News and views from the Provinces

Out About

A roundup of what’s happening in the world of Freemasonry

Modernising for a new generation of members

The United Grand Lodge of England is launching a nationwide digital marketing campaign that aims to modernise communication channels with the public

A new national digital campaign is sending a clear message about the world of Freemasonry and what being a member has to offer. The campaign has already started to take effect – the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) now has a waiting list of 6,000 potential members.

Recent research showed that one in four people would consider joining the Freemasons today, compared with one in 10 in 2018. The same research showed that those aged 18-34 think the most favourably towards the organisation, suggesting that the marketing drive is a real opportunity to engage with young people.

The project aims to inspire and challenge individuals to practise Freemasonry’s core values – integrity, friendship, respect and charity – in their private and public lives, enabling them to develop into thoughtful, confident people. A recent study found that 75 per cent of Freemasons participate in civic or charitable activities, compared with just 31 per cent of non-Freemasons, in a matched geodemographic.

The campaign involves all 48 regions across England and Wales, and includes a new website and social

The campaign shows the traditions of Freemasonry through ceremony

The new website aims to engage with new audiences media strategy. The project is operated through paid Facebook advertising, giving Freemasonry the opportunity to engage with new audiences from all backgrounds and lifestyles.

Dr David Staples, Grand Secretary and Chief Executive of the UGLE, said, ‘We’ve been planning this initiative for a long time, with the ultimate goal of demystifying misperceptions around Freemasonry. Now the time has come to speak directly to our audiences, whether that’s visitors to Freemasons’ Hall or simply members of the public who want to learn more about Freemasonry and what we do.

‘Everyone should know that we are Freemasons because we want to be part of something unique and make lifelong friends. We eat, drink and meet together, and our goal with this campaign is to use digital media to make people aware of this.’

UGLE’s new website aims to change the public perception of Freemasonry and looks forward to cementing the reputation of Freemasonry as a force for good in communities around England and Wales.

Dr Staples added, ‘There is much misinformation about what Freemasonry is and stands for, and the new website dispels those myths through clear, engaging content. Combining elegant, illustrated details with impactful, high-quality images, users will experience a warm, friendly welcome from Freemasonry.’

The new UGLE digital experience provides online users, prospective members and visitors to Freemasons’ Hall with a cutting-edge platform and enhanced design.

In a dedicated section, users will be able to book tours and visits to Freemasons’ Hall and the Museum of Freemasonry as well as select from a calendar of events. There are also links to the shop and the new café and bar at Freemasons’ Hall.

Elsewhere on the website, visitors can discover exciting facts and the history of both Freemasonry and Freemasons’ Hall via an interactive timeline. Users can also locate their nearest Masonic centre via an interactive map. The website includes a section for the Universities Scheme, offering information and support for applicants who would like to join the organisation through the scheme Lodges.

The site reflects the symbolism, traditions and heritage of Freemasonry, while maintaining a modern and engaging experience that works towards UGLE being recognised as a historical organisation that is just as important and relevant today.

Michelle Worvell, UGLE Director of Communications and Marketing, added, ‘This national digital marketing campaign speaks to audiences of all ages, genders, races and backgrounds. We are confident that it will be a success and that a wider audience will learn more about Freemasonry, including the amount we raise for charity and how we support our local communities.

‘Hopefully, it will also encourage visitors to the websites, or those attracted to the digital marketing campaign, to consider becoming future members.’

1 LINCOLNSHIRE

Along for the ride

Two years after its warrant was signed by the Grand Master, and 16 months after it should have happened, Lincolnshire has at last consecrated its newest Lodge – Free Wheelers No. 9991. With a membership made up of motorcycling enthusiasts, the peripatetic Lodge is nominally based in Horncastle, but has ambitions to meet in each of Lincolnshire’s 21 centres.

The idea of forming a motorcycle Lodge started in a bar on a road trip to Switzerland. Chris Jones had the honour of being the Primus Worshipful Master. The Lodge has a unique set of gavels made from pistons by Inner Guard Stuart Buckingham, bringing a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘firing on all cylinders’.

In the presence of 150 members in Grimsby’s Masonic Hall, the Lodge was consecrated by Past Provincial Grand Master Graham Ives, in the absence of current Provincial Grand Master Dave Wheeler through illness. He was assisted by Deputy Provincial Grand Master John Crutchley, Assistant Provincial Grand Masters Peter Brooks and Bruce Goodman, and Provincial Chaplain the Rev Dr Brian Roberts, all under the watchful eye of Provincial Director of Ceremonies Noel Fisher. This was followed by the first installation of Officers for the Lodge.

