More than 60 carers were given a special lunch by Beaconsfield Freemasons (From Bucks Free Press)

More than 60 carers were given a special lunch by Beaconsfield Freemasons

11:11am Tuesday 1st December 2009

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CHRISTMAS came early for more than 60 community heroes when Beaconsfield Freemasons put on a special lunch to mark the efforts of unpaid family carers in South Bucks.

The carers, who look after people with a disability, illness or frailty were given a “slap-up” three course meal at the Beaconsfield Masonic Centre in Windsor End on Sunday.

Deborah Kenyon, of Bank Road, Penn, who cares for her elderly mother Kathleen Swain said: “Today's lunch was good fun and provided a wonderful opportunity to speak to other carers, and also to meet the people who run Carers Bucks, who know exactly what you are going through.

“People don’t realise how draining it can be bearing responsibility for another person. It’s always at the back of your mind, no matter what you are doing."

Entertainment was provided by ukulele musician Ron Smiley and singer Alan Mawbey.

Ann Whiteley, manager of the charity Carers Bucks which offers advice and support to family carers, and who nominated people for the lunch, said: “It was a lovely thought for Beaconsfield Freemasons to help our carers unwind for an afternoon.

“Many of the carers had never met before. It was important for them to realise they are not alone, and that we are here to support them.”

The initiative is part a programme to encourage Freemasons to directly aid people in their own localities.

The deputy head of Bucks Freemasons, Clifford Drake, says: “Congratulations to all concerned. I was particularly pleased to learn that one of the guests, John McKiernon, who now lives in Bledlow Ridge and is a wheel chair user, enjoyed a trip down memory lane.

“He was born in Windsor End, and attended the Old Church School, where the Beaconsfield Masonic Centre now stands.”

One of the organisers, Sean Boardman, of Red Lion Way, Wooburn Green, said: “Freemasonry is about friendship, decency, and charity.

“So we could think of no better project than paying tribute to carers, who are the heroes of our community.

“Our goal was to give the guests an afternoon off from the 24/7 pressures of caring for a loved one.”

Anyone who is caring for someone in a voluntary capacity can contact Bucks Carers on 01494 463536.

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