighted the spirit of unity and fellowship that defines these events, bringing together players from different regions to celebrate their shared love for golf.

Nigel Mann Winner
Roy Charter 2nd
Darren third Place

Left to Right.  Nigel Mann Winner accepts his award from Roy Butler. Roger Charter Runner Up and Darren Horne 3rd.

Runner up Nick Alder (right)

East Kent team displayed remarkable skill and determination, ultimately securing a well-deserved victory. Their performance was a testament to their dedication and teamwork, as they outplayed their opponents in a closely contested match.

This victory adds another feather to the cap of the East Kent Masonic Golf Association, further solidifying their reputation as formidable competitors in the masonic golfing community. The match also highlighted the spirit of unity and fellowship that defines these events, bringing together players from different regions to celebrate their shared love for golf.

In the individual competition, Nigel Mann won the day with 42 points. Roger Charter came in with a magnificent 38 points for runner up with Daren Horne taking the third position with 36 points. Other prizes were

Nearest The Pin 4th Hole – Steve Collins

Nearest The Pin 8th Hole – Nigel Mann

Nearest The Pin 11th Hole – Robert Grant

Nearest The Pin 13th Hole – Leon Zachrow

Longest Drive 16th Hole – Andy Crowhurst

Captain Roy Butler also gave a presentation of his charity for the Year chich is Five Acre Wood School in Maidstone which is a Foundation District Special School for children and young people with Profound, Severe and Complex Learning Difficulties, including Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

Russell Race Trophy

Roy Butler & Paul Ames Drew with Henry Chaw and Gordon Beasley

Paul McGuirk & Nigel Mann Beat Graham Dear & Steve Collins 2&1

Derek Reed & Darren Horne Lost to Robert Grant & Anil Dhiri

Leon Zachrow & Chris Metherell Beat Barry Neil & Michael Choo 4&2

East Kent 2 & 1/2.  Met GL 1 & 1/2

 

Westerham – Full results & Placings

 Fixture List 2025

Friday 30th May 2025

West Malling Golf Club (Hurricane Course)

East Kent V West Kent for the Kent Silver Salver, Social Stableford & Team Event

09:00 Coffee & Bacon Rolls, 09:56 First tee.  £72.50 Inc Lunch

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS AND BOOKING

Friday 27th June 2025

Sittingbourne & Milton Regis Golf Club

EKMGA V Surrey Masonic Sports Association plus Social Stableford

09:00 Coffee & Bacon Rolls, 10:00 First tee.  £65.00 Inc Lunch

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS AND BOOKING

 Friday 25th July 2025

Chestfield Golf Club

William Blay Trophy & Individual Stableford

10:00 Coffee & Bacon Rolls, 11:16 First tee.  £60 Inc Lunch

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS AND BOOKING

 Friday 29th August 2025

Tenterden Golf Club

Geoffrey Gordon Dearing Bowl

10:30 Coffee & Bacon Rolls, 11:24 First tee.  £50.00 Inc Lunch

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS AND BOOKING

Friday 26th September 2025

Faversham Golf Club

Captains Day & Social Stableford

10:30 Coffee & Bacon Rolls, 11:30 First tee.  £65.00 Inc Lunch

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS AND BOOKING

Friday 17th October 2025

Upchurch Valley Golf Club, Sittingbourne

David Graeme Trophy – Light Blues V Dark Blues

09:00 Breakfast, 10:00 First tee.  £50.00 Inc Lunch

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS AND BOOKING

Provincial Craft and Royal Arch Annual Meetings

Provincial Craft and Royal Arch Annual Meetings

News, Royal Arch

Provincial Craft and Royal Arch Annual Meetings

Picture of Richard Dixy, a visiting volunteer standing next to the MCF banner
The PGM for East Kent Neil Hamilton Johnstone
WBro David Graeme Provincial Grand Secretary

Worshipful Brother David Graeme, who stepped down as the Provincial Grand Secretary and Scribe E after 4 Years. 

On a bright spring morning, a sense of joy and anticipation filled the Clive Emson Conference Centre at the Kent Showground in Detling, as around 600 Freemasons from across East Kent gathered for the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Kent’s Annual Festival. The event, held on Friday 11th April 2025, was a day of celebration, recognition, and heartfelt fraternity, highlighting both the Provincial Royal Arch Chapter in the morning and the Provincial Grand Lodge in the afternoon.

The day began at 10:30 am with the Provincial Grand Chapter of East Kent Director of Ceremonies, Paul Pavitt, setting the tone by outlining the morning’s events. As the choir’s anthem sounded through the marquee, visiting dignitaries and guests from other Provinces, and the Provincial Executive, were warmly welcomed with applause. The head of East Kent Freemasons, Neil Hamilton Johnstone, then formally opened the meeting, extending a heartfelt welcome to all present.

Following formalities including the confirmation of minutes and reports, the spotlight turned to the investiture of 87 Companions receiving Provincial honours and promotions. Each name read aloud by Secretary, David Graeme, was met with enthusiastic applause, as the audience celebrated the achievements and dedication of their peers.

