LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND FREEMASONS SUPPORTING THE NOT FORGOTTEN CHARITY

As part of our ongoing engagement with the Armed Forces Covenant and our Community Engagement initiative, the Province of Leicestershire & Rutland, through the LRFC (Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Charity), was pleased to support The Not Forgotten Charity by assisting and providing financial backing with a garden party for veterans held at The Fable Yard, Whatton House, on the 1st September 2026.

The Not Forgotten Charity is dedicated to transforming the lives of veterans and serving military personnel who may be struggling with injury, illness, or isolation. Through social events and shared experiences, the charity helps to lift spirits, restore dignity and confidence, and rebuild the sense of camaraderie and belonging that many beneficiaries greatly miss.

Its activities contribute to improved physical and mental wellbeing, reduce loneliness and isolation, build self-esteem, and encourage beneficiaries and their families to lead happier, more sociable, and more confident lives.

The event welcomed approximately 100 veterans, together with their families and civic dignitaries, for an enjoyable afternoon of socialising and companionship.

Guests were treated to canapés and afternoon tea, providing an opportunity to relax, meet others, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The atmosphere was warm and convivial, with the day providing a valuable opportunity for veterans to reconnect and share experiences.

The event was honoured by the attendance of the following civic dignitaries:

• Mike Kapur OBE CStJ – Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire

• Mel Thomas QPM – High Sheriff of Leicestershire

• Susannah Fish OBE – High Sheriff of Rutland

• Councillor Colin Hamilton – Mayor of Charnwood

• Mrs. Emma Low – Mayoress of Charnwood

The event was also attended by Peter Kinder and his Leadership Team. Several members of the Province generously volunteered their time to act as stewards throughout the day. Their assistance helped ensure that the event ran smoothly, supporting the organisers and helping guests enjoy the occasion.

Following the event, Claire Spence, Community Fundraising Coordinator for The Not Forgotten, expressed her sincere thanks for our support and highlighted that this had helped create an environment in which beneficiaries could relax, socialise, and enjoy a special day. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with guests describing the day as enjoyable and highly successful, bringing together veterans, families, civic dignitaries, charity representatives, and members of the Province.

The day demonstrated the positive impact of fellowship, community support, and charitable engagement. The Province was proud to assist The Not Forgotten Charity and to play a part in providing such a positive and memorable experience for veterans and their families.

The Province extends its thanks to all members who volunteered their time and helped make the day such a success.