. . and the Connection With the Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity

It was intended from the outset that the Charity’s activities should be totally inter-provincial and the aim was always to spread the word to other areas. Physical and mental disabilities observe no boundaries – so why should the endeavours of the MTSFC?

So it was after discussions that the idea of forming a new Masonic Lodge, to be an ideal vehicle to spread the word of the Charity’s positive contribution to the community, began to germinate. As with the Charity, the idea of the new lodge was to be inter-provincial and it would be able to travel to any Province where an interest had been expressed in its activities. In this way it would raise awareness and encourage them to organise their own events, thereby spreading the word of this ideal opportunity for freemasonry to be a real part of the community.

In no time at all there were over 30 masons keen and eager to become founders of this ‘new concept’ of a Masonic Lodge. The Provincial Grand Secretary for Hertfordshire was quick to offer his support and very kindly gave his time and experience to guide us through the details and procedures which would have to be undertaken along with John Clark as the Founding Secretary.

Thus the Lodge of Opportunity was formed in 2004 and the idea caught on fast. The 30 founders became 34 and many new members have joined from the non-masonic fishermen and helpers who come along to the events. The Lodge and the idea is surely guaranteed to be successful. We certainly hope so.

Future meetings of the Lodge will be held in wherever in the country an interest is shown and the plan is to invite as many Masonic fishermen and other interested parties as possible to introduce them to the concept of the Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity. In this way we hope to introduce the fishing and countryside experience to many more ‘Special Needs’ people throughout the country.