Wivenhoe Freemasons support fund for important River Colne ferry crossing

Members of the Colne Lodge supports local volunteer ferry service across the River Colne

Members of the Colne Lodge No. 2477, that meet at the Wivenhoe Masonic Hall in wanting to support an important local service agreed to help with a fundraising programme for the Wivenhoe Fingringhoe & Rowhedge Ferry Trust.

There has been a ferry on the River Colne between Wivenhoe and Rowhedge throughout history. The regular ferryman retired in 1966, and services were re-instated with a powered craft in 1992 and the Wivenhoe, Fingringhoe & Rowhedge Ferry Trust was formed. The Trust is a Community Interest Company and as such it is run entirely by volunteers for the community. The ferry service is available to the public every weekend throughout the summer season and is not only used by locals but, is also a draw for the many visitors to the area.

The Trust has utilised several boats over time and now finds that the current ferryboat requires replacement due to the potential failure of its regulatory licence examinations in 2026. A suitable vessel was found in Devon and has been transported to the River Colne, where it is being prepared for use in the months to come.

The cost of the new boat was £13,000 and following an appeal by the Trust for supportive funding, and with donations from individuals, local groups and societies they have raised some £4,600 towards the cost.

During the evening of Tuesday, 3rd June, John Marshall the Master of Colne Lodge, was proud to present Phil Booth, the Commadore of the Trust with a cheque for £250 on behalf of the members.

The Colne Lodge have also supported another small voluntary organisation, known locally as The Essex Blood Runners. This group of volunteers deliver urgent blood and medical supplies to hospitals in Essex and Greater London and are in need of funds to support their ailing transport fleet.

Read more about the Ferry and the Essex Blood Runners by clicking their website links below:

https://wivenhoerowhedgeferry.co.uk/ 

https://www.essexvoluntarybloodservice.com/

 Photo

Top: John Marshall (Right), Master of Colne Lodge, presenting cheque to Phil Booth, Commadore of the Trust surrounded by Lodge members