On Saturday 23 August 2025, two Freemasons of the Chorley and Leyland Group, Paul Wharton-Hardman, a past master of Leyland St Andrew’s Lodge No 7391, and Luke Walton, demonstrated both courage and commitment to charity in dramatic fashion.
The intrepid duo accepted a challenge to leap from 11,000 feet in a tandem skydive in aid of St Catherine’s Hospice at the Black Knights Parachute Centre at Cockerham near Lancaster. They were joined by Paul’s husband and Mayoral Consort, Chris, who bravely completed the jump alongside them. Between them, the trio has already raised over £5,000 for St Catherine’s Hospice, which provides vital palliative and end-of-life care to patients and families across Lancashire.
For Paul, the day carried a double honour, not only was he representing Freemasonry as Vice Chairman of Chorley and Leyland Group, but he also participated in his public role as Mayor of South Ribble. His civic duties, combined with his Masonic principles of brotherhood and relief, gave the event a special significance.
When asked about it, Paul had this to say: “As Freemasons, we are taught the importance of standing together and helping others. Sharing this experience with Luke and yes, incidentally also as Mayor of South Ribble, made it a truly memorable day. Standing in the doorway of a plane at 11,000 feet was one of the most terrifying moments of my life, but knowing that we were doing it for such a worthy cause, and with the support of my Masonic brethren, made it one of the most uplifting as well. To have raised over £5,000 for St Catherine’s is a fantastic outcome.”
David Bishop, Chairman of Chorley and Leyland Group, came along to lend his support and said: “It was inspiring to see two of our brethren, Paul and Luke, supported by Chris, take on such a bold challenge in aid of St Catherine’s Hospice. Their efforts reflect the very best of Freemasonry, courage, unity and above all, charity. They have shown that whether in the lodge room or 11,000 feet in the air, we are united in our determination to support others.”
Luke Walton added: “Freemasonry is about facing challenges together. Whether it’s raising funds in lodge or stepping into the unknown at 11,000 feet, it’s the brotherhood we share that makes it possible. This was an experience I’ll never forget, and one that proves our values are alive in everything we do.”
The Chorley and Leyland Group, part of the Province of West Lancashire, has a proud history of supporting charitable causes, and this event highlights the modern, outward-looking face of Freemasonry, combining tradition with imaginative new ways of fundraising and community service.
