Big Ted and I recently had the pleasure of visiting St Laurence Lodge No. 5511 at Upminster, where we were warmly welcomed by the Brethren for a very special presentation.

During the evening, we had the honour of presenting the Worshipful Master, W.Bro Michael Smith, with a TLC Essex Patron Certificate in recognition of the Lodge’s generous £500 donation to the Appeal. This contribution officially places St Laurence Lodge among the growing number of Essex Lodges proudly supporting the TLC initiative.

As always, it was uplifting to be among Brethren who not only uphold the values of Freemasonry within the Lodge but also actively extend those values to their local community through charitable giving. Donations like this help ensure that children facing distress in A&E departments across Essex hospitals receive a comforting TLC teddy bear—often at a time when they need reassurance the most.

We’re incredibly grateful to W.Bro Michael Smith and all the members of St Laurence Lodge for their support and hospitality. The warmth of the meeting and the generosity shown reflect exactly what Freemasonry and the TLC Appeal stand for—kindness, care, and community.

Every donation helps us bring comfort, one teddy at a time—and we’re proud to count St Laurence Lodge among our valued Patrons.

Thank you, Brethren!