A £9,000 grant from the Middlesex Province Relief Fund is helping a much-loved local club continue providing friendship, laughter and support to adults with additional needs.
For 60 years, the Penrose Club in Ashford, Middlesex, has been making a real difference to the lives of its members. Founded in 1966, the Club has become a welcoming place where friendships flourish, laughter is never far away, and Tuesday evenings are something to look forward to.
Earlier this year, the Middlesex Province Relief Fund (MPRF) awarded the Club a grant of £9,000 to replace the external security shutters at Hengrove House, the Club’s home.
With 54 members and 20 dedicated volunteer helpers, the Penrose Club continues to thrive. Its weekly Tuesday evening gatherings are consistently well attended, offering members the opportunity to socialise, enjoy activities and build lasting friendships in a safe and supportive environment.
And the fun doesn’t stop at Hengrove House! The Club also organises outings throughout the year, with particular favourites including the annual visit to Paultons Theme Park in the New Forest and a relaxing boat trip along the Grand Union Canal in Hertfordshire.
Six Decades of Remarkable Dedication
At the heart of the Penrose Club’s story is W Bro Ray Blowers, a Middlesex Freemason whose involvement stretches right back to the Club’s beginnings in 1966.
Ray has played an extraordinary role in shaping the Club over the past six decades. He was instrumental in securing the funding and overseeing the construction of its impressive clubhouse, helping transform the Penrose Club into the thriving community it is today.
His tireless fundraising efforts, supported over the years by his Mother Lodge, Staines St Mary’s Lodge, have helped ensure the Club can continue delivering its invaluable service to members.
Seeing the Difference First-Hand
Hugh Saville, Chairman of the Middlesex Province Relief Fund, recently visited the Club during one of its Tuesday evening gatherings and witnessed the difference it makes.
It happened to be games night, and the clubhouse was buzzing with activity, conversation and laughter.
“Everyone was so animated and happy. It was a games evening and there was lots of activity and laughter. There’s no question that the Penrose Club is providing something really important and sustaining for its members.”
His visit was a wonderful reminder that the impact of charitable giving goes far beyond bricks, mortar and security shutters. It helps protect places where people feel welcome, valued and part of something special.
As the Penrose Club celebrates its 60th anniversary, Middlesex Freemasonry is delighted to have played a part in supporting its future.
And with dedicated volunteers, enthusiastic members and people like Ray Blowers continuing to champion its work, there’s every reason to believe the laughter will carry on for many years to come.
