The Province of Devonshire Family Fun Day 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together Brethren from across the Province along with their families and friends for a day filled with joy, entertainment, and delicious food. Hosted at the picturesque W.Bro Denis Arden’s Farm in Exeter on the August Bank Holiday Sunday, the event drew an impressive crowd of over 300 attendees, creating an atmosphere buzzing with excitement and camaraderie.
Organized by the dedicated 300 Club team—W.Bros David Wilson, Paul Watson, and Steve Turton—on behalf of the Provincial Grand Master, the day was a testament to the spirit of community and togetherness. Guests were treated to a full slate of musical performances, while both the young and the young-at-heart enjoyed a variety of thrilling rides and activities.
The culinary highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Hog Roast, expertly prepared by Steve Turton and his wife Jill, which was eagerly devoured by attendees. Denis Arden graciously stepped in when the roast ran out, offering an additional 200 venison burgers from his freezer, with the assistance of his son Chris Arden and the ever-helpful Arden family.
In true Masonic tradition, W.Bro Brian Sargeant delighted the crowd with his locomotive ride, W.Bro David Goode brought smiles to the faces of youngsters with his balloon creations, and W.Bro Gerald Sclater tirelessly promoted and sold merchandise for the Teddies for Loving Care Appeal.
W. Bro Trevor Deadfield from Rolle Lodge No. 2759, along with his wife, accompanied 14 disadvantaged youngsters under the care of the Advanced Support Group. In true Masonic spirit, their entrance was graciously covered by the Province. The feedback from the group was overwhelmingly positive; they expressed that they had a wonderful day, felt safe, and would love to return next year. They extended their heartfelt thanks to everyone involved for their support.
A standout moment of the day occurred when the Plymouth Morris Dancers invited the Provincial Grand Master and this year’s Wardens, W.Bros Andy Hall and Georges Adroit, to join in their dance—a ritual that, despite their best efforts, may take some time to master!
The event perfectly encapsulated our PGM’s vision of fostering unity among the brethren and their families, and plans for next year’s Family Fun Day are already underway, promising even more excitement and community spirit.
A heartfelt thank you goes to W.Bro Denis Arden and his wife Arlene for their generous hospitality and the invaluable support of their family, which ensured the day was nothing short of wonderful.
W. Bro Steve Turton
Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works