When a Hospital Charity Needed Heroes, Essex Freemasons Walked It!

When the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity called for heroes, the members of Mersea Island Masonic Lodge answered with determination, teamwork, and community spirit.

On Saturday, 4 October, Guy Farrow, led fellow members Will Bixby, Robin Bailey, Liam McGurl, and Nick Moffatt on a gruelling 21-mile “Hospital Hero Hike”, raising vital funds to support services that go above and beyond what the NHS can provide.

Battling stormy weather, steep gradients, and challenging terrain, the team completed the cross-country route in just eight hours, a true test of endurance and commitment. Despite blisters and the blustery winds of Storm Ami, spirits remained high throughout.

Thanks to generous supporters and pledges still coming in, the Lodge has already raised over £1,000 for the charity. These funds will help provide everything from life-saving equipment and innovative technology to the small but meaningful comforts that make a difference, such as slippers to prevent falls, or tea and coffee for those undergoing chemotherapy.

Reflecting on the challenge, Will Bixby said:

“I suppose 21 miles might seem a lot, but it’s just one foot in front of the other until you get to the end! The NHS goes the extra mile every day to keep people well, and we wanted to do something to support that vital work. The Hospital Hero Hike is a great way of doing that, and we’d encourage others to get involved.”

The Mersea Island Lodge team truly embodied the spirit of local Freemasonry, proving that when our hospitals need heroes, Essex Freemasons are ready to walk the distance.

To find out more about the walk and the charity, visit:
Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity – Hospital Hero Hike

This year’s Hospital Hero Hike has raised over £40,000 for the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, with more than 300 participants trekking across the Essex and Suffolk countryside between Colchester and Ipswich hospitals.

-ENDS-

Photos:

Team L to R: Will Bixby, Guy Farrow (Master), Robin Bailey, Liam McGurl, Nick Moffatt

The team members proudly displaying their medals