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Freemasons donate £500 to Welfare and Support hub for Veterans

From left to right: RW Bro Stephen Hookey, Provincial Grand Master, Mr Barry John MBE, Founder of the VC Gallery and W Bro Tim MacMahon, WM of Cleddau Lodge

Cleddau Lodge was delighted to welcome Barry John of Haverfordwest VC Gallery to their meeting on Wednesday 15th November 2017. Barry gave an entertaining talk about the work of the VC Gallery and his own journey from a difficult upbringing in Neyland to be the founder of a successful charity and the recipient of an MBE from His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales.

Cleddau Lodge was delighted to make a £500 donation to the VC Gallery, which Barry received with grateful thanks. Also in attendance was the Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro Stephen Hookey, who is a member of Cleddau Lodge.

VETERANS & THE COMMUNITY

The VC Gallery is a registered Charity based in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire. They help service veterans and those in the wider community through engagement in art projects. They passionately believe that art and culture can improve health, well-being and overall quality of life.

Most of our service personnel fair well after leaving the armed forces, suffering no ill effects, entering full-time employment and leading meaningful and fulfilling lives.

However, some veterans need support to readjust back to civilian life. The VC Gallery is a ‘single point of access’ Welfare and Support hub for veterans. In addition, it is a signposting and referral service; community social hub; a charity working in partnership with public and third-sector agencies as well as specialised national charities.

Click here to read all about the great work they do.