Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending Henry de Gray Lodge No. 6627 to present a TLC Patron Certificatein recognition of their £783 donation to the TLC Essex Appeal.

It was a fantastic meeting with plenty of Light Blue members and guests in attendance. The evening’s work was a Third Degree Ceremony delivered with confidence and style by W.Bro Doug Noon, with Bro. John Deeble also excelling as Senior Deacon.

Originally, the Lodge had raised £500, but when they learned their Secretary, W.Bro Barry Abbott-Trangmar, had recently completed a tandem skydive while visiting Australia, a whip-round was quickly organised—adding £283 to the total.

During the meeting, I was invited to say a few words about the TLC Appeal and, half-jokingly, mentioned they were just £213 short of Bronze Patron status—which could be achieved if someone fancied doing another skydive…

Well, challenge accepted! Not only did W.Bro Barry volunteer to take to the skies again, but he was swiftly joined by Bro. Jamie Barton (SW), Bro. John Deeble (SD), Bro. Martin Priest (IG), and W.Bro Andrew Noon (PM). All five will be taking part in our 12,000-foot sponsored tandem skydive at Headcorn Aerodrome in Kent on 25th July 2025!

It looks like Team HDG have their sights set on Gold Patron status (£5,000)—and we couldn’t be more thrilled!

Nice one, brethren! 👏👏👏👏