An evening of pool, darts and pizzas was enjoyed when a group of motorcycling freemasons organised a games night for ex-service men and women who are integrating into the community after serving in the armed forces.
The visit to AF&V Launchpad (Avondale House) in the Byker area of Newcastle was arranged by Ian Noble, President of The Northumberland Chapter of the Widows Son’s Masonic Bikers Association.
Launchpad provides veterans with accommodation (their own refurbished, one-bedroom flat) and communal facilities, for which they pay rent, either using housing benefit or income or savings, for up to two years. The charity aims to get its veterans into employment and permanent housing, and contributing to society within two years.
We are delighted to have been able to help in a small way with the veteran’s integration back into Civvie Street by providing pizzas, gateaux and good company for the games night. We hope it will be the first of many.
Ian Noble
The Widows Sons is open to all Freemasons who enjoy the sport of motorcycling and together they help to raise awareness of the work of the organisation as well as raising much needed funds for charity. Last year, they took part in the organisation of the Greggs Children’s Cancer Run, raised funds for IT equipment for special schools, donated to The Dragonfly Trust for Cancer and supported Northumberland Blood Bikes.