Pedalling for a Purpose: How the Durham Masonic Cycling Club is Driving Change
Cycling is a brilliant way to stay fit and build strong camaraderie. For nearly a decade, the Durham Freemasons have proven just that, with their annual cycle rides bringing together over 25 participants each year. Beyond the physical challenge, their efforts raise vital funds for charity, creating a lasting positive impact on their local community.
We spoke with Gavin Rowell, Provincial Grand Charity Steward for Durham Freemasons and head of the Durham Masonic Cycling Club, to learn more.
Gavin and his good friend Steven Piercy have spearheaded the annual cycle rides since 2017, when the initial event was launched to raise funds for the Durham 2021 Festival Appeal, generating £25,000. Following that initial success, the event evolved into a vibrant mini community that organises annual rides, open to cyclists of all abilities.
This September, 34 riders and a four-person support team are set to take on the famous Coast and Castles route from Durham to Edinburgh in aid of the Durham 2032 Festival Appeal. They will set off from Heel & Toe, a local charity that supports children with physical disabilities. Heel & Toe is being supported through the new Community Fund programme, which aims to help Provinces build stronger relationships with local charities while creating new opportunities for Freemasons to support community projects through volunteering, fundraising and practical assistance. In addition to fundraising, members of the Durham Freemasons regularly volunteer with the charity, highlighting their hands-on commitment to the local area.
The journey begins with a stop at the Scarbrough Court Care home, where riders will enjoy lunch and spend time with residents. Following the coastline, they will conclude their first day in Alnwick. Day two sees the group travel up towards the England–Scotland border at Berwick-upon-Tweed, passing the iconic Bamburgh Castle along the way. On the final leg, the cyclists will ride into Edinburgh, finishing at the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
We encourage everyone to take part and enjoy themselves. We support each other every step of the way—both during preparation and on the ride itself. People ride at different paces, but no one is ever left behind.
Last year, the club cycled from the Humber to Durham, stopping at North Tees Hospital to deliver the four-millionth teddy bear on behalf of Teddies for Loving Care (TLC). Alongside this milestone, the ride raised approximately £30,000 for TLC, helping bring comfort to young children during daunting hospital visits.
For anyone looking to organise a similar event, Gavin’s top advice is to start planning early. Early preparation allows ample time to map routes, arrange accommodation, and set up donation platforms. Gavin recommends using Freemasonry Gives, which directs donations straight to the Festival via the Relief Chest scheme, a powerful tool that can boost donations by 25 per cent through Gift Aid.
We are immensely grateful to Gavin and the entire Durham Masonic Cycling Club for their dedication, and we wish them the best of luck on their ride this September.
FIND OUT MORE OR SUPPORT THE TEAM ON THEIR UPCOMING RIDE HERE
Additional Information
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT THE FREEMASONS’ CHARITY’S WORK HERE
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE GRANTS AWARDED TO CHARITIES ON BEHALF OF FREEMASONS HERE
