Priory Gate Lodge No. 8202 has risen to the challenge of raising as much as possible for the Surrey 2030 Festival by creating a new annual event for its calendar, a BBQ and Race Night.

Under the direction of W Bro Mark Malone, PProvGStwd, the team called upon personal contacts to secure the use of Vandals Rugby Club free of charge. National Race Night was then booked to provide an entertaining evening of horse racing and betting, with all proceeds contributing to the fundraising effort.

Members of Priory Gate also organised a barbecue, raffle and auction. Together with the proceeds from the racing, the event raised an impressive £7,500 and helped the Lodge achieve its Bronze Festival Award.

The event has continued to grow in popularity. Its first year attracted 85 members, family and friends, while the second event, held in June 2026, welcomed 125 guests.

Priory Gate’s fundraising efforts also attracted coverage on Radio Jackie’s Breakfast Show, helping to raise awareness of the event and highlighting the valuable contribution Surrey Freemasons make in support of charitable causes and the community.

The team is now determined to make the event even bigger and more successful in 2027.

The next Priory Gate BBQ and Race Night will take place on Saturday, 10 July 2027.

Good luck to everyone at Priory Gate, what a terrific fundraising achievement!