Military Veterans Drive In Garden Parties 2025
Report: “1,500 miles, 1,500 smiles, Impact & Networking”
Author: W. Bro Jamie Gwatkin (Suffolk Freemason)
This September, The Not Forgotten, in proud partnership with Freemasons across England, delivered five spectacular Drive-In Concerts, bringing music, joy, and connection to hundreds of veterans living with injury, illness, and isolation. Hosted at Lulworth Castle (Dorset Freemasons), Brinsop Court Manor House (Herefordshire
Freemasons), Syon Park (Middlesex Freemasons), Idlerocks Farm (Staffordshire Freemasons), and Grimsthorpe Castle (Lincolnshire Freemasons), these events confirmed why UGLE has recently been awarded the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award for outstanding support to the military community.
Spectacular events at historic venues across the country
The gatherings were held nationwide during the week, with Freemasons in each Province stepping in to assist. The structuring of these events was initiated by Jamie Gwatkin the Second Provincial Grand Principal of Suffolk and one of the UGLE leads for the Armed Forces Covenant.
He engaged with Armed Forces Lodges who jointly organised and led the support at each location. The events were jointly funded by generous donations from each Provincial Charity, the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF), and The Not Forgotten charity. Each of the first-class historic venues were generously supplied by the owners free of charge who even threw in prizes for the raffle.
Freemasons, in their distinctive high-visibility jackets, welcomed veterans, assisted with setup and parking arrangements, served refreshments, distributed meals to attendees, and finally joined in the fun. Catering was provided by Beigel Bar Brick Lane, offering gourmet bagels, vegetarian options, and sweet treats – proving popular with both veterans and Freemasons alike. Entertainment included a Freddie Mercury tribute act, performances by Max Fox of Britain’s Got Talent fame, a lively game of “Singo-Bingo”, and singing from Annie Riley – Entertainments Officer for The Not Forgotten.
A boost to confidence money can’t buy
To many of the veterans attending, this was not just an entertaining afternoon out, it was a mental lift and a boost to confidence money can’t buy. Feeling valued for their service and spending time in a safe, supportive community of other veterans who understand them and their experiences. Others could sit back in the safety of their cars and feel the sense of achievement in simply leaving the house and attending an event.
“The highlight of our year”
For the Masonic volunteers, the most rewarding part was the feedback from the veterans. There were hundreds of reactions and posts on social media after the week, which included:
“It was a fabulous day filled with smiles, music, and connections, and was a reminder of just how important community and shared experiences are. One of the best parts was the atmosphere. People of shared service backgrounds of all different ages enjoying a day together, where no one felt left out or forgotten. There was
definitely a real sense of belonging and I felt really lucky to be part of it”
Story from Staffordshire: Anne and Gaz
Every year, one interaction really highlights why it is so important to deliver these events. Whilst talking to Annie Riley (Entertainments Officer) she said:
“For me, the standout example [in 2025] of the good these events bring was Anne & Gaz, a Mother and Son who have had a horrendous 20 years. Anne explained that Gaz (RAF Veteran) had a car accident 20 years ago and was left with a TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury). She has since spent 20 years fighting for her son’s needs and burst into tears as she told me her story. She felt as though she hadn’t been listened to in 20 years. Rosie Thompson (Head of Events) had already identified this Mother and Son to me before they arrived, as Anne had been having conversations with Karlie in the office, so we were able to get them together with people in their area. I also asked Julia the former High Sheriff to help as she has support networks in the region that
can help……Julia promised to personally visit Anne & Gaz the following week to get things started.
After a wonderful afternoon dancing (Both Mother and Son!) Anne said to me as she was leaving “I feel like it’s the first time in 20 years that I have been heard!” and again burst into tears. Personally, I think as a parent she was worried that Gaz would have no support network if anything happened to her. And thanks to our event, that is no longer the case.”
Flying the flag for Freemasonry
The volunteers and Chains from the five Provinces really flew the flag for our fraternity and interacted with the many dignitaries who were present to publicise the good we do.
Michael Hollard PGM for Herefordshire added “A wonderful day and so pleased that our team of Herefordshire Freemasons could contribute to and support such a great event. Thanks to Beigal Bar Brick Lane for the lunch and all the entertainers for their fantastic repertoire.”
John Lockley PGM for Staffordshire said, “It is a pleasure and a privilege to support our veterans, together with The Not Forgotten am sure they have enjoyed the great entertainment and food here today, I look forward to the next time we can support our Armed Forces.”
Leader of Lincolnshire’s Freemasons Dave Wheeler said: “Well, what a week! Following the fantastic festival result/finale on Saturday, this Grimsthorpe Castle event was a resounding success, with stunning weather, a great venue and top-class entertainment. What a brilliant, happy atmosphere!”
RW Bro Stephen James, PGM for Dorset commented “It was a privilege to welcome our veterans to Lulworth Castle and to stand alongside a charity whose values so closely mirror our own. Dorset Freemasonry remains steadfast in its commitment to honouring service, fostering connection, and ensuring no veteran feels forgotten.”
VW Bro Jim Mitchell, Dep PGM for Middlesex added: “Seeing Middlesex Freemasonry working in harmony with The Not Forgotten Charity was, I am certain, inspiring to all who attended and assisted on the day and, with the planning of the event itself. This charity brings so much joy and support to those who need it and we are very proud to be associated with them.”
The Mayor of Lincolnshire Dame Andrea Jenkyns announced plans for a new Defence hub in the County and was keen to explore avenues which might include the Freemasons in this venture.
Furthermore at Syon Park, Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London, Randeep S Lall DL spoke with the Provincial Team at the event about various opportunities for collaboration.
Final Word
This joint project utilising each party’s skills and network maximised both reach and impact.
Richard Walker CEO of The Not Forgotten said afterwards “We are extremely grateful to the Freemasons for their generosity, hospitality, and boots-on-the-ground support. Together, we’ve not only entertained—we’ve transformed lives. This programme helps to further our joint strategic ambition to engage communities in need and we are committed to helping expand our collective reach and deepen our social impact.”
Roll on 2026……..If any Province would like to register an expression of interest to join this inspiring initiative, please contact Jamie Gwatkin on 01284 386111 (o) 07976 736393 (m) or email:
jamiegwatkin@btinternet.com
