In July “The Hartlepool Masonic Benevolent Association” sponsored four pupils from the Dyke House Academy School to participate in the Tall Ships race from Den Helder Holland to Hartlepool, the HMBA followed the exploits of one of the trainees ‘’Lucie Marie Wylie’’ on what has turned out to be a life changing experience.

Lucie was assigned to the ‘’Class B’’ 24-metre Gaff rigged Pilot cutter the ‘’Jolie  Brise’’ and enjoyed the experience so much that immediately after her return she joined the local Sea Cadets. Since joining the cadets Lucie has passed two courses. One of which is basic first aid and the other basic seamanship. 

Lucie has also completed for the Hartlepool Sea Cadets unit in a swimming competition against other regional units and has now been selected to represent the region in a second competition on 25th November 2023.

Before starting out on this adventure Lucie had wanted to become a surgeon, but as stated previously this really was a life changing experience, this is her last year at school and she has recently started applying for colleges places. Most noticeably she has started the application process to join the Royal Navy College for Marines in the hopes of becoming a Royal Marine Commando.

It’s obvious that this young lady has made the most of the opportunity and is credit to her family, Hartlepool and the Freemasons, and her infectious enthusiasm has now rubbed off on her sister Hannah who has also joined the Sea Cadets. They both took part in the Trafalgar Parade held in Middlesbrough in October and attended the Remembrance Day Parade on the 12th November in Hartlepool. 

Lucie stands proud and tall in her Hartlepool Royal Marine uniform during the Remembrance Day service where she also had the honour of laying a wreath, before the parade took place she met with the Provincial Grand Master of Durham RW Bro John Paul Thompson who has been following her advancement.

Final word from Lucies mam Sarah

😂 “She would never of found her path without the Freemasons“

Stronger Together