Centenary RAC 819 B.B.Q.

Supported by Trillick RAC 58 & Lodges 58, 220, 277, 315 & 819

On Sat 4 June over 100 masons and their friends gathered at the Lough Erne Yacht Club for a fund raising barbecue. Ederney RAC 819 in their centenary year, assisted by members of Trillick RAC and the craft Lodges of Ballinamallard, Pettigo, Irvinestown, Ederney and Trillick made the arrangements for the event.

The fine weather and the splendid setting beside the lake gave the event a wonderful start. The caterer, Rose Gilroy, provided a delicious meal that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

The music was provided by John McGarrity which allowed folk to relax after the meal. During a music break a raffle was held, where the proceeds were divided between two very worthy charities: Teddies for Loving Care and the Boost programme for mental Health.

The Teddies for Loving Care is a Masonic charity which provides teddies in each of the A& E Hospitals in the country to help comfort distressed children who are admitted for treatment. Doctors testify as to the benefits of a doctor or nurse being able to hand over a Teddie to a child in order to gain their trust, which enables them to proceed with the treatment. Appreciation was expressed for the generosity of those who bought tickets, but also to all the sponsors who provided some very generous prizes - meal vouchers, shopping vouchers, bottles of wine, etc..

The BOOST programme is run for young people, at the Drumcoo Centre in Enniskillen, who are suffering from depression or mental health problems. This silent illness has no less an impact than physical disabilities and is so often born alone because of the stigma attached to the illness.

£1,500 was raised divided between the two charities £1000 to BOOST and £500 to Teddies for Loving Care.