On Tuesday 9th June, the Old Dovorian Lodge No. 5647 was honoured to be represented at the official launch of Beyond the wire’s new Bereavement Hub at the Houses of Parliament. The Lodge’s Master, W. Bro Robert McAlpin, and Director of Ceremonies, Sqn Ldr (Ret’d) Budgie Sargent, attended on behalf of the Lodge to show their continued support for this remarkable initiative created by Beyond the Wire, in partnership with the Andrew Simpson Foundation.
During the event, the Lodge proudly presented an additional donation of £500, bringing the total contributed to this small but extraordinary charity to £3,000. Beyond the Wire is leading the way with an innovative online hub designed to support military families who experience the devastating loss of a serving loved one. Their mission is simple yet profoundly important: that no one in the Armed Forces bereaved community ever feels forgotten or alone.
This cause resonates deeply with the Old Dovorian and Dover College communities. For more than 150 years, former pupils and staff have served their country with pride—many continuing to do so today in both the armed and reserve forces. Supporting Beyond the Wire felt not only appropriate, but a meaningful extension of our shared heritage and values.
At the launch, Jilly Carrell, the charity’s founder, delivered an inspiring, heartfelt, and at times emotional address. She spoke openly about the loss of her husband, Colonel Carrell, who passed away from cancer while still serving, and how her family’s experience shaped the creation of the Bereavement Hub. Her words, supported by her dedicated team, Members of Parliament, the Armed Forces, and fellow military charities, underscored the urgent need for this kind of compassionate support.
This launch marks only the beginning. Phase One of the Bereavement Hub is now live, and it will continue to grow and evolve—becoming an even stronger lifeline for families when they need it most.
To learn more about this inspiring charity and the vital work they are doing, please visit:
👉 https://beyondthewire.org.uk/
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Old Dovorian Club Registered Address – HMS Wellington, Temple Stairs | Victoria Embankment | London WC2R 2PN