Provincial Grand Almoner’s Report May 2024

Early Spring Holiday

Dear Sir Knights,

So far, so good; blue skies, and warm sunshine but that is today; the forecast is as usual rain! | have always thought that the reason we in the UK were able to colonise the globe was because we are so used to sudden extremes in weather and so managed to survive foreign climes.

In common with all Almoners, who are the last to know of any ill health or distress, | again have nothing to report, apart for my praise to the knight who in spite of having to carry heavy Oxygen equipment manages to attend meetings. Chapel Almoners, do please keep me informed.

Sir Knights, have you had, or arranged to have your spring Covid Vaccine booster? All who are over the young age of 75 are eligible; you should have been contacted, if not get on to your GP or apply online yourself, on the NHS App. | did and had my Booster within a week at my local Pharmacy. Remember it is ‘only by keeping up with our Flu and Covid Boosters we can have a normal life until the next, as yet unknown, bug hits us.

It is “ no mow May” and the experts suggest we do not mow the grass for the next month so that the wild flora ( some call them weeds) can sprout and flower for the bees and other pollinators. | have taken their advice and the meadow will not see the mower again until June. | think | have found the reason why Brock is no longer tunnelling under my fence. My late neighbour's house is still empty and the garden is now overgrown and wild, consequently, both Brock and the foxes seem to have found a more likeable environment. The birds are flourishing especially the Starlings, who are increasing again after a dramatic decrease in their number last year.

Until we meet again, Dominus Vobiscum and my Best wishes,

Yours in Humilitas et Caritas

Sir Sydney of Belchamp Walter,

Provincial Grand Almoner 6th May 2024