Brethren of Dalton-in-Furness Lodge No 6828 have made a generous donation of £100 to St Peter’s Church in Ireleth, offering timely support for the historic building’s roof repair fund. The donation was formally handed over by the lodge’s charity steward, David Baker, to Parish Warden Beverley Louw.
The idea for the donation was put forward by David after he became aware of the deteriorating condition of the church roof through conversations with residents of the community. David proposed the support during a lodge meeting, where it was warmly received and unanimously approved by the brethren.
St Peter’s Church holds a special place in Ireleth. Built in 1859, the church has served as a place of worship, reflection and community gathering for over 160 years. Its stone construction and traditional slate roof have weathered many storms, but time has taken its toll. Significant damage to the roof has led to water ingress, risking the integrity of the historic interior and stained-glass windows.
The cost of the extensive repairs is expected to be substantial and the church has launched an appeal to raise funds. Every contribution is vital. Parish Warden Beverley Louw expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating: “I am over the moon with the lodge’s thoughtful support and wished all the brethren continued success and health.”
The lodge’s £100 donation was drawn from its charity fund, which is sustained through regular raffles, festive boards, social events and member contributions. The fund has supported a range of good causes in recent years, from food banks to youth initiatives and the lodge remains committed to helping wherever there is genuine local need.
While no official connection exists between St Peter’s Church and Dalton-in-Furness Lodge, a number of members have personal ties to the church. Some attend services or community events there and several have family members buried in the adjoining churchyard. There is a shared respect for tradition, service and continuity that resonates deeply with the principles of Freemasonry.
David commented saying: “It’s not just about the building, it’s about what the building represents. For generations, people have come here to celebrate, mourn and reflect. Helping to protect it is our way of honouring that history.” The donation was marked by a small but meaningful photo opportunity, with David and Beverley standing together inside the church, cheque in hand and smiles on their faces.
St Peter’s Church remains a central landmark in Ireleth; from weddings and christenings to concerts and community coffee mornings, it continues to bring people together. As such, the lodge brethren saw the roof appeal as a cause worthy of support, not only to preserve the building but to protect the role it plays in the lives of so many.
Dalton-in-Furness Lodge has a proud tradition of charitable giving and public service. The members, who are drawn from across the Furness area, represent a cross-section of local life and they continue to uphold the Masonic values of integrity, friendship, respect and service.
This act of generosity is a reminder of the quiet but powerful impact that Freemasonry can have in local communities. It is hoped that the donation will not only support much-needed repairs but also encourage further collaboration in the years to come.