Chris’s journey back from the brink of suicide earns award from Lincolnshire Freemasons
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A man passionate about helping those contemplating suicide has had his efforts acknowledged by winning a special award from Lincolnshire Freemasons.
Freemasons Chris Jones walked the entire coastline of Britain to raise almost £100,000 for the Freemasons’ charity the MCF, which he freely admits drew him back from the brink of his own suicide.
Since completing his two-year walk Chris, who lives near Woodhall Spa, has become a regular on the speaker circuit, describing his experience on his walk dubbed ‘One The Edge’, a double reference to his coastal walk and the point he’d reached when he was serious about taking his own life. He’s now working on a book about the life-changing episode, under the working title of ‘Back From The Edge’.
In recognition of his efforts he’s been given the Excellence in Care Award by the Masonic Province of Lincolnshire. It’s the third presentation of the award created to shine light on the heartfelt and challenging work undertaken by a brother during the previous year, which has made a significant difference, and has been inspirational to others.
Lincolnshire’s top Freemason, Provincial Grand Master Dave Wheeler, said: “Chris is perhaps one of the most well-known Freemasons in the country after his two-year walk around the coastline of the UK. After completing his walk, Chris has conducted numerous talks about his experiences and knowledge. In communicating his actions and reflecting on his experiences he has tried to improve and change the attitudes of his audiences.
“His infectious energy shows through in his experiences of his journey, not just on the road but his journey through life. He exudes enthusiasm and he is passionate about people, especially men contemplating suicide. Chris will travel anywhere to talk about his experiences, and hopefully impact on the causes close to his heart.
“Each of Chris’s talks to date has concluded with a standing ovation as, to his audiences, he has been inspirational. I have no doubt that when his book is published it will be a must-read, and mean that his story and his journey will continue.”
• To book Chris as a speaker contact him through his web site at this link.
