in memoriam - WBro John Bull PProvJGW - 1943 to 2010
It is with great sadness we report the sudden passing to the Grand Lodge Above of WBro John Bull. He passed away on 22 November 2010 after a short illness.
He was a member of Old Northamptonian Lodge No 5694, Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire Lodge of Installed Masters No 3422, Webb Ellis Lodge No 9740, Piscator No 7557, Salcey Forest No 9854 and also Kingsley Chapter No 2431.
He was a larger than life character and whose passing is a shock to everyone.
He will be sadly missed.
£400 Donation to Rushden Mind Project
Mind is the UK's leading Charity working for those with mental health problems. It helps people of all ages through a large variety of services, and has an active branch in Rushden. Unfortunately, its premises there were completely ruined over a year ago by a fire whose cause was never discovered. Since then its work has been carried out in a temporary and rather cramped building.
Early in 2010 Peter Crisp, the large department store nearby, ceased trading and Mind is undertaking a £70,000 project to develop a section of that building into a purpose-built centre with counselling rooms, café, lift and offices. A good deal of the work is being done on a voluntary basis by a team of four retired men with the appropriate skills, being a builder, a plumber, an electrician and a carpenter.
(l to r) David Hearn (Treasurer, Rushden Mind) WBro Tom Thorp (Risdene) Jim Vokes (Chairman of Trustees, Rushden Mind) WBro Brian Hornigold (WM, Pemberton), WBro Geoff Smith (Risdene).
Two of the Rushden Lodges, Risdene and Pemberton, each donated £200 to help with the work, and on 21 October two members from each lodge were given a guided tour of the new centre which it is hoped will be in operation next spring. It was an inspirational experience for all, and it is very much hoped that further assistance for Mind's vital work will be provided.
Masonic Trout & Salmon Fishing Charity Casts Its Net
The Masonic Trout & Salmon Fishing Charity (MTSFC - not to be confused with the Provincial Fly Fishing Association) is a registered charity. It aims to bring an interactive fishing and countryside experience to people of any age with Special Needs. Fishing events are held up and down the country and participants from Special Needs Schools, Adult Day Centres and similar places are invited to attend. They are introduced to fishing by experienced fishing guides and helpers. Lunch is provided for them and their carers or teachers.
The Charity has its own Lodge, the Lodge of Opportunity No 9777. Although based in Hertfordshire, it has a roving commission to meet elsewhere to advance its aims. In our Province the Charity has an active branch headed by the Chairman, WBro John MacKenzie, PM of Rockingham Forest Lodge No 9491.
PGM, RWBro Barrie Hall celebrates a fisherman's big catch
John and his team hosted a fishing day for children with special needs at Ringstead Grange, near Raunds, on 6 October 2010. On a beautiful sunny day, the many children enjoyed both a wonderful day's fishing and a splendid picnic lunch. Brethren came from several other Provinces to join our own, enabling one-to-one teaching of the necessary skills.
Present also were the Charity's President, RWBro Gordon Bourne PProProvGM (Middx) and our own PGM, RWBro Barrie Hall, who described the Charity as Masonry in the community at its very best.
(l to r) WBro Ken Haslar PGStB, Charity CEO, RWBro Gordon Bourne PProProvGM (Middx), Charity President,
RWBro Barrie Hall, PGM, & WBro John MacKenzie, the Charity's N&H Branch Chairman
Although like any charity it needs donations to survive, it desperately needs Brethren with whatever level of fishing experience to volunteer their time. They are guarenteed to derive just as much enjoyment as those they teach. Anyone interested should contact John MacKenzie.
in memoriam - WBro Raymond Thorpe PPSGW CoM - 1925 to 2010
It is with great sadness we report the passing to the Grand Lodge Above on 4 October 2010 of WBro Raymond Thorpe.
Born in Tydd Goat, near Wisbeach on 13 June 1925, his national service took him to Buxton, Derbyshire, where he met Eileen who was to become his wife.
He was initiated into Socrates Lodge No 373 in 1955 becoming its Master in 1969. In 1970 he became a founder member of Samuel Pepy's Lodge No 8330 Lodge becoming its Master in 1975 and holding the office of Charity Steward for many years. In 1994 Bro Ray was a founder of Meridian Lodge No 9542.
At Provincial Grand Lodge in May 2009, the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Barrie Hall presented WBro Thorpe with his Certificate of Merit, a very touching and memorable occasion for all involved.
At his death he was the longest surviving Past Master of both Socrates and Samual Pepy's Lodges and one of only three surviving Founders of Samual Pepy's Lodge. WBro Thorpe was a prominent and successful businessman who never suffered fools gladly but, on the other hand, had a heart of gold.
His passing is an enormous loss to his Lodges and Freemasonry in general.
Go Green in Aid of the 2013 Festival
From October, Masons have the opportunity to go green and at the same time make a contribution to the 2013 Festival without putting their hand in their pocket!
The 2013 Festival Committee has decided to launch a 2013 Festival Fone Fund giving Brethren the chance to donate all those old mobile phones they no longer use to the 2013 Festival.
Did you know that each household has, on average, two unused mobile phones? The phones collected will be sent to Foneclub which will value them and send that payment back to the Province to contribute towards the Festival fund. Every mobile is either recycled for its component parts or redistributed to a third world cause. One such cause was to give farmers in remote parts of Africa Mobile Phones to assist in running their business and aid in establishing co-operative farmers markets.
The Festival Fone Fund will start in Northampton where there will a recycling bin to receive the donated phones. So, have a good look around at home, in the office, in the shed and find those old phones that you do not use and donate them to the Festival Fone Fund!
Corby Masonic Golf Day 2010
The Annual Corby Masonic Golf Competition was held on the 25 September 2010 at the Blackthorn Wood Golf Complex.
On the first tee it was obvious that the Masonic Principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth had been left in the golf bags as the banter started.
Mind that fence! Out of bounds! Who told you that you could play golf?
Bro Billy Glover was congratulated by several Brethren on his first tee shot which landed in deep rough, and the rest of the day continued in the same vein, only the banter got better!
From the field of 29 emerged the winner Bro C MacCallum (Ferraria Lodge No 8489) with a magnificent score of 37 points. In second place was Bro MMcKinna (Lodge of Unity No 9495) with 31 points. He only just pipped Bro Billy Glover (Corbie Lodge 9155) with 30 points on a count back. In keeping with the spirit of the day Bro Glover insisted that Bro McKinna's handicap should be checked before the next competition.
Participating golfers (l to r) WBro Ronnie Stone, WBro Glenn Harman and Bro Aaron Devenney
The Past Master's trophy (or Has-Been's as it is known) was won by WBro B Kerr (St Giles Lodge No 8736) who posted a respectable score of 31 points. In second place WBro G Harman (Lodge of St Giles No 8736) with 30 points.
The victorious guest was Mr J AIIison with 29 points and second was Mr S Hampson with 20 points.
Bro Andy Nairn (Lodge of Unity No 9495) and Bro Billy Glover (W/M of Corbie Lodge No 915) who jointly organised the event sincerely thank all who supported it. The day raised £135 for Teddies for Loving Care.
Buxton Ladies' Festival for Lodge of Prudence
In September each year members of the Lodge of Prudence No 8946 celebrate their Ladies' Festival. Traditionally, this is arranged over a long weekend and features a Saturday night dinner dance at a venue selected annually by the Worshipful Master. Importantly, the weekend incorporates the scheduled regular meeting of the Lodge which is held on the Saturday afternoon under Special Dispensation of the Provincial Grand Master in the Masonic Hall local to the chosen venue.
The 2010 weekend was held at Buxton which is in the Peak District National Park. This year was extra special for the Lodge of Prudence because, for the second year running, the Lodge business featured a ceremony progressing the Masonic career of a Lewis.
Last year, at Windermere in the Lake District, Bro Anthony Hilton, son of the current Worshipful Master WBro Eddie Hilton, was raised. This year Bro Andrew Constable, who was initiated in Stamford in May, was passed.
Sharing the ceremony with his father, Master Elect WBro Paul Constable, was his uncle and sponsor WBro Robin Hitchcock. Paul has spent the last few years working in Hong Kong returning to England less than a year ago. Together they gave Andrew a memorable ceremony.
On its conclusion the members and the many visiting guests rejoined their ladies who had spent the day visiting nearby Chatsworth Hall, the very impressive home of the Duke of Devonshire.
(l to r) Paul & Sharon Constable, Andrew & Kirsty Constable, Robin & Cherie Hitchcock
Eddie Hilton & his daughter Charlotte, Anthony & Emma Hilton
That evening there was a most enjoyable dinner dance at the Buxton Palace Hotel where all guests were staying. The response to the Ladies toast was made in striking fashion by the Masters daughter Charlotte who was the principal lady for the event. Whilst some stayed on to further explore this beautiful part of England most parted company after breakfast on the Sunday, all with happy memories of the experience and all looking forward to the 2011 event which is planned to be in London.
Local Scouting Groups (1st Blisworth, 1st Byfield and the 3rd Daventry) have received generous support in the form of a Masonic donation.
The 3rd Daventry Scout Group has recently amalgamated its Beaver, Cubs and Scout sections under one roof, at its new meeting headquarters at 34 High March Industrial Estate, Daventry - leased free of charge by Daventry District Council.
However, there were other costs that the Scouts could not have met without generous help from various quarters. Lodges in Daventry (Coritani and Buckby Castle), Towcester (Towcestrian, Lactodorum and Fidelity), Stoke Bruerne (Grand Junction) and Wellingborough (Scout Lodge) and the Croughton Square and Compass Club raised money that was topped up by the Provincial Grand Charity to £5,000.
(l to r) PGM, RWBro Barrie Hall, Joe Moulles, Councillor Alan Hills and WBro Mike Sheppard
(photo courtesy of Daventry Express newspaper)
The Scouts held an informal lunch on Sunday 19 September, 2010, to celebrate the opening of their new headquarters. A Scout, Joe Moulles presented a thank you certificate, to the PGM, RWBro Barrie Hall. WBro Mike Sheppard (also Scout parent helper) thanked Councillor Alan Hills for the support of Daventry District Council.
World Wide Association of Harmony Lodges Visit
On 5 and 6 June 2010 Lodge of Harmony No 9048 members, WBro Wayne Williams, APGM, and WBro David Tempest, Secretary, travelled to Cardiff. There they attended the World Wide Association of Harmony Lodges - hosted in Cardiff by the Lodge of Harmony No 8414 on the occasion of its Annual Installation meeting.
Representatives of Harmony Lodges in Guadeloupe, the Caribbean, South Africa, France, New York, Scotland and Cork also attended. At the Festive Board, at the request of the French speaking Lodge from Guadeloupe, the Brethren of the Cardiff Lodge, accompanied by their visitors, sang the Welsh National Anthem in their own language.
The draw to hold the next meeting in 2015 was done in reverse order to avoid the possibility of any cheating. The final choice was made by the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Capt Sir Norman Lloyd-Edwards KCVO.
WBro Tempest presented the Travelling Gavel to the incoming WM, WBro Graham Hawker
Our own Lodge of Harmony No 9048 will host the next meeting of the World Wide Association in 2015 in Northampton. The PGM presented WBro Wayne Williams with the Travelling Gavel which the Lodge will look after until the next draw when it will pass on to some other part of the world. At its own Annual Installation meeting on Wednesday 8 September 2010 WBro Tempest presented the Travelling Gavel to the incoming WM, WBro Graham Hawker.
Corby Masons Conquer Hadrian's Wall in Aid of Help for Heroes
Two members of Corbie Lodge No 9155, the WM, WBro Billy Glover and Bro Nick Brown spent a harrowing five days in the summer of 2010.
Journey's end for WBro Billy Glover and Bro Nick Brown
Between 30 September and 4 October they walked the entire length of Hadrian's Wall, from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Sloway - 84 miles in total - and raised £200 for Help for Heroes in the process.
Having conquered Hadrian's Wall they are now looking forward to walking the 96 miles of the West Highland Way.
Inaugural Pemberton Lodge Clay Shoot
On a sunny but showery August Saturday, Pemberton Lodge No 3029 held its inaugural Clay Shoot at Pastures Lodge Farm, Stanwick, at the kind invitation of WBro Len Willmott.
The event was organised by the current WM, WBro Brian Hornigold and his team . A total of 55 masons, wives and friends attended with 31 actually competing. The event was a 25 bird sporting shoot with classes for experienced shooters and novices alike. There was also a barbecue and refreshments, organised by WBro John Walsh and his wife Sylvia.
The shoot begins
The main competition winner was Peter Gant, runner up Edgar Davis. The best junior shot was Albert Bareham Junior, following in the shooting footsteps of his father (currently WM of Hinchingbrooke Lodge).
The prize for Best Novice was won by WBro Richard Bedells with WBro Brian Dodd runner-up. Both are members of Pemberton Lodge.
A competitor takes aim
Due to the generosity of those attending, the shoot raised £609 for the Rushden Masonic Hall Company Building Fund. It is hoped that this will become an annual event and the next is planned for May 2011.
"Tonight's the Night" for Masonic Crooner
A Northampton Mason who has raised thousands of pounds for charity has starred on BBC TV's "Tonight's the Night."
The show, hosted by John Barrowman, surprises specially selected people and makes their dreams come true.
WBro Steven Brown of Kingsley Lodge No 2431 made a (for him) surprise appearance on the show on Saturday 21 August 2010.
His wife, Mary, was behind the scenes and organised his appearance.
She said, "He just loves to sing and he'll sing at any opportunity."
Mrs Mary Brown
On the show, through the innovative use of modern technology, Bro Steven was able to sing "Born Free" in a duet with his all time favourite crooner, Matt Monroe (whose singing image was projected behind Bro Steven).
Bro Steven Brown sings on "Tonight's the Night"
After his appearance, Bro Steven said, "I've been singing for 40 years and that was the biggest rush in terms of entertaining I've ever had."
£10,000 Help for Heroes
As part of its support for National Charities, the Grand Charity has a scheme which offers to match donations to National Charities made by Lodges within the Province This is a one-off event to selective Provinces.
Peterborough and Counties Lodge No 2996, the Lodge of St George No 5978, the Lodge of St James No 6838 and W Bro Trevor Sherman have raised over £5,000 towards Help for Heroes. The Grand Charity has generously matched this with an additional £5,000.
l to r: W Bro Dr Viv Thomas, APGM, Jane Bowley, Help for Heroes County Co-ordinator
RW Bro Barrie Hall, PGM andW Bro Wayne William, APGM
On Friday 13 August 2010, it was the pleasure of the Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro Barrie Hall to present the cheque to Jane Bowley, Help for Heroes County Co-ordinator.
l to r: Colonel John Royle, RW Bro Barrie Hall, PGM, Frank Munns, County Secretary
SSAFA Forces Help Northamptonshire and VWBro Max Bayes, DPGM
The Grand Charity also made a donation of £5,000 to the Northamptonshire Branch of SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) this was presented by the PGM to Colonel John Royle, who congratulated the Freemasonry movement and gave thanks for their considerable support.
St Ives Lodges Donate to Crossroads Care
The two St Ives Lodges, St Ivo No 2684 and Sothius No 8774, have raised £860 for the young carers of Crossroads Care in St Ives. The Provincial Grand Charity topped up this donation to £1500.
l to r: W Bro Mike Tuppen, Dr Helen Brown and W Bro Sid Bower
The cheque was presented to Dr Helen Brown at the Crossroads Care offices in St Ives on the 12 August 2010 by W Bro Mike Tuppen, Master of St Ivo Lodge, and W Bro Sid Bower, Master of Sothius Lodge. WBro Peter Theakston, a member of both Lodges, co-ordinated the event.
WBro Bill Hensley, also of Sothius Lodge, is the local Communications Officer for the Huntingdon Group. Wearing another hat, he is the Managing Director of Huntingdon Community Radio. In this role he conducted a number of interviews at the presentation.
The first was with a young carer, Alice.
Then with another carer, John.
The next was with the Chief Executive of Crossroads, Dr Helen Brown.
The WMs of St Ivo and Sothius Lodges, add their comments, first W Bro Mike Tuppen
and then W Bro Sid Bower.
A final word of thanks from Dr Helen Brown
before Bill Hensley signs off.
Audio by courtesy of Huntingdon Community Radio
2010 Annual Provincial Cricket Match
The afternoon of Sunday, 8 August 2010, at the Stoke Bruerne Cricket Ground was fine and sunny.
Two teams with RW Bro Russell Race, Metropolitan GM and RW Bro Barrie Hall,PGM in centre
Just the weather for our Province to entertain members of the Metropolitan Grand Lodge on the occasion of our annual Cricket Match for the "Andrew Henderson Memorial Trophy."
"Man of the Match" W Bro Jeremy Thomas presented
with his trophy by RW Bro Barrie Hall,PGM
The result was a close run thing with our Province, superbly led by our Captain, W Bro Mike Caseman-Jones, losing by only 22 runs.
The event was well supported, including visits from RW Bro Russell Race, Metropolitan Grand Master and RW Bro Barrie Hall, our Provincial Grand Master.
RW Bro Barrie Hall presented the Trophy to the winning Captain, W Bro Dr Reynold Hintzen. "Man of the Match" was W Bro Jeremy Thomas, who was the opening bat for Northamptonshire and Huntingdonshire.
The afternoon was concluded in the finest tradition with a BBQ and a few pints of shandy!
l to r: RW Bro Russell Race, Metropolitan GM, W Bro Dr Reynold Hintzen, winning Captain,
RW Bro Barrie Hall, PGM and W Bro John Wood Deputy Metropolitan Grand Secretary
Masonic Bikers in Six-Day Fund Raising Marathon
WBro Michael Robinson of Three Counties Lodge No 9278 and several Lodges and Chapters in Leicestershire has achieved a remarkable life long ambition.
At 73 years of age he has fulfilled a long held dream by visiting all of the 17 RMBI homes on his motor cycle. On Sunday the 11 July 2010 he led eight other Masonic bikers on his Harley Davidson as they set off from Devonshire Court, Leicester, on their six day epic journey.
Their route went as far North as Newcastle, across the Yorkshire Dales to Manchester, onward to Liverpool, through the Mersey Tunnel, into North Wales, across the Brecon Beacons to Porthcawl, over the Severn Crossing and down to Exeter. The bikers then travelled along the South Coast to visit the homes in Bournmouth, and those surrounding London.
The Masonic bikers (l to r Alf Roper, Mags Roper, Jeff Parratt, Matt Robinson, Mike Robinson, Mark Pierpoint
Roger Edwards, Stefan O'Meara) call at the Headquarters of the RMBI at Great Queen Street, London.
On route they also visited the RMBI Headquarters at Great Queen Street.
The ride home took the bikers to Braintree and Bury St Edmunds and they finally arrived back at Devonshire Court, Leicester on Saturday the 17 July 2010.
The tour was a great success. All the Homes gave them a tremendous welcome and the bikers talked to many of the residents and staff. Due to the generosity of Brethren from Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and many friends and residents along the way the bikers hope to raise between £3500 and £4000 in support of the RMBI.
Diamond & Jubilee Certificate Presentations
At the Provincial meeting of the Royal Order of Scotland, Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire, held in March at the Corby Masonic Centre, our Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro Barrie Hall, with kind permission from the Royal Order PGM, RW Bro Gordon Gentry, presented a Diamond Jubilee Certificate to W Bro Bill Thompson to mark sixty years of faithful and dedicated service to the Craft.
RW Bro Barrie Hall,PGM
& W Bro Bill Thompson
W Bro Bill was initiated under the Scottish Constitution in Glenifer Lodge No 1219 in December 1948 before moving south in the early 60s to enjoy his Masonry in Queen Alexandra Lodge No 2932, now part of the Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London, and more recently in the Cambridge Meridian Lodge No 9687.
During all his Craft work W Bro Bill remained dedicated to his beloved Royal Order of Scotland and pioneered the formation of the Royal Order Province of Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire which was "erected and consecrated" in 1992. W Bro Bill was Installed as the first PGM, serving until 2004. W Bro Bill was a joining member of Three Counties Lodge No 9278 in 1992 and was Installed as Master in 1999. A year later, he received the PGMs Certificate of Merit from RW Bro Nicolas Hart.
A very active and respected member of the Royal Arch, W Bro Bill was appointed as PGStdB in Supreme Grand Chapter and later promoted to PAGSoj. He is also a senior member of the Ancient and Accepted Rite and holds Great Priory rank in the Knights Templar Order.
Throughout his sixty years in the Craft and long service in many other Orders, W Bro Bill served with great distinction and commitment. Following the Jubilee Certificate presentation the Brethren gave a standing ovation in tribute to W Bro Bill's Masonic service.
We also congratulate members who have received Jubilee Certificates.
W Bro Norman Manser PJGD was initiated into The Vale of Nene Lodge in 1960 and was Master in 1975
He was appointed to Grand Rank in 1983 and was promoted to PJGD in 1993.
He has been a Master of various Lodges in the Province including the Palmer Lodge of Provincial Grand Stewards and Francis Burgess Lodge (Worcestershire).
He was appointed Provincial Grand Master of the degree in 1995 and remained in office until 2000. He is very active in most side degrees and is still in office in some of them.
RW Bro Barrie Hall,PGM & W Bro Norman Manser
WBro Bill Benn is 92 years of age and a member of Euston Lodge No 2283 where he was the Almoner from 1986 to1994.
He was presented with his Jubliee Certificate by VWBro Derek Young.
VWBro Derek Young & W Bro Bill Benn
W Bro Roy Clark PDGSwdB was initiated into the Fitzwilliam Lodge No 2533 on 5 May 1960. From 1990 to 1997 he was the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent of the Holy Royal Arch in this Province. It was appropriate therefore that the current Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, E Comp Wayne Williams, presented to him his Jubilee Certificate.
In addition we offer our hearty congratulations to the following who have also received Jubilee Certificates - W Bros Brian Stanley Picton, Petriburg Lodge No 8767; George Short, St Johns Lodge No 3972; Guy Hudson, Pomfret Lodge No 360; and Vince Osborn (England's Centre Lodge No 2555).
Successful Premiere of How & Why the Royal Arch
The Demonstration Group had a very successful London premiere of How & Why the Royal Arch on 15 June 2010.
This was hosted by Euclid Chapter of First Principles No 7464 at Great Queen Street and was in the presence of the Deputy Metropolitan Grand Superintendant, E Comp Charles Grace.
£1,300 from Coast to Coast Walk for RMBI Festival
Bro Clive Stainer of Waynflete Lodge No 4452 has completed a commendable personal challenge in aid of the 2013 RMBI Festival. It took him 16 days in May 2010 to complete the very strenuous 190miles of the Arthur Wainwright Coast to Coast Walk.
Walk's Beginning
Walk's End
The route is between St Bees Head, Cumbria to Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire and transverses some of the most beautiful & spectacular (but also the hilliest) countryside in England in the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors.
PGM, RWBro Barrie Hall, receiving the £1,300 cheque from Bro Clive Stainer
As the cost of the walk was funded by Clive, all the money raised by Brethren, family & friends, totalling £1300, has been presented to the PGM on behalf of the 2013 Festival Appeal.
Provincial Stewards' Cross Province Cycle Ride - May 2010
The 2009/10 team of Provincial Grand Stewards marked the end of their year in office with a sponsored cycle ride in support of the Provincial Grand Charity.
WBros Steve Barley, Alistair MacDonald, Bob Watts and Jeff Chambers (all Provincial Grand Stewards) accompanied by WBro John Scotney (Dr Oliver Lodge) and WBro Mike Markham (Lodge of St Paul) cycled across the Province, setting off from Brackley on 5 May.
They called at all the main Masonic centres, finally reaching Ramsey and Huntingdon, after three days and 146 miles of cycling.
l to r: Steve Barley, Alistair MacDonald, Jeff Chambers, John Scotney, Bob Watts, Mike Markham
The weather was kind throughout. Apart from one puncture and a buckled wheel, the journey was completed without major problems. It proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable experience for all and cemented several Masonic friendships.
Importantly, it raised £3,527.05 (the 5p was found on the road) for the Provincial Grand Charity.
The team’s sincere thanks go to those Brethren throughout the Province who generously helped and supported them in their efforts. The Provincial Stewards were delighted to present the proceeds to VWBro Max Bayes, Chairman of the Provincial Grand Charity, at the meeting of Three Counties Lodge in Northampton on 26 May.
Provincial Grand Lodge – May 2010
A warm sunny day and an equally warm welcome greeted members and guests who attended this year's Provincial Grand Lodge.
Over 350 Brethren attended a most successful day at which the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Barrie Hall made first appointments and promotions.
In his address he spoke of the happy and healthy state of the Province and the fact that membership was remaining stable. He said the reason for this was in no small measure the result of out successful mentoring scheme.
Survey Results Help in Compiing Book on 300 Years of Masonry
In 2017 Freemasonry in England and Wales will be 300 years old. As part of the celebrations surrounding this historic event the UGLE is to publish a history of this 300 years. This will particularly demonstrate the important role Freemasons have played in the civil, cultural and social development of our nation.
In Phase One of the UGLE inspired Historical Resources Survey Lodges and Chapters were asked to send to UGLE information about the historical records they hold. The MW The Pro Grand Master Peter Lowndes joined the representatives of more than 35 provinces to celebrate the success of the first phase of the Survey at a reception at Freemasons' Hall in London in May. Over 6000 Lodges and Chapters completed the survey which recorded more than 117,000 documents and shows the depth of material available within lodges and chapters.
He noted, "Lodges and Chapters reflect the variety of local influences, personalities and local circumstances on freemasonry over time. Local diversity, as it would probably now be called, is probably one of the strengths of English freemasonry that enables us to look forward to celebrating a three hundredth birthday in 2017. It is particularly important that when we look at the history of freemasonry we look at the local history as well as the history of "head office".
Provincial representatives had many stories to tell about tracking down lodge records previously thought missing and the challenge of opening long forgotten cupboards and tin boxes in Masonic Halls.
(l to r) WBro Gerry Crawford, MW The Pro Grand Master Peter Lowndes, PGM, RW Bro Barrie Hall - during a break at a meeting at the UGLE held on 18 May 2010 to discuss the findings of the Historical Research Survey
In this Province, 31% of Lodges and Chapters completed the Survey and returned it to UGLE. The Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Barrie Hall said, "I would like to thank all those in the Province who have been involved in this Project and especially those Lodges that completed this Survey. It is not too late. I urge all Lodges that have not yet completed the Survey, particularly the older ones with a wealth of history behind them, to complete the Survey. They should concentrate on people who have helped shape developments in their local areas."
A reward for Lodges and Chapters that have completed the Survey is the opportunity to apply for a UGLE grant towards the preservation and conservation of their historic records (details from Provincial Office). An incidental part of this project has been to highlight the way in which Lodges and Chapters archive and preserve their records. The UGLE has taken advice on this from specialists of the British Library and provided information to help Secretaries in this process.
Phase Two of the Project will be to involve local project groups delving further into the Survey data to identify material that will be useful to UGLE in the celebration of this tercentenary and book publication.
Lewis Becomes Youngest Mason in Province
As he was only 19 years old, the Provincial Grand Master gave dispensation for Braden Dimmock to be initiated into Trinity Lodge, No 9165 in Kettering on 28 April 2010.
Bro Braden Dimmock with proud father W Bro Martin Dimmock
The WM, W Bro Robert Denton, was happy to vacate the Chair in favour of W Bro Martin Dimmock, who initiated his son, Braden Dimmock, with great dignity and affection. It was a very proud father who handed over the Book of Constitutions and Bylaws and welcomed his son into the Lodge. Both father and son were visibly moved by the evening's proceedings.
Bro Braden Dimmock now becomes the youngest Mason in the Province and the first Lewis to be initiated in Trinity Lodge's history..
Sportsman's Lunch a Winner – April 2010
A major fund raising effort at Freemasons' Hall, Northampton has been a great success.
On 30 April 2010 183 diners enjoyed a lunch, auction and after diner speakers with a sporting theme.
Bro Geoff Allen compèred the event.
Derek Redmond gave an insight into his life as a gold medal winning athlete.
David Powell, Northampton Saints RFC President and former England and British Lions player spoke of his sometimes turbulent life on the rugby field.
£6,250 was raised for the 2013 RMBI Festival.
Bro Geoff Allen - Event MC
Coritani Charity Golf Days – April 2010
The 2009/10 Worshipful Master of Coritani Lodge No 8079, WBro David Smith, held two fundraising golf days during his year.
The first was at Cold Ashby Golf Club in the Autumn of 2009 and raised £600 for the Maxiofacial Unit at the Sir John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford.
The second was on 17 April 2010 at Collingtree Golf Club last and raised £350 for the Helping Hands Charity in Daventry. WBro Mike Sheppard drove a golf buggy with refreshments on board, assisted by his 10 years old son Jason accompanied him.
WBro Brian Butt, WBro WBro David Smith and Jason Sheppard (photo courtesy of Daventry Express newspaper)
Because of this the WM asked Jason to present the cheque for £350 to Ian Spencer the son of the late Pete Spencer who founded the Charity.
After the cheque presentation, Jason raised a further £127!
Provincial Demonstration Group Update – March 2010
It is now one year since the Provincial Demonstration Group premiered their first play – ‘Lodge Night 1759’ – to the Palmer Lodge of Provincial Grand Stewards in Northampton on 24 March 2009.
‘Lodge Night 1759’ has now been presented 12 times to appreciative audiences in and out of the Province. There are 11 more presentations booked between April 2011 and January 2012, including support for a 150th and a 250th Lodge anniversary celebration. For more information click on this Daily Advancement forum link.
‘How and Why the Royal Arch’ will be premiered at the Chapter of Installed First Principals on Friday 23 April 2010. There are seven forward bookings for this play between April 2010 and October 2012. These are to Chapters and Craft Lodges in and outside the Province. For more information click on this Daily Advancement forum link.
‘The Working Tools – a New Perspective’ is a two man demonstration by WBros Barry Hales and Mike Farrow of Risdene Lodge.
WBros Barry Hales and Mike Farrow present ‘The Working Tools – a new Perspective’
An article headed ‘Dramatic Masonry’ about the work of the Demonstration Group has appeared in the winter 2009 edition of a national publication and has resulted in 12 new bookings. This means that two-thirds of the Group's forward bookings are now from outside the Province and the Demonstration Group is truly a national ambassadors for Freemasonry in this Province.
Centenary Meeting of Installed Masters' Lodge No 3422
One hundred years later on Wednesda, 24 March 2010 over 140 Brethren attended the Centenary Meeting of the Lodge at Freemasons' Hall, Northampton .
They enjoyed an insightful oration from WBro Revd Tony Avery PAGChap.
This was followed by an excellent and thought provoking presentation "100 Years Standing" by VWBro John Hamill PGSwdB, Director of Special Projects at the United Grand Lodge of England.
The Right Worshipful the Earl of Euston
Jubilee Certificate Presentation to WBro Vincent Osborn
A very well deserved Jubilee Certificate has been presented to a Mason with an amazing Masonic pedigree. WBro Vincent Osborn who is now 80 years old and living in Leicester completed 50 years as a Freemason on 17 March 2010.
He has been a member of no fewer than thirteen Craft Lodges in the Provinces of Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire, Leicestershire & Rutland and Warwickshire as well as the Metropolitan Grand Lodge. During that time he has also been a member of six Royal Arch Chapters in the same Provinces and also a member of numerous other Masonic orders.
(l to r) WBro Brian James (WM), WBro Vincent Osborn and VWBro Max Bayes (Deputy Provincial Grand Master)
On Thursday 18 March 2010, at a meeting of England's Centre Lodge No 2555 (his mother Lodge) WBro Osborn was presented with his Jubilee Certificate. In presenting it, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, VWBro Max Bayes said the achievement of Bro Vincent was quite remarkable and one which few of us could hope to emulate. He heartily congratulated Bro Vincent on his wonderful achievement.
Bro Vincent is (or has been) a member of
England's Centre Lodge No 2555
St John's Lodge No 279 (Leicestershire & Rutland)
Newarke Lodge No 6794 (Leicestershire & Rutland)
George Beech Lodge No 2897 (Warwickshire)
Framland Hundred Lodge No 9453 (Leicestershire & Rutland) Founder
Ex Cathedra Lodge No 9229 (Warwickshire)
New Elizabethan Lodge No 7348 (Metropolitan Grand Lodge)
Leicestershire and Rutland Lodge of Installed Masters Lodge No 7896
Warwickshire Installed Masters Lodge No 4538
Steadfast Lodge No 9654 (Metropolitan Grand Lodge)
Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire Lodge of Installed Masters Lodge No 3422
Lodge of Enterprise Lodge No 6494 (Metropolitan Grand Lodge)
Gartree Chapter No 7778 (Leicestershire & Rutland)
De Mowbray Chapter No 523 (Leicestershire & Rutland)
Abington Chapter No 8041
Wayfarer Chapter No 8679 (Leicestershire & Rutland)
Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire Chapter of First Principals Chapter No 3422
Warwickshire First Principals Chapter No 4538
Leicestershire and Rutland Chapter of Installed First Principals Chapter No 7896
Consecration of Salcey Forest Lodge No 9854
The Consecration of the Province’s ninety first and newest special interest Lodge, the Salcey Forest Lodge No 9854, took place at Freemasons’ Hall, Northampton, on Saturday, 13 March, 2010.
Over 170 Brethren, including 28 of the 30 founders, attended the event. After the Lodge had been opened by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro Viv Thomas, the ceremony of Consecration was conducted by the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Barrie Hall.
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The Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro Wayne Williams, installed VWBro Max Bayes as the Lodge’s first Worshipful Master. He will have a busy year as the Lodge has several candidates for initiation
The new Lodge, which takes its name from the nearby Salcey Forest, will meet four times a year on the last Thursday in January, March, May and October. It will particularly appeal to potential members who lead busy lives that preclude them from attending Lodge meetings at traditional times. Whilst observing the traditions and landmarks of Freemasonry, Salcey Forest Lodge meetings will typically start at 7 pm and the buffet style Festive Board will be concluded by 10 pm.
Founder Members of Salcey Forest Lodge with their first Worshipful Master,
VWBro Max Bayes (centre) and Consecrating Officer, RWBro Barrie Hall, PGM (left of WM)
The objectives of the Lodge will be
to attract new members to Freemasonry
to afford opportunities for, and to encourage, reasonably rapid progression for members who are not Past Masters in other Lodges
to encourage members to visit and support other Lodges within the area
Grand Lodge Appointments & Promotions - April 2010
The Province is pleased to announce the following Grand Lodge promotions
WBro William Rutherford PAGDC (Thistle & Rose Lodge No 6644, and Ferraria Lodge No 8489) to Past Junior Grand Deacon
First appointments to Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies are to be conferred on
WBro Anthony (Tony) Greene PProvSGW (De La Pre Lodge No 1911 and Scout Lodge No 9814)
WBro John Harvey PProvSGW (Wentworth Lodge No 737 and Trinity Lodge No 9165)
WBro Terry Roy PPrJGW (Pomfret Lodge No 360, Lodge of Harmony No 9048 and Grand Junction Lodge No 9775)
To them all, we extend our sincere congratulations. The Investiture Meeting of Grand Lodge will take place at Great Queen Street, London on Wednesday 28th April 2010.
Certificate of Merit for WBro John Ward
At their 102nd regular meeting at the Masonic Hall, Ellindon on Wednesday 3 February, Thomas Deacon Lodge No 9126 was honoured by a surprise visit from the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Barrie Hall. He was accompanied by his Director of Ceremonies, WBro Neil Young.
The Provincial Grand Master explained they “were just passing, and decided to drop in.” They then enjoyed the Passing of Bro Michael Marjoram. After an excellent extended explanation of the Second Degree tracing board by WBro John Hitchin, the entered apprentices were re-admitted.
The Worshipful Master announced an additional item to the agenda. The true reason for the Provincial Grand Master’s attendance became clear when he awarded WBro John Ward the Provincial Grand Master’s Certificate of Merit.
(l to r) WBro John Ward with the Provincial Grand Master
Bro John had been Director of Ceremonies at Thomas Deacon Lodge for ten years, and Assistant Director of Ceremonies for a further five years prior to that. The PGM praised Bro John’s work in Freemasonry and in particular his hard work in Thomas Deacon Lodge.
A very successful Initiates Evening took place at the Masonic Centre, Ellindon on Friday 22 January 2010.
The evening started with informal drinks.
After this all were invited to take their seats in the Lodge Room.
The PGM, RW Bro Barrie Hall, introduced the evening, with an outline of what was to follow and a 15 minute presentation on the basic principles of Freemasonry.
Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Barrie Hall
This was followed by WBro Trevor Boswell, the incoming Provincial Grand Secretary, who gave a short talk on Masonic Charities and the varying ways Freemasons support them.
WBro Trevor Boswell
Mrs Joy Hall, the wife of the PGM, then gave a ‘Masonic Wife’s’ perspective of Freemasonry referring inevitably to the early commitment made by all Freemasons ‘just one night out a month is not too much for a man to ask for is it’?
Mrs Joy Hall
There followed a very entertaining and informative explanation of the Lodge Room and regalia by WBro Reg Hirst, Provincial Education & Training Officer.
Much to the amusement of those present, he ended his presentation wearing the regalia of the PGM (however it was safely returned at the end).
WBro Reg Hirst in PGM's regalia
We invite you to invent yourt own caption!
The evening concluded informally over a drink and a buffet supper.
St John's Lodge No 3972 - Jubilee Certificate Presentations
The meeting in Northampton of St John’s Lodge No 3972 on Monday 18 January 2010 was a very special special occasion.
Brothers at very different stages in their masonic careers took centre stage. For Bro Johan-Christ Moukoko, who was born in Cameroon, West Africa, and is a 41 years old secondary school teacher of French, it was his first day as a Freemason as he was initiated into the Lodge.
For two other Bros it was a celebration of 50 years in Freemasonry. The Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro Wayne Williams, presented them with their Jubilee Certificates.
WBro Wayne Williams said WBro George Short, 84 years, a retired teacher of mathematics, had been initiated into St John’s Lodge 50 years ago to the day. He had been its organist for 18 years and its Worshipful Master in 1974. He became a ProvGStwd in 1976, PPGReg in 1980, PPJGW in 1989 and PPSGW in 1990.
(l to R) WBro Wayne Williams, Bro John Bogan, WM WBro Mark Douglast & WBro George Short
The Assistant Provincial Grand Master (who is also the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent of the Holy Royal Arch Province of Northamptonshire and Huntingdonshire) particularly thanked Bro George for his support of the Holy Royal Arch in the Province over many years. Bro George was promoted to Grand Rank (PAGDC) in the Holy Royal Arch in 1996. Clearly moved by the emotion of the occasion Bro George sincerely thanked WBro Williams.
(l to r) The most senior Lodge member, WBro George Short,
welcomes the most junior, Bro Johan-Christ Moukoko
In April 1959 Bro John Bogan was initiated into St Munn Ardnadam Lodge No 496 (meeting in Argyll under the Grand Lodge of Scotland). A Marine Engineer, his work took him to many parts of the world. In 2008 he moved to Northampton and became a joining member of St John’s Lodge where he is now the Inner Guard.
In presenting Bro John with his Jubilee Certificate, WBro Williams said that although Bro John had only been a member of this Province for two years the Certificate celebrated the contribution he had made in the whole of his 50 years as a Freemason.
Bro John said, “The current Worshipful Master, WBro Mark Douglas, is the youngest WM the Lodge has ever had. If I progress through the offices, as I intend to do, I shall probably be the oldest!”
Book Your Lodge's Oration
In his role as Provincial Grand Orator, VWBro Derek Young has made a New Year call for expressions of interest from Lodges in receiving Orations or Lectures during the next Masonic year.
Representatives of Lodges wishing to include such Orations or Lectures in their 2010/11 programme of meetings should contact VWBro Derek Young directly or through the Provincial Office.
