Martello Lodge supports the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society

Dave Hawtin and the Martello Lodge raised £3,500 to support families affected by premature birth or infant loss

On Friday 5th December, Dave Hawtin the Immediate Past Master of Martello Lodge No. 7121 met with Maria Gormley from the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society (SANDS) Clacton team, to present a donation of £3,500 raised by the Lodge. The presentation took place in Clacton-on-Sea and marked the culmination of the Lodge’s recent charitable efforts in support of this vital cause.

During the meeting, Maria expressed her gratitude on behalf of SANDS and presented Martello Lodge with their official ‘Team’ fundraising total of £525.29 and commemorative medal from the recent Clacton Ribbon Run/Walk*.

Ribbon Run Success

Previously, on 11th October 2025 members of Martello Lodge - coordinated by Simon Butcher were proud to take part in the SANDS (Clacton) Ribbon Run/Walk, joining the community to remember babies born too soon or lost too soon, and to stand in solidarity with families affected by loss. The event also celebrated the Clacton community and the strength shown by all participants.

Where the Money Will Go

Maria spoke warmly about the commitment shown by Lodge members and took time to explain precisely how the donated funds will make a difference.

They will be used to:

Create memory boxes for families who have sadly lost a baby

Support local bereavement meetings, ensuring families have a safe space to talk, share and heal

Strengthen the charity’s partnership with Colchester Hospital’s specialist Bereavement Midwife and her team

These efforts connect closely with charity work already supported by Dave, whose fundraising has helped the Blossom Suite at Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford, further reinforcing the Lodge’s ongoing commitment to supporting bereaved families across Essex.

Well done to everyone who took part and completed the walk—and well done to Dave and Simon, along with members of Martello Lodge for making a meaningful difference.

‘*’ The annual charity fund raising SANDS (Clacton) Ribbon Run/Walk is open to all and covers a distance of 5k commencing at the Clacton Pier along the seafront to the Kingscliff Hotel and retuning along the top promenade to the finish by the baby loss awareness Remembrance Ribbon display at the seafront memorial Garden.

You can read more about SANDS by clicking this link to their website: https://www.sands.org.uk/

The Martello Lodge meets at the Colvin Memorial Temple, Clacton.

Photos:

Top: Members of Martello Lodge at the Ribbon Run/Walk event

Below: Dave Hawtin presenting donation cheque and receiving the Team fundraising total certificate for the Ribbon Run/Walk event from Maria Gormley