I might be a little biased—after all, Leigh Chase Lodge No. 6804 honoured me with Honorary Membership a few years ago, and my good friend W.Bro Keith Baxter is the current Master—but when Big Ted and I visited their meeting at Saxon Hall last month, it truly was a night to remember.

We were privileged to witness the Raising of Bro. Ben Dadufalaza, conducted in an exemplary manner in front of a packed Lodge room filled with supportive friends and Brethren. The ceremony was outstanding, delivered with care and precision—everything a candidate could hope for on such a significant evening in their Masonic journey.

And just when I thought the evening couldn’t get any better, the Lodge presented me with an incredible £1,900 donationto the TLC Essex Appeal. This brings their total contributions since May 2024 to an outstanding £2,500, earning Leigh Chase Lodge Silver Patron status—a distinction held by only a few Lodges in the Province.

In return, I had the great pleasure of presenting W.Bro Keith Baxter with a Silver Patron Certificate to mark this remarkable achievement.

Well done and thank you, Brethren—not just for your generosity, but for your friendship, spirit, and continued support of a cause that brings comfort to so many children across Essex.

You’ve made a real difference—one teddy, and one smile, at a time.