Partridge Lakes near Warrington was the perfect venue for the Masonic Fishing Charity of West Lancashire to work with Merefield School of Southport, and what a great day the West Lancashire Branch of the Masonic Fishing Charity had at Partridge Lakes.
A warm and bright Thursday in early June was the perfect setting for 14 students of Merefield School to practise their casting skills. Secretary and Safety Officer of the Masonic Fishing Charity Bob Malcolm, said that the charity was honoured by the presence of David Hickman and Paul Duncalf from Old Priory Lodge No 6362 of the Mersey Valley Group, who came to present the branch with a trophy in memory of one of the volunteer casters, Allan Spain, who sadly passed away in 2025.
The charity was also delighted to welcome Assistant Provincial Grand Master John Murphy and Mersey Valley Group Chairman David Atkinson, who had both attended to present the students with Masonic Fishing Charity medals and certificates when the fishing was done and all students and carers from the school, with their volunteer casters, had all eaten their lunches. Additionally, John and David wished to be part of the remembrance of Allan Spain, whom they had both known very well. It was nice to be in attendance at the presentation of the memorial trophy, which took place just prior to the students from Merefield School arriving in the bus.
Bob Malcolm stated that the fishing was probably the best they had ever seen at Partridge Lakes, with various fish being landed by all the students, including fish that were caught by three youngsters who rely solely on their wheelchairs to get about. There was a variation of small bream, dace and chub being caught, but the students were surprised to catch a number of carp. Five of which were in excess of 4lb in weight and two were probably 6lb. The cheering from each student when they eventually got the fish into their landing nets was a joy to behold.
Both John Murphy and David Atkinson said that it is a pity you can’t bottle this amount of enjoyment and let all the Freemasons in our Province see it; you certainly wouldn’t have to request any donations. If anyone would like to support the Masonic Fishing Charity, please contact the treasurer, Dan Mitchell. His email address is: janettamitchell0706@gmail.com
Anyone wishing to make an online donation can do so by sending it to:
Account Name: Masonic Fishing Charity – West Lancashire Branch
Sort Code: 30:84:85 Account No 33026360. Please add a reference, (eg, lodge name and number).
The Masonic Fishing Charity of West Lancashire is a branch of the Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity, a national organization that provides interactive fishing and countryside experiences for people with special needs. They organize fishing events for individuals with mental and physical disabilities, those who are disadvantaged, or have experienced trauma. These events are volunteer-run and aim to boost participants’ confidence and provide a sense of achievement. To find out more about the charity, click here.
