What a spectacular year 2025 has been for the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF, the Freemasons’ charity). As we close the books on four major Provincial Festivals, we are left in awe not just by the staggering amounts raised, but by the creativity, endurance, and spirit shown by Freemasons and their families across the country.

From the peaks of Kilimanjaro to the slow-but-steady hum of a ride-on lawnmower, the dedication shown by Dorset, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, and East Kent has been nothing short of inspiring. Together, these four Provinces have raised a combined total of over £9.7 million for the MCF.

Here is a look back at the highlights of these incredible campaigns.

Dorset: Innovation in Lockdown

Concluded: April 2025 Total Raised: £1,273,920

Dorset kicked off the 2025 completions with a fantastic total exceeding £1.2 million, driven by both craftsmanship and collective endurance. One of the standout individual efforts came from W Bro Brian Barton, who made and presented over 600 nautical Cable Tows to Lodges across the country and around the world, raising well over £17,000 in the process. The Province also displayed incredible resilience during the isolation of lockdown; Lodges competed in a virtual walk from Dorset to Great Queen Street and back. Eventually, they walked a combined distance of 3,672 miles, adding over £7,000 to the Festival total.

Derbyshire: A Family Affair at 19,000 Feet

Concluded: September 2025 Total Raised: £1,780,218

Derbyshire concluded their Festival in September with a robust £1.78 million pot, but the headline story is one of family legacy and extreme determination. Frank Milner of Pioneer Lodge No. 9065 proved that age is no barrier to adventure by summiting Mt Kilimanjaro on his 82nd birthday, making him one of the oldest people ever to do so. This was a true three-generation event; Frank was accompanied by ten friends, two of his grandsons, and two of his sons – including the party leader, Sean Milner of Musket, Pike & Drum Lodge No. 9906. It was a remarkable feat that took fundraising to new heights.

Lincolnshire: Breaking Records

Concluded: September 2025 Total Raised: £3,013,302

Lincolnshire did not just hit their target; they smashed records to raise over £3 million. Most notably, they achieved the highest average per capita ever for an MCF Festival at £1,001 per member. This financial milestone was supported by immense physical challenges, including Chris Jones’ ‘Around Britain Walk’, which saw him become the most successful individual fundraiser for the MCF. Additionally, a group of Lincolnshire Freemasons and friends climbed more than 48,000 feet – over nine miles of vertical ascent – conquering Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, and the UK’s Three National Peaks to raise over £20,000.

East Kent: From Lawnmowers to Model Boats

Concluded: November 2025 Total Raised: £3,673,582

Rounding out the year, East Kent announced a massive total of over £3.6 million, achieved through some of the most unique and eccentric challenges of the year. The “Bourne to Ride” challenge saw Freemason Colin North ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats on a ride-on lawnmower – a testament to patience and dedication. The Province also kept spirits high during lockdown with the Provincial Boating Challenge. Members bought and assembled model boat kits at home, and once restrictions allowed, met at various seaside locations to launch them, with the boat travelling the furthest declared the winner.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To every person who walked, climbed, built, or simply donated – thank you. These funds will go on to support the vital work of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, helping those in need across society.