The Wigan and Leigh Group were pleased to complete their annual Summer Walk. In previous years this event has taken the form of a canal walk, but this year the group decided to add a new dimension by visiting the National Memorial Arboretum; combining the walk with a fundraising effort and an opportunity to explore the site’s rich and poignant memorial gardens.

Over 35 Masons, along with partners and family from across our four halls joined the day, travelling together on a coach kindly arranged by Ogden Travel, departing from Bryn at 8am. Upon arrival at the Arboretum, walkers received a welcome and introduction to the site, including a summary of its history and guidance on key points of interest.
With over 400 memorials spread across 150 acres, the group split into smaller parties to explore the grounds at their own pace. The weather was kind, being milder than the intense heat earlier in the week, making for pleasant walking conditions.
A particular highlight was the Masonic Memorial Garden, sponsored by UGLE during the Tercentenary celebrations. The garden is striking, framed by two imposing pillars and featuring perfect ashlars atop a chequerboard pavement. It stands in solemn tribute to those members of the Craft who passed to higher service in the line of duty. Other moving stops included the Armed Forces Memorial, Shot at Dawn Memorial, and the Remembrance Centre, each offering powerful reflection. Some walkers were able to locate tributes to comrades they had once served alongside, adding a deeply personal note to the day.

The site’s facilities were excellent, with many taking the opportunity to ride the road train for a narrated tour of select memorials. The on-site cafe offered a well-earned pause, moving from labour to refreshment. Following their time at the Arboretum, the group re-boarded the coach for a social afternoon in the nearby cathedral city of Lichfield, with time to explore the sights and enjoy the local hospitality.
Thanks to the generous support of lodges and chapters within the group, the event has already raised around £1,000 for good causes, with further contributions expected in the new Masonic year. This was a truly memorable day, bringing together charitable spirit, remembrance and fraternity, and showcasing Wigan and Leigh Masons at their best.