2 DERBYSHIRE

The social network

When COVID restrictions began in early 2020 and face-to-face meetings ceased, a void was created that some Freemasons had difficulty filling. Zoom became a new byword for many and it turned into a lifeline for people unable to leave their homes.

The Amadeus Lodge No. 9539 who meet at Dore in the Province of Derbyshire, held weekly Zoom meetings to keep its members informed and involved, initially averaging 15 participants, several of whom were visitors. They realised that this was a great opportunity to encourage members, not only at Dore but throughout the Province, to meet and join in. As an incentive, they looked for a way to spread the word about Zoom socials by encouraging friendly competition. Senior Deacon and Social Media Officer of Amadeus Lodge Andy Glaves came up with idea of the virtual travelling headset which could be claimed by any Lodge whose members had the largest attendance. The headset would then be claimed by another Lodge which, at their next meeting, would organise their own talk.

In September, the Lodge of Repose even managed to attract the presence of the Grand Secretary Dr David Staples who took a Q&A session.

The number of attendees rose and regularly approached 100 attendees. Andy Glaves commented, ‘Appreciation must be given to all those who have helped to make the Amadeus travelling headset a success – the Provincial Grand Master for his support and promotion of the initiative, Julie Foster at Provincial Office for advertising the meetings while she was working from home, Steve Williams for his encouragement, the Secretaries and Masters of the headset Lodges for hosting and organising their meetings, but, of course, the huge number of visitors and Lodge members who attended.’ On 23 September the travelling headset was formally retired. Purely by chance it had returned to its home – Amadeus Lodge. Every Lodge which had claimed it received a framed certificate presented by the Provincial Grand Master to proudly display at their meeting places. Congratulations go to Andy Glaves for this great initiative which was a beacon of light at a very dark time.

3 ESSEX

Heart felt

Having seen an appeal by Maldon Saints YFC for funding to purchase defibrillators, the members of Mitre Lodge No. 9307 decided to donate £500 towards the cost. However, this wasn’t enough to buy all the equipment that was needed, so the Secretary of Mitre Lodge asked the members of the other Maldon Masonic Lodges if they would offer support.

All were pleased to join in, including the Lodge of St Peter, Beeleigh Abbey Lodge, Daen Ingas Lodge, Wheel of Fellowship Lodge, Frederick Leistikow Lodge, Coromandel Chapter, Frederick Leistikow Chapter, and Plume Chapter.

Maldon Lodges supported an appeal to buy defibrillators for Maldon Saints

The grand total was increased from £500 to £1,140, enabling Maldon Saints to buy the portable defibrillator and fund training for the members who will operate it. The donation was made on Saturday 4 September by Dave Harrop, the Master of Mitre Lodge and Paul Beech the Chairman of Maldon Masonic Hall on behalf of the Maldon Lodges.

4 EAST LANCASHIRE

The sky’s the limit

Manchester Freemasons Dean Lynch – an avid skydiver and adrenaline junkie – and trusty sidekick Darren Fletcher, wanted to raise funds for their selected charities. So, they put the call out for Freemasons and non-Freemasons to take part in an exciting challenge – the Manchester Masons/Manchester Level Club Skydive. Within a week, they were fully booked with 60 adventure seekers signing up.

The original date of 14 August was postponed due to adverse weather, but it hasn’t dampened anyone’s spirits as there have been quite a few people who have jumped since.

Freemasons from multiple Provinces spread across England took part. John Merrett, a 70-year-old member from Bristol, jumped with his regalia under his flight suit while Rob Manchester from Leicestershire was raising funds for the Province of Leicestershire and Rutland’s Festival. Rachel Cookson, who jumped to support the East Lancashire Masonic Charity (ELMC), raised more than £2,000. She was skydiving in honour of Charles Ward who died earlier this year.

In a display of leadership, Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Manchester Districts Mark Davis took to the skies, raising a considerable amount for the upcoming Province of East Lancashire 2026 Festival in support of The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF, the Freemasons’ charity).

To date, more than £20,000 has been raised collectively and the work isn’t finished yet.

Adventurous Freemasons are skydiving to raise money for the Province 5 YORKSHIRE, N&E RIDINGS

Down the generations

On 12 August, at a meeting of The Old Hymerian Lodge No. 6885 in Kingston-upon-Hull, the Worshipful Master Chris Shuttleworth vacated the Chair in favour of the Provincial Grand Master Jeff Gillyon. The Provincial Grand Master then proceeded to initiate his grandson, Nicholas Gillyon, son of the late Philip Gillyon, who is currently reading Classics at the University of Edinburgh. Philip was himself initiated by his father in 1989, as Jeff was Master of the Lodge at that time.

The ceremony was witnessed by 80 members and the dinner that followed was excellent and accompanied by much singing.

