Freemasons in Bury, Radcliffe and Rawtenstall have just completed an amazing ‘Christmas Teddies Campaign’ selling TLC Appeal Fundraising Teddy Bears across the District.
The TLC Appeal, helps distressed children that are unfortunate enough to find themselves in Hospital Accident and Emergency units or in Hospices, by providing them with multi-coloured TLC Charity Teddy Bears, free of charge, Since 2001 this programme has provided over 2.5 million Charity Teddy Bears to over 250 Hospitals and Hospices across England and Wales.
David R. Brown of Earl of Lathom Lodge came up with the idea of this special Christmas Appeal whereby Bury District Charity Stewards supported by other Brethren and by staff at Hewlett Court, came together in a great team effort and have sold a staggering 500 Fundraising Bears raising over £1300. 

Everyone involved can be proud that their efforts; enthusiasm and commitment have provided this extra support for charitable causes in our local communities, in line with the Grand Principles of Freemasonry.
Congratulations to everyone who helped make this campaign a resounding success – yet another great example of ‘Freemasonry In Action’.
For those Brethren that have not already done so, you can further support the TLC Appeal on-going, by buying a TLC teddy lapel badge, which comes in a variety of designs, for just £2, available from your Charity Steward.

Report by Craig Hindle