MTSFC - The Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity

I'd like to report the events that took place on the 13th May - Fishing Day at Ringsted with 15 special needs children. 2 schools were involved, Wrenn Spinney School and Corby Business Academy School. But let me take you back to the day before and the events that lead up to this special day!

Past Master and Chairman of the Northampton and Huntington branch, Worshipful Brother John Mackenzie, myself Keith Barrow (the chef) and the events coordinator Brother John Kemp also a chef, and volunteers and helpers met up the day before and erected the two marquis and set the stall out in readiness for their special day. After which, we retired to the local public house where we all participated in a nice glass of red wine, compliments of John Mackenzie and recapped for the day to follow.

The day came, the 13th May. Beautiful day and fishermen started to arrive in all their gear, BBQ's were being warmed up ready for breakfast. The bailiff of Ringsted Fishing Facilities was also on attendance and Mr Harold and Mrs Rosemary Foster made the day a free day for our special needs children, whilst also donating the Cup for the Best Caster (which the bailiff won). St John's ambulance were on attendance for the day and joined us for breakfast and the sunshine.

Once breakfast was over, the coaches arrived. All fishermen at the ready and after a safety briefing off they went around the lake, starting to fish along with their helpers and freemason fishing casting team. And still the sun shone. We could not have had a more beautiful day. Fish were being caught, big fish were being caught. We could hear cheering, shouting with enjoyment and a good time, a great time, was had by all.

Dinner time arrived and guess what? We all had burgers and bangers in a bun, crisps and fruit. Done perfectly if I say so myself and as far as I'm aware, I haven't poisoned anybody with my cooking!! After dinner, we were supposed to give out the prizes, but oh no. The fishermen and their participants went back out to fish and caught more fish. We could not stop them fishing. In the end, we had to gather them all in by the whistle and start presenting a cup for the biggest fish, medals and certificates and photos as you can see below. Prizes were presented by Assistant Provisional Grand Master Wayne Williams.

Personally and I know my fellow brethren and helpers, got tremendous satisfaction from the day. Again, a great day - the sun shone.

We will be organizing another event later on in the year.

Thank you to all that have helped and all the people behind the scenes as well as the Saint John's ambulance personnel.

Posted Date: 26th May 2010