Run By Coffee!

A chance quest for coffee and cake has resulted in a brand-new adult training boat and strengthened community bonds between Durham Freemasons and the Chester-Le-Street Amateur Rowing Club.
Earlier this year, the Durham Freemasons Parkrunners visited Chester-Le-Street Parkrun, only to discover that their usual post-run café spot was unexpectedly closed. Determined not to miss their traditional coffee, cake and banter ritual, the runners wandered over to the nearby Chester-Le-Street Amateur Rowing Club, which happened to be open and warmly welcomed them inside.
Over steaming mugs and friendly conversation, members of the Parkrun group learned that the rowing club faced a major challenge. Despite growing adult membership, the club lacked an adult-sized training boat, an essential piece of equipment for safely introducing new rowers to the sport. Encouraged to apply, the Durham Freemasons Charity received a formal request and approved a £4,500 grant to fully fund the much-needed boat.
On Saturday 29th November, the Durham Freemasons Parkrunners returned to the Rowing Club after completing their latest Riverside Parkrun to formally hand over the new boat and present the grant certificate. They stayed to enjoy coffee and cake, this time in celebration.
Martin Rankin, Assistant Head of Durham Freemasons and Chair of the Durham Freemasons Charity, led the handover. Rankin, who had not been in a rowing boat since his days in the Sea Cadets, also took the opportunity to take the new craft out onto the water. He said: “This is the perfect example of how unexpected community connections can turn into something lasting and meaningful. What began as a search for coffee has grown into a partnership that supports grassroots sport and strengthens local opportunities. We are delighted to help the Rowing Club expand its adult training and to see this boat already making a difference.”
With smiles, gratitude, and many slices of cake, the collaboration born from a closed café has become a shining example of community spirit. It is truly Run By Coffee!
The new adult training boat is already supporting newcomers to the sport and will play a key role in growing the club’s inclusive rowing programme.