Foresters Charity Appeal Monthly Roundup – May 2026

Welcome to the latest edition of our Foresters charity appeal roundup! In this series, we provide updates on our current appeal and celebrate the incredible efforts of our members, as they unite to support Alzheimer’s Society – the UK’s leading dementia charity.

An Update From HCR, Gail Lancaster

As the 2025/2026 Annual Charity Appeal draws to a close in June 2026, Gail Lancaster, High Chief Ranger, reflects on what has been an incredible month.

“This is nearly my last monthly blog, and I cannot believe my year in office is almost at an end. May was very warm – I’m not complaining of course, and Barry Island beach was bustling during the hottest days of the month.

Following my election at last years’ High Court (Foresters Annual General Meeting), I was kindly invited to Guernsey, but unfortunately, I was unable to attend the event. I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to High Sub Chief Ranger, Bruce and his Lady Consort, Helen, for representing me and delivery my speech to Guernsey Court members. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the Guernsey Court for their generous donation and raffle proceeds. The funds raised for Alzheimer’s Society will help to support those living with dementia, now and in the future.

Events Across the UK

Eastbourne Music Quiz

In May, I had a very long but enjoyable train trip to Eastbourne for a music quiz with Immediate Past High Chief Ranger, Jo Andrew. The quiz was organised by Roger (Court 2559) and it was a fabulous night, well attended by the local community. We sang and sang at our table but unfortunately didn’t win. Thank you for a fabulous evening and we’ll be back to try another round.

Wales and Borders Area Meeting

In May, I also attended the Wales and Borders Area meeting where Paul Handley, Foresters Interim Membership Director, introduced himself and shared his vision for the Society’s future. A lively Q&A session followed, along with lunch and a raffle supporting my HCR charity appeal.

Pride of Kent Area Meeting

It’s always lovely to meet with Foresters members in their home area. The day began with delicious fish & chips ahead of the meeting, followed by an update on my HCR charity appeal and a generous donation from the Area for Alzheimer’s Society.

In the evening, members gathered for Flag’s Dinner, held annually to celebrate the anniversary of the Court’s opening. It was an evening filled with good food and company. Thank you for a fabulous evening and for your generous donations and funds raised from your raffle for the appeal.

Leeds Castle Trip

Thirty-six Foresters enjoyed a sunny day out at Leeds Castle, complete with the annual jousting competition between England, France and Norway. With food stalls, gift tents, and castle tours, it was a fun packed Bank Holiday weekend.

While this roundup is all about the fantastic member events and activities that took place in May, I will mention my final event which is the South London’s Area meeting on the 6th of June. I am very much looking forward to it, and this will be my last meeting before High Court.

982-Mile Challenge Update

At the start of the year, I was delighted to launch our ‘982 Mile New Year Challenge’ in support of Alzheimer’s Society. I invited Foresters members to cover a combined 982 miles collectively by 22nd June, which is one mile for every one of the 982,000 people in the UK living with dementia.

Whilst there are too many names to mention, I would like to give a special thanks to the following for their involvement in the challenge.

  • Ray Milne, Foresters Non-Executive Director – completed an astonishing 982,000 metres hike, equivalent to 1.25 marathons per week over 18 weeks! This is a metre for every person suffering from dementia in the UK today. Ray, thank you so much for all your support.
  • Court Development Officers, Sharon – has walked, swam and cycled 379 miles so far, and she’s still going strong. Well done Sharon and keep going!!!
  • Foresters Court 2454 – have danced their way to an impressive 242 miles, even welcoming a special guest from Alzheimer’s Society who joined in too. Now that is what I call dancing the light fandango!!

A Heartfelt Thank You

I would like to thank everyone who has supported my HCR charity appeal. I would also like to thank the many Courts that invited me to your events throughout the year, which included being collected to and from stations, events and hotels.

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone that has supported the appeal in aid of Alzheimer’s Society, whether by writing music, walking, swimming, cycling, dancing, organising raffles, fetes, and other events, quizzing, creating paintings and poetry, or contributing in countless other ways.

With my year in office soon coming to an end, it has been an honour to serve as your High Chief Ranger. It will remain as the highlight of my membership with Foresters Friendly Society.

Yours fraternally, Gail.”

How to Support Our Appeal

There’s still time to support Alzheimer’s Society and help us build on this fantastic appeal progress:

Help Available

If you’re worried about dementia, help is available.

Please contact the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456 for further information, advice and emotional support.

To learn more about our Annual Charity Appeal, explore our website here.

 

Back to all articles