On Friday 28th November, five charities from across Merthyr Tydfil County Borough received generous donations from three Lodges and one Royal Arch Chapter meeting at Merthyr Tydfil Masonic Hall: Loyal Cambrian Lodge No. 110, North Glamorgan Lodge No. 4055, Aelwyd Lodge No. 7982, and David Rees Lewis Chapter No. 110.
The evening began with a welcoming drinks reception for VIPs, dignitaries, and invited guests within the historic surroundings of Merthyr Masonic Hall. Visitors were captivated by the rich history and character of the building, sparking many conversations and questions before the formalities commenced.
Once assembled in the Temple, W.Bro. Neil Martin Evans warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, including:
- The Lord Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil, Cllr. Paula Layton
- The High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan, Sharon Dickson
- Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Mid Glamorgan, Jeff Edwards
- Former High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan, Maria Thomas
- Past Lord Lieutenant & Past Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. Captain Sir Norman Lloyd Edwards
- Rotary Club Representative, Colin Parker
- Merthyr Historian, Huw Williams
Along with numerous local business leaders, supporters, and friends of Freemasonry.
An insightful and engaging talk was delivered by W.Bro. Neil Davies, who outlined the history of Loyal Cambrian Lodge and highlighted notable Freemasons past and present. His address reflected the openness and transparency that modern Freemasonry embraces.
Charitable Presentations
Each charity representative expressed sincere gratitude, sharing how their organisations support the people of Merthyr Tydfil and how the donations will make a meaningful difference.
The following donations were presented:
- £2,000 to the Mayor’s Appeal, presented to the Lord Mayor, Cllr. Paula Layton, by three brethren and one companion representing 3 Lodges and one Chapter who contributed £500.00 each. W.Bro. David Rees, (Loyal Cambrian Lodge) W.Bro. Gethyn Thomas, (North Glamorgan) W.Bro. Wayne Barnett, (Aelwyd) and. E.Comp. Matthew McCarthy, (David Rees Lewis Chapter)
- £2,100 to Macmillan Cancer Support Merthyr Tydfil, presented to Area Coordinator Barbara Michael by W.Bro. David Rees of Loyal Cambrian Lodge.
- £500 to Visually Impaired Merthyr Tydfil (VIM), presented to charity head Dr. Morgan Evans by W.Bro. Wayne Morgan of Loyal Cambrian Lodge.
- £500 to Twynrodyn Community Hub, presented to Cllr. Declan Sammon presented by W.Bro. Wayne Morgan.
- £250 to Merthyr Performance Company, presented to little Eleri Davies, who looks forward to attending the organisation’s classes. The donation was proudly handed over by her grandfather, W.Bro. Wayne Morgan.
Following the presentations, everyone retired to the dining hall to enjoy a superb buffet. The relaxed atmosphere allowed members, guests, and charity representatives to meet, share experiences, and strengthen community ties.
The event highlighted not only the generous charitable spirit of local Freemasons but also the opportunity to showcase the work they do within the community, an evening that celebrated charity, engagement, and positive impact across Merthyr Tydfil.
