Essex Freemasons demonstrate the importance of Community Engagement

Mayor and Councillors gathered to award Cross Keys Community Fund with the Mayoral Roll of Honour

Local Mayor, Kairen Raper, along with councillors from across the borough, gathered in Thurrock, Essex recently to present the Essex Freemasons with the prestigious ‘Mayoral Roll of Honour’, as recognition to the group’s significant contributions to the community.

Barely 18th months into its formalised inception, the CKCF is now a recognised Community Asset, and its impact has touched the hearts of thousands of local residents across the borough, from Community Projects, Charities and Children’s Groups to Care Homes.

The speeches from both the Mayor and local councillor Mark Hooper were truly captivating, highlighting the remarkable achievements that had been made. Their words were not only significant but also inspiring, emphasising the importance of the community engagement.

Mayor of Thurrock, Kairen Raper, said:

"The Mayoral Roll of Honour recognises and celebrates those who have made Thurrock a greater place to live, work, learn and play. It shines a light on individuals, community groups, charities and businesses that have worked hard to serve our great borough in extraordinary ways.

Since becoming Mayor, it has been my privilege to present the Mayoral Roll of Honour and Certificates of Recognition to some wonderful people who give their time to support members of the Thurrock Community. Without these wonderful groups like the Cross Keys Community Fund, it would not be possible for so many things to take place across Thurrock.”

Essex Freemason and CKCF Chairman, David Barton added.

“We are deeply honoured and exceptionally thankful for this recognition. Community engagement is at the heart of everything we do. Through local initiatives and community-driven projects, we ensure that our support is genuinely felt where it matters most.

As Freemasons, we have the resources and the ability to make a real difference; now, it’s time for action. We aim to leave no stone unturned in pursuit of our two main objectives: supporting local charities and charitable groups and raising the profile of Freemasonry within the local community.

To now be recognised by our own community is extremely humbling.”

Adding to the day's surprises, the Essex Freemasons were graciously invited to participate in a 'Guard of Honour' at the upcoming Mayor's Charity Ball in March, an honour that further underscored the importance of their contributions.

Congratulations to all involved.

Click this link to read more about the CKCF and when they were informed of the Honour

https://www.essexfreemasons.org.uk/news/ckcf-mroh

Photos

Top (L-R): CKCF receiving the award. Steve Hall, Roy Mills, Mick Draper, Melvyn Page, Paul Morgan, David Barton, Mayor Kairen Raper, Chris Bushell, Neil McCarthy, Clive Cheeseman, Cllr Mark Hooper

Left: CKCF Chairman David Barton and Mayor Kairen Raper

Right: Dave Barton with members of a Knitting Club