On Tuesday 17th September 2024, no less than 25 Middlesex Freemasons were proud to support The Not Forgotten charity at a special Garden Party Drive-In held in the historic grounds of Syon Park, the London home of the Duke of Northumberland. The event brought together veterans and serving personnel for a day of companionship, music, and laughter and most important of all, an opportunity for all those present to show their respect and appreciation to those that served the nation.
The Not Forgotten was established in 1920 by American soprano Marta Cunningham. The Not Forgotten is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting wounded, injured, and sick veterans and serving personnel from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army, Royal Air Force, and Merchant Navy. The charity aims to combat loneliness and isolation among the Armed Forces community by organising a wide range of activities – from concerts, sporting outings, and skiing trips, to respite breaks and festive lunches. Today, the charity supports over 10,000 beneficiaries each year, helping restore confidence, dignity, and a sense of belonging to those who have served their country.
This Middlesex event was one of five similar gatherings held nationwide during the week, with Freemasons in each of Dorset, Lincolnshire, Herefordshire, and Staffordshire stepping in to assist. The Middlesex Armed Forces Lodge 9940, Middlesex Freemasonry’s foremost military lodge, jointly organised and led the support at the Syon Park event. The event was jointly funded by generous donations from the Masonic Province of Middlesex Charitable Trust (MPMCT), the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) and the Not Forgotten Charity
Freemasons in their distinctive blue hi-vis jackets welcomed veterans, assisted with set up and parking arrangements, served refreshments, distributed meals to every attendee, and finally joined in the fun. The catering, provided by BE1 GEL Bar of Brick Lane, offered endless supplies of gourmet bagels, vegetarian options, and sweet treats – proving popular with both veterans and Freemasons alike.
The entertainment included a Freddie Mercury tribute act, performances by Max Fox of Britain’s Got Talent fame, and a lively game of “Singo-Bingo”, a raffle with many prizes donated by Middlesex Lodges and local businesses, which raised an impressive £382 on the day for The Not Forgotten.
Among the many highlights were meeting Chelsea Pensioner Jack McCabe in full scarlet uniform, enjoying stories from John Stratford who participates with Royal Union Rifles Reenactment Society. There was also a VIP visit from Randeep Singh Lall Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London as well as an opportunity to make friends with the Therapy Dog who proved a hit with everyone present.
Richard Walker (Chief Executive), Rosie Thompson (Head of Events), and the dedicated Not Forgotten team worked alongside Middlesex Freemasons to ensure a smooth and memorable day for all.
The Not Forgotten charity relies heavily on donations and fundraising to continue its vital work. To find out more or to support this remarkable charity, visit www.thenotforgotten.org.