6 WEST KENT

Gift of life

The West Kent Masonic Clay Shooting Club was set up a few years ago to enable members to combine their hobbies and to support their local communities. While the members have a passion for clay shooting, they also care greatly about the wellbeing of those around them and are continually looking for opportunities to make a difference. As a result, they decided to support local clay shooting clubs by raising funds to buy them life-saving defibrillators.

Their first donation went to the Dartford Clay Shooting Club, after which the pandemic temporarily prevented further meetings. During this time, members of the Lodge of Sincerity and the Masonic Clay Shooting Club agreed that their first meeting back would be a charity shoot to raise funds for a second defibrillator, this time for JJS Clay Shooting Club near Bluewater.

With the lifting of restrictions, they were able to hold the event in late June with all funds raised on the day going to the purchase of the defibrillator which was recently presented to Mark West, owner of JJS Clay Shooting Club, by the Provincial Grand Master for West Kent Masons, Mark Estaugh. West was overwhelmed by the generosity of West Kent Masons, who often use his club, and said, ‘Hopefully it will never need to be used, but it’s fantastic that we now have this life-saving piece of equipment should we ever need it.’

7 LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND

We will remember them

Around 150 Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons and their families gathered at Bradgate Park’s Memorial Wood on 29 August for a service of remembrance to those lost during the pandemic. The Memorial Wood was reopened in 2017 with the help of the Freemasons and the County Council, making it a fitting location to remember loved ones.

Head of Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Peter Kinder introduced the speakers as guests were led through the order of service and chosen hymns. The Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire Mike Kapur gave an address and read a touching Sanskrit poem.

Also taking part was Pro Grand Master Peter Lowndes who had made a special journey to the county from Hampshire that morning. The hymns and prayers were led by the Reverend Canon Michael Wilson, who, along with Peter Kinder, read out the names of 82 Freemasons from the county who have sadly passed away in the past 18 months.

After the service, the gates of the Memorial Wood, set in a tranquil area overlooking Cropston reservoir, were opened as the guests took a moment to walk around the woodland and pay their respects. The wood is home to distinctive wooden pillars that display beautiful bronze leaves commemorating passed loved ones and family members.

Peter Kinder said, ‘I would like to thank all of those who attended this special service. It was such a fitting tribute to those who are no longer with us and who have given so much to others during their lives.’

8 STAFFORDSHIRE

Fun for families

Staffordshire Freemasons have donated £15,000 to Sandwell Parents for Disabled Children in West Bromwich. The charity was founded in 2003 and supports physically disabled children and those with special needs, along with their parents and siblings. They cater for children up to eight years old and provide a wide variety of activities.

On 9 August, Head of Staffordshire Freemasons John Lockley and Charity Steward Dr John Skellern caught up with the children and their parents as they met up for the first time since the start of the pandemic

Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons honour those lost in the pandemic at the Blackwell Adventure Park in Worcestershire for a fun day out. Together with operations manager Linda Lloyd and activities co-ordinator Sam Ward, they watched as the children took park in many exciting activities, including the 3G swing that allows children and their parents to swing through the air at high speed, helping to overcome the fear of height and speed. Other attractions included a Tree Top walk where children are safely hoisted into the tops of trees and along catwalks.

John Lockley said, ‘It is a pleasure to see the children enjoying themselves so much, the money is going to such a worthwhile cause. This charity gives wonderful support to the children and gives them experiences they would not otherwise enjoy.’ Linda and Sam thanked John for the generous donation.

9 MASONIC VEHICLE ASSOCIATION

Full throttle

Formed during lockdown, the National Masonic Vehicle Association held its first annual meeting on 5 September at the invitation of the Province of Worcestershire in the grounds of Worcester’s Rainbow Hill Masonic Centre. The event attracted more than 70 vehicle enthusiasts and their cars from as far afield as Yorkshire, Sussex, Pembrokeshire and Kent. Association President Geoffrey Dearing was at the event, which raised £1,700 for Worcester’s 2022 Festival. Robert Vaughan, the head of Worcestershire Freemasons and himself a keen classic car owner, was also there.

The aim of the NMVA is to forge links with likeminded Lodges and Masonic vehicle clubs who are keen to promote the interests of Freemasonry among their members, as well as encouraging membership, networking, events, trips and inter-Lodge visits. There are already 30 Lodges and Masonic Clubs from all across England and Wales that are members, plus a strong social media presence at www.nmva.org.uk

10 BERKSHIRE

Treasure trove

The Imperial Dinner, held at Sindlesham Court on 18 September played host to the official world launch of the English hallmarked limited editions of the Berkshire Hart Egg and Berkshire Hart Pendant.

The R W Provincial Grand Master Anthony HowlettBolton OBE, welcomed everyone, