Whilst preparing for his year in the chair of the Lodge of St George No 5978, WBro Andy Moore decided he would like to undertake a charity event that would get people talking. Having previously completed several long walks he concluded that a cross-country, East to West coast walk would fit the bill.
His team included Bro Oliver Diggins (Lodge of Protection), WBro William Diggins and Bro Danny Hunt (all of the Lodge of St George) and a designated driver, Bro Jimmy Diggins (Lodge of St George).
Setting off at 5.30 am on Saturday 22 February they drove to Newcastle and started walking westwards at 11 am. They walked for an average of 7½ hours a day but one day walked for over 12 hours, covering nearly 27 miles in poor weather and even worse terrain.
Conditions in the Northumberland National Park and into Cumbria were very bad – not much rain, but soggy and marsh-like underfoot. In fact the week prior to their walk, a car had been washed away and many parts of their path were closed, with long diversions. For much of their walk they were drenched and muddy but in high spirits.
They completed the 84 mile walk in five days, on Wednesday 26 February. They walked an extra three miles due to diversions (and dubious map reading) making a total of 87 miles.
The journey was an incredibly emotional one; each time a walker struggled the rest rallied round and showed the true meaning of brotherhood. The support and companionship were fantastic - showing the true meaning of Freemasonry.
With donations and pledges still coming in, their efforts have so far raised over £2,000 for Lifelites and The Lowdown.