ELMC Annual General Meeting 2025
Tuesday 16th September – Stanley House, Audenshaw
The Annual General Meeting of the East Lancashire Masonic Charity (ELMC) was held at Stanley House, Audenshaw, on Tuesday 16th September 2025. The meeting was well attended by members and supporters.
The President opened proceedings by welcoming all present and thanking them for their ongoing support of the ELMC. Before the formal business of the AGM commenced, attendees enjoyed two insightful presentations from recipients of ELMC grants awarded during 2024. The President reminded members that their contributions make a tangible difference to the lives of many individuals and organisations, and it was a privilege to have beneficiaries present in person.
Presentations
Rochdale Children’s Moorland Home
The first presentation came from representatives of Rochdale Children’s Moorland Home, who had successfully applied for and received an ELMC grant to purchase equipment to support the provision of healthy meals for the children in their care.
Representing the Home were:
- Bob Sterling – Secretary
- Peter Malcom – Committee Member
- Garry Bradbury – Committee Member
They outlined the Home’s two key functions:
- Providing services and facilities for school children during term time.
- Supporting children referred by social care, schools, and community groups during school holidays.
They also shared a brief history of the Home’s establishment and its continuing role in serving children from the local community.
Miss Thea Bentley
The second presentation was delivered by Miss Thea Bentley, a recipient of an Education Fund grant. At age 15, Thea was selected to represent the North West Region at a prestigious international S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programme in Florida during the summer of 2024.
As a Ranger Guide with the 21st Rochdale Rangers Unit in Littleborough, Thea had the opportunity to attend the Women in Space/Science event and visit the Kennedy Space Centre. She also visited the Orlando Science Centre and the American Space Museum.
Thea shared her inspiring experiences with members, bringing along memorabilia from her trip and discussing her ambitions for the future. Her presentation was warmly received and generated much interest and conversation following the meeting.
Formal Business
Following the presentations, the formal AGM business commenced and was conducted smoothly, including the appointment of members to the ELMC Board of Directors and its various committees for the forthcoming year.
Closing Remarks
In closing, the President expressed his pride in serving as President of this remarkable Charity. He thanked all members for their support, emphasised the importance of the ELMC’s work, and invited everyone to enjoy the refreshments provided.
