Freemasons shortlisted for honour at the ‘Pride of Essex Awards’
David Barton and Cross Keys Community Fund shortlisted for the Community Champion Award at the ‘Pride of Essex Awards 2025’
David Barton, Provincial Community Engagement Lead for Essex Freemasons and founder of the wellbeing charity Get Started Art, has been shortlisted for the Community Champion Award at this year’s Pride of Essex Awards, recognising his tireless efforts to improve lives and strengthen community engagement across the county.
The Community Champion Award celebrates those who consistently put the needs of others before their own, raising vital funds for charity and making a real difference to their communities.
David’s nomination also reflects his work through Get Started Art, which provides creative opportunities that promote mental wellbeing and self-esteem for people of all ages. His efforts have reached far beyond Essex, with the initiative now supporting schools, care homes, charities, and community groups across the UK and internationally. To date, the charity has donated more than 1.5 million art therapy colouring sheets and books, ensuring free access to activities that foster creativity and emotional health.
The Cross Keys Community Fund (CKCF), which David chairs, has also been named a finalist for the Team of Pride Award, which recognises groups who dedicate their time and energy to improving the lives of others, whether through fundraising, creating initiatives, or providing essential support where it is most needed.
Established to support good causes in and around Thurrock, the CKCF has quickly become a driving force for positive change, helping local organisations and volunteers deliver projects that benefit people of all ages. By encouraging collaboration and community spirit, the fund has built a strong network of support that continues to make a lasting impact.
Speaking about the nominations, David said: “Being shortlisted is a real honour. The Cross Keys Community Fund is about people coming together to help others, and I’m proud to see that spirit recognised.”
Elliott Chevin, Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Essex, added:
“Community engagement sits at the very heart of what we do. These recognitions show how important it is that Freemasons continue to support people beyond our lodges, helping strengthen communities across Essex. It also reflects the United Grand Lodge of England’s Third Pillar strategy*, which places community as one of our key priorities nationally.”
The winners will be announced at Anglia Ruskin University (Lord Ashcroft Building), Chelmsford on 14th October, celebrating the county’s unsung heroes who embody the true spirit of community.
‘*’ The Third Pillar Strategy is the community engagement aspect of the United Grand Lodge of England strategic plan ‘2022 and Beyond’, signifying a move from solely focusing on financial donations to actively engaging members' time, skills, and resources in addressing local issues.
To read more about Pride of Essex Awards visit their website https://www.poeawards.org/
Photos:
Top: David Barton at Freemasons Hall
Below:
Left: Cross Keys Community Fund annual Christmas Party for disadvantaged children
Right: Recent campaign to deliver 2000 Easter Eggs to local community groups and charities
