Over 50 people gathered for a wonderful afternoon of friendship, laughter and delicious food, as ‘The Chains and Wives’ hosted a highly successful Afternoon Tea in support of the 2027 MBF Festival.

The event was a fantastic example of what can be achieved when everyone comes together for a good cause. The afternoon tea was lovingly prepared and organised by ‘The Chains and Wives’, with a delicious selection of homemade sandwiches, freshly baked scones served with jam and cream, and a delightful array of savouries and mini patisserie cakes. Special thanks must go to W Bro. John Roberts and W Bro. Bob Sagoo, who generously donated a selection of the beautifully presented cakes and patisserie.

There was certainly no shortage of refreshments! Guests enjoyed plenty of Prosecco and cordials, alongside a seemingly endless supply of tea, all served from a wonderfully colourful collection of traditional and decorative teapots. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with the excellent food and good company, made for a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon.

As the afternoon came to a close, everyone was presented with a goodie bag containing a selection of items to take home. This thoughtful touch also helped ensure that very little went to waste, with the generosity and organisation of the team making the whole event both enjoyable and remarkably efficient.

We are delighted to hope that the afternoon will have raised in excess of £1,000 for the 2027 MBF Festival. This is a fantastic result and a wonderful contribution towards the Festival’s fundraising efforts.

The success of the afternoon was very much down to the hard work and enthusiasm of everyone involved, from those who planned and prepared the food and of course, everyone who came along and supported the event.

We were also delighted to welcome and be served by:

• W. Bro. Andrew R. Armbrister, Provincial Grand Master
• Bro. Howard L. Smith, Deputy Provincial Grand Master
• Bro. Ian Belsham, Assistant Provincial Grand Master

Their involvement added an extra special touch to an already memorable afternoon.

A huge thank you to ‘The Chains and Wives’ and to everyone who contributed in any way. Whether through donations, preparation, serving, simply coming along and enjoying the afternoon, every contribution helped make the event such a success.

With friendship, generosity and plenty of tea, cake and Prosecco, it was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon — and, most importantly, one that looks set to make a fantastic contribution towards the 2027 MBF Festival.