Special recognition was then given to two Companions who had gone above and beyond in their service. With moving citations read by David Graeme, the recipients received their awards to warm applause. In his closing address, Neil Hamilton Johnstone reflected on a year of progress and unity, citing the success of their recruitment and retention efforts. “Enjoy Freemasonry, enjoy the Royal Arch Chapter, and I wish you and your families health and happiness,” he said, leaving the audience uplifted and inspired.

After a lively and enjoyable lunch, filled with camaraderie and reconnection, the members returned to the Conference Room for the Provincial Grand Lodge meeting. With the same dignified energy as the morning, the Provincial Director of Ceremonies, Graham Cuthbert, guided the proceedings. Once again, guests and officers processed in and then Neil Hamilton Johnstone opened the session.

A moment of quiet reflection was observed for over 70 Freemasons who had passed away over the last year. Their memory was honoured with respect, a poignant reminder of the enduring brotherhood within Freemasonry.

The business of the meeting swiftly followed, including the highlight of the afternoon, the investiture of approximately 270 members to various ranks and positions. Though the numbers were large, the proceedings were carried out with precision and dignity, each award a testament to the service, spirit, and good humour of its recipient. Two additional awards for outstanding service to Freemasonry and the wider community were presented with heartfelt applause and admiration.

Tributes were also paid to those stepping down from their roles, with particular thanks given to the Provincial Grand Secretary, David Graeme, whose four years of dedicated service were marked by exceptional leadership.

David Graeme<br />

Worshipful Brother David Graeme

In his concluding remarks, Neil Hamilton Johnstone celebrated the power of Freemasonry to change lives, pointing to the charitable work made possible through the 2025 Festival’s efforts. He encouraged continued generosity and highlighted the need to keep momentum going in recruitment and community engagement. Special thanks went to Sam Watson for the development of the East Kent Province members’ App, a modern step forward in connecting and informing members.

The meeting closed with a stirring rendition of Jerusalem and a collection for charity, marking the end of a day filled with pride, friendship, and gratitude.

As the members departed, there was a sense of renewal in the air. For those honoured, it was a day of recognition. For all, it was a reminder of the shared values and fellowship that define Freemasonry – integrity, service, friendship, respect and community.

Some photos from the morning Royal Arch Meeting

Some photos from the afternoon Craft Meeting

We need your stories, so please let the comms team know of the the good work your Lodges and Chapters are doing throughout East Kent. Just drop us a line on news@ekprovince.co.uk

NINA IS THE BEST CARE HOME MANAGER!

NINA IS THE BEST CARE HOME MANAGER!

Charity, News

Nina is the Best Care Home Manager!

Picture of Richard Dixy, a visiting volunteer standing next to the MCF banner

Prince George Duke of Kent Court Home Manager wins Registered Manager Award at Great British Care Awards

John Ray writes:

Nina Stephens of the Prince George, Duke of Kent Home at Chislehurst, Kent, has won the Great British Care Award 2025 as Britain’s Best Care Manager!

The Great British Care Awards are a series of regional events throughout the UK and are a celebration of excellence across the care sector.  The purpose of the awards is to pay tribute to those individuals who have demonstrated outstanding excellence within their field of work.

The awards are all inclusive, bringing together the statutory, independent and voluntary sectors, as well as unpaid carers.

The Care Home Registered Manager Award recognises the Manager who demonstrates exceptional expertise and outstanding leadership in the complex task of managing a care home. The ideal candidate “will showcase vision in developing person-centred care, adapting to changing social care priorities, and continuously improving the quality of care provided”.

Said the judges, “Nina is an incredibly inspirational woman, speaking with deep passion and sincerity about the changes she has made at her care home. Her love for her job and dedication to making a difference in residents’ lives is evident. We were moved by Nina’s mantra, ‘sandcastles,’ reminding us to cherish the present moment. What truly stood out was Nina’s unwavering commitment to supporting her carers—advocating for pay raises, addressing ULEZ charges, and setting up a food bank, demonstrating extraordinary compassion and leadership”.

Says Martin Ransom, President of the Association of Friends at the Prince George, Duke of Kent Care Home: “There is immense pride here at Prince George, Duke of Kent. Nina was put forward by the Masonic Charitable Foundation as their top manager. She clearly won, was put forward to the National Final for ALL care homes – and won the National Award! We are very much aware of the wonderful work she has been doing with us, and it is an absolute joy that her skill, passion and dedication have been recognised with such an accolade.”

Nina Stephens, Home Manager at Prince George Duke of Kent Court, says:

“I am thrilled to win this award which embodies everything that we do in our Home every day and it is lovely for my work to be recognised by both the judges and my very supportive peers. It is a complete privilege to share the celebration of this award with our wonderful residents and my dedicated team at Prince George Duke of Kent Court.”

 

Picture of Nina

Above: (Photo 1) Nina Stephens, Home Manager at Prince George Duke of Kent Court, proudly presents her trophy at the Great British Care Award Finals. (Photo 2) Home Manager Nina Stephens pictured with resident Doreen at Prince George Duke of Kent Court.
pictures from https://rmbi.org.uk/2025/03/prince-george-duke-of-kent-court-home-manager-wins-registered-manager-award-at-great-british-care-awards/  Quote by Nina from the same website. 

We need your stories, so please let the comms team know of the the good work your Lodges and Chapters are doing throughout East Kent. Just drop us a line on news@ekprovince.co.uk