It began modestly enough. Back in February, at a presentation for Almoners and Charity Stewards in Knowle, I joined John Kisbey (Chair) and Rachel Keenan (Scheme Manager) to launch an appeal. The aim, to transform a tired old bathroom at Reading Court into a wellness suite; A mini gym designed to support our residents’ health and mobility.

Back then, I optimistically guessed the cost might be around £5,000. The reality, with quotes and compliance factored in, is closer to £23,000. Domestic equipment wouldn’t be insured for communal use, so commercial-grade machines and safety adaptations were required.

Happily, our appeal struck a chord. Rod Hinton, Grand Almoner of Warwickshire Royal Arch, met with his fellow Companions and offered a generous £10,000 donation from the Royal Arch Benevolent Fund. This covered the full cost of refurbishing the room.

The big announcement came at a perfect moment—Reading Court’s summer lunch and the 50th anniversary celebration of the Masonic Housing Association (MHA). In front of a crowd of residents, staff, and Freemasons, Richard Wallis—the man behind the fund – formally opened the suite that now bears his name.

Just ahead of the tape-cutting ceremony, I gathered some interested guests and set off to watch the ceremonial opening on the first floor of Reading Court. The lift was full, and a second group jostled for the next ride upstairs. I made a tactical diversion and led my small group up the stairs. As we got closer to the suite, it resembled a scene from a tube station, only this time filled: wall to wall with Freemasons.

But the job isn’t finished yet.
As John Kisbey explained to our Provincial Grand Master and Oliver Lodge, Chair of the Masonic Housing Association, the room is ready, but we still need funds for the commercial gym equipment before residents can start using it. Thankfully, more Lodges have stepped forward.

Howe Lodge made a kind contribution. Jephson Lodge, now closing its doors after 104 years, used part of its remaining charity funds to purchase a rowing machine. Their name will be displayed on a plaque, permanently placed above the machine. A fitting legacy. The main wall in the gym will be used to display the names of all Lodges, orders and individuals who have so generously contributed.

For further details or to offer assistance, please get in touch with Alan Smith  alansmithgulf@gmail.com