Hinge of Friendship Lodge

Hinge of Friendship and Greenstede Lodges have donated funds and presented a cheque each to the Mayor, to help the “East Grinstead Emergency Action Group”. This initiative was set-up by East Grinstead Councillors and volunteers to help the elderly, vulnerable and self-isolating members of the community get through the current crisis.

They have set-up an emergency helpline where people can just talk to someone, request some urgent shopping, or have a prescription collected. These donations will help to run this vital service, helping with their expenses etc. Our remit is always to try and help local causes where we can make a difference, and this is certainly one of those.

This initiative came to Jamie Weeks' attention when he had a chance meeting with Councillor Dick Sweatman (of Greenstede) in the Sainsbury’s car park. Dick was laden with shopping and revealed that he was delivering goods for the elderly and vulnerable.

The presentation of the sizeable cheques was a most enjoyable and light-hearted occasion. This picture shows the Greenstede Master Malcolm Kealey presenting his lodge’s cheque, mindful of social distancing, with a litter picker! However, the Master of The Hinge of Friendship Kevin Fearn was taking social distancing much more seriously!

On receiving these cheques, the Mayor commented that they would make a big difference; and requested that a huge “thank you” be conveyed to the Brethren of both Lodges.