Following the very successful test days carried out during 2025 it has been agreed to roll the programme forward to 2026 and if necessary beyond that year. These days have been running for 8 years and over that period of time literately hundreds of men have been tested and the results show that numerous cancers have been diagnosed and treated. It goes without saying that the programme has been a remarkable success, saving lives and catching cancers early so that treatment can commence and recovery made.
The Province of Suffolk has supported the programme since the beginning and it is their support that has made the last 3 years testing viable to all Masons as costs have inevitably risen. The support not only comes in the form of the various Masonic Halls being made available, at no cost, but a financial one as well.
This financial support to our Brethren has made the difference, without it the numbers being tested would, I am sure, fall and the programme would not have had the impact it undoubtedly has had. Thanks are extended to the Provincial Treasurer and Charity Steward for their continued support. Part of the test days is to enable our communities to participate and this has proved very successful, the feedback being very positive with the service provided and the venues used.
The last 8 years have seen some remarkable medical stories, all of which are strictly private, but the recipients of this programme are more than thankful that it has been and will continue to be an annual event in our Masonic calendar.
2026 dates for you diary ;
Felixstowe 18th May Ipswich 22nd September Bury 28th September
Lowestoft 5th October .
All 16.30 hrs – 17.30 hrs
All of the Brethren tested should now be in the 1-2 or 3 year re-test programme and will be called automatically when a further test is due. However book these dates in your diary, tell your family, friends, workmates and the local communities that these test days are running even though the Government have failed to agree a National Screening Programme.
Trevor Tinley – Event Organiser