The RAOB, sometimes known as the 'Buffs', is a charitable organisation that aims to promote philanthropy and good fellowship. We have a worldwide membership and raise money for a range of good causes in the local area, further a field and for our own members and families.

We raise funds, primarily at our meetings, but we also go out and about. You may have seen us at the last two 'Extravaganzas' at Buxton with our 'Human Frute Machine' where we raised money for the village and ourselves and had a very enjoyable time doing it. The 'Frute' machine was also used at the Church fete last month.

An example of the way that we use our funds is with this year's charity appeal for the East Anglia Air Ambulance. We have already donated a digital camera for recording accident scenes for diagnosis at the hospital, a TV and video for use as a training aid and a microwave has been donated by one of our members. In past years we have supported the Mundesley inshore lifeboat with radios and funds for their important work. The main appeal for the Order this year is Children's Hospices, of which there is one in Norfolk. Members of this Province have also supported this in the past.

We are not a secret society, in fact we are proud to boast of our membership. No one is asked to give money if they cannot afford it, we are happier to have the company than to collect their money. We pledge our allegiance to the British Crown and constitution, not any political organisation. Our members come from all parts of the community.

The Lammas KC Lodge, No 1704, meets at the Church Centre, RAF Coltishall (just along from the SPAR shop) on Tuesday evenings at 8.15pm.

If you are already a member, we promise you a warm welcome. If you have not been for a while, have problems with transport or feel that you may have forgotten a bit, don't let that stand in your way. You will always be made very welcome. I am available for transport and that might help in arriving with someone. If you are not a member, but feel that you would be interested in an order that promotes friendship, charity and pride, get in touch with me and I will be more than happy to enlighten you.

STB - Bob Jennings