£2,376 Donated to Rosemere Cancer Foundation

A special celebration at Carnarvon Lodge No. 2376 became an opportunity to give back, as two of the Lodge’s most senior and respected members marked an extraordinary shared milestone.

In 2025, Stuart Cowburn and Allan Scott both celebrated 60 years in Freemasonry as members of Carnarvon Lodge. To mark the occasion, they chose to make a joint charitable donation of £2,376 to the Rosemere Cancer Foundation, a cause that holds deep personal meaning for them both.

The donation amount was deliberately chosen to reflect the Lodge number itself, symbolising the central role Carnarvon Lodge has played in their lives over six decades.

“Allan suggested we do something together,” said Stuart Cowburn. “When the idea of using the Lodge number came up, it just felt right. Carnarvon Lodge has given us so much over the years.”

A Charity with Personal Significance

For both men, Rosemere is not simply a charity they support, but one that has supported them and their families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Stuart Cowburn has himself received treatment supported by Rosemere and has long been involved in fundraising for the Foundation through Freemasonry.

“The care I received was exceptional,” Stuart said. “It’s not just the treatment. It’s the people, the atmosphere and the reassurance they give you at a time when you really need it. Rosemere has always been a charity I wanted to support.”

For Allan Scott, the connection is equally profound. Several members of his family have been cared for by Rosemere, including his late wife Alice and his daughter, who underwent a major operation.

“When we talked about making a donation, there was never any doubt in my mind,” Allan said. “Rosemere looked after my wife, my daughter and other family members. It’s a charity that means a great deal to me, and I wanted this donation to go somewhere it would truly be appreciated.”

Marking a Lifetime of Brotherhood

The cheque was formally presented in December, with members reflecting on how fitting it was that a milestone rooted in brotherhood, commitment and service should result in support for a charity dedicated to care and compassion.

Adam Dennett, Charity Steward of Carnarvon Lodge, said the donation perfectly captured the spirit of the occasion.

“Stuart and Allan have each given 60 years of service to Freemasonry and to this Lodge,” he said. “To see them choose to mark that milestone by supporting Rosemere speaks volumes about their character and about what Freemasonry stands for.”

He added, “The fact that the donation amount reflects the Lodge number makes it even more meaningful. It is a simple gesture, but one full of symbolism and heart.”

Sue Swire, fundraising manager for Rosemere Cancer Foundation, who received the donation from Allan, Stuart and lodge charity steward Adam Dennett, said: “To reach a diamond anniversary is a very rare and incredible achievement.

“Allan and Stuart must have helped to raise many thousands of pounds for many different charities over their years as freemasons. We’re delighted that when it came to celebrating their 60th anniversary, they chose to support Rosemere Cancer Foundation and can assure them that their donation will go towards projects bringing real benefit to local people currently going through cancer treatment.”

 

A Lasting Impact

The £2,376 donation will support Rosemere Cancer Foundation’s ongoing work to provide enhanced cancer care across Lancashire and South Cumbria. For Carnarvon Lodge, it stands as a powerful reminder that Freemasonry’s values are lived through action, generosity and a desire to make a positive difference.

For Stuart Cowburn and Allan Scott, it is a fitting way to mark 60 years of friendship, service and shared commitment, while helping ensure that others receive the care and support that meant so much to them and their families.

Carnarvon Lodge No. 2376 is part of the Chorley and Leyland Group of Lodges in the Province of West Lancashire