M.B.F.
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Recently the Mark Benevolent Fund, represented by Charities Manager Darren Coleman-Heald, attended Hanningfield Reservoir in Essex to witness the official handover of a £17,500 rescue boat to the Sailability Charity. Accompanied by Essex Provincial Grand Master R.W.Bro.John Finlay, Assistant Provincial Grand Master’s John Stannard and Geoff Newman, Charity Steward Peter Maloney, Mark member Jeff Bennett and brethren from St. Katherines Lodge.
The charity, who are supported on a regular basis by Jeff and St. Katherines Lodge, provide sailing for disabled and handicapped people. The pleasure that the users of this service get is obvious. To witness the sailors, of all ages, in the boats is an absolute pleasure for all. It is obvious that the therapy and personal satisfaction that they receive in being able to sail and navigate, usually alone, is immeasurable.
The Mark Benevolent Fund had been approached by Essex Mark with a view to assist in funding the £17,500 needed to purchase the R.I.B. Having followed their usual appraisal and investigations the M.B.F. were delighted to be able to offer support and provide the charity with the much-needed vessel, which is aptly named “Mark Mason” and proudly bears the Grand Lodge logo on the central column.
R.W.Bro. John Finlay climbed into the boat along with Carol Symon, the Vice Commodore of Hanningfield Sailability, and John presented the official paperwork and ceremonially handed the keys for the R.I.B to Carol and explained to the many users and volunteers present how the M.B.F. serves our local community with funds raised in our local community.
As the Hanningfield Reservoir is at a low level at present, the boat remains in dry dock until the new sailing season starts – and is eagerly admired by the many Essex sailors and their helpers who will benefit from this wonderful new vessel.
Our pictures show the assembled group of volunteers and users along with Essex Mark members and M.B.F. Charities Manager Darren Coleman-Heald. “MARK MASON” the aptly named R.I.B. and Provincial Grand Master John Finlay with Vice Commodore Carol Symons.
Following the presentation the Sailability members kindly provided much needed refreshments with homemade sandwiches and cake to the attendees.
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Asst.Prov.G.M. W.Bro. Geoff Newman.
Posted on 07/08/25
