Polish National Lodge

True charity is often quiet, personal, and driven by a desire to make a tangible difference. For Michael Lynton, a Hatton Garden–based jeweller, generosity has become a hallmark of both his craft and his character.

Following a £5k donation made in May 2025 by members of the Duke of Connaught Lodge No 1558, together with Staines St Mary’s Lodge No 6187, Kimberley Dowling, Senior Income Generation Manager at Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, extended an invitation to Michael and fellow Lodge member Martin, along with their partners, to attend the hospice’s annual Dove Ball on Saturday 15th November. Although neither Michael nor Martin was able to attend the event, the invitation sparked an idea that would go on to make a meaningful impact.

Rather than simply sending apologies, Michael decided to contribute in the way he knows best – through his craftsmanship. Drawing on his expertise as a jeweller, he set about designing and creating a bespoke woman’s gold ring that could be auctioned on the night to raise funds for the hospice. When Michael shared the idea with his Lodge, the response was immediate and enthusiastic. Members of the Duke of Connaught Lodge rallied behind the initiative, with several Brethren privately donating towards the cost of creating the piece.

By early November, the ring was complete: a hallmarked 9-carat white gold opal and diamond cluster ring, officially valued at £3,350. On 6th November, the ring — accompanied by its authentic valuation certificate — was delivered to Woking & Sam Beare Hospice by Martin and his wife Linda, herself a volunteer at the hospice’s Ashford shop.

Michael’s generosity did not stop there. Inspired by the project, he encouraged some of his clients to consider making donations of their own. As a result, a striking diamond-encrusted anchor and sword brooch was also gifted; however, the hospice chose to retain this piece for use at a future fundraising event, further extending the Lodge’s contribution beyond the evening itself.

In the days leading up to the Dove Ball, Michael and Martin visited the hospice to meet the team and learn more about the work that their efforts were supporting. On the night, the ring proved to be the highlight of the auction and sold for £2,100, which is enough to pay for 3½ days’ care for a patient at the in-patient unit.

This marks the second time Michael Lynton has selflessly created a piece of jewellery to support charitable fundraising – a testament not only to his skill as a craftsman, but also to his commitment to giving back. Alongside the support of the Duke of Connaught Lodge and generous donors, his actions stand as a powerful reminder that philanthropy, when combined with talent and teamwork, can leave a lasting legacy.