A new Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club has officially launched in Hartlepool, providing a much-needed space where veterans can reconnect, share stories, and find camaraderie. Backed by the Durham Freemasons, this initiative is the latest in a growing regional network that supports the well-being of those who’ve served in the military.
The club was launched on Wednesday, 6th August, at the Hartlepool Masonic Centre, making it the fourth breakfast club supported by Durham Freemasons, alongside clubs in Shildon, Staindrop, and Chester-Le-Street.
“This isn’t just about breakfast-it’s about belonging,” said John Deamer, Armed Forces Breakfast Club Coordinator for Durham Freemasons. “These clubs give veterans-Freemasons or not-a place to share laughter, experiences, and the kind of mutual support only those who’ve served truly understand.”
At the heart of the initiative is the simple yet powerful idea of using a communal breakfast to spark connection, conversation, and emotional support.
“It’s a powerful way to reconnect, chat, and listen-sometimes that’s all it takes to change someone’s day,” added Deamer.
The launch event brought together key figures from the Freemasonry and Armed Forces communities, including John Watts, Provincial Grand Master; Lt Col John Henry, Assistant Provincial Grand Master and Armed Forces Covenant lead; Richard Tucker MBE, Chair of the Durham Freemasons Armed Forces Committee.
“Freemasonry is built on values like integrity, friendship, respect, and service,” said Tucker. “These principles align naturally with the Armed Forces community. Supporting Veterans Breakfast Clubs is a meaningful way we strengthen that bond.”
A highlight of the launch was a surprise presentation of a High Sheriff’s Award to John Deamer by Michael Poole, High Sheriff of Durham, fellow Freemason and Vice Lord Lieutenant for County Durham.
“John is an individual who walks the walk and talks the talk,” Poole remarked. “He is passionate about helping our veterans. Frequently outspoken and often overlooked, he is a most deserving recipient of this award.”
The clubs form part of a larger initiative led by the Durham Provincial Armed Forces Network, established by the Freemasons in 2023 to build stronger ties with the military community. Their mission: to ensure veterans find more than a hot meal-they find community, respect, and renewed purpose.
John Watts, Head of Durham Freemasons, added: “This initiative is pioneering among Freemasons in England and Wales. It reflects our deep and lasting commitment to those who served, especially as they navigate life after military service.”
From casual conversation over coffee to life-changing peer support, the Veterans Breakfast Clubs are becoming a cornerstone of veteran care in County Durham-thanks in no small part to the tireless efforts of volunteers like John Deamer and the ongoing support of the Durham Freemasons.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The breakfast clubs are open to all Veterans, Freemasons or not, and cost £3
- Shildon Veterans Breakfast Club meets 1st Saturday of the month at Shildon Masonic Hall, Middleton Road, Shildon, Co. Durham, DL4 1NN.
- Chester-Le-Street Veterans Breakfast Club meets 3rd Saturday of the month at Chester-Le-Street Masonic Centre, Station Rd, Chester-Le-Street, DH3 3DU.
- For details on the Staindrop and other Veterans Breakfast Clubs, contact John Deamer jdeamer@durhamfreemasons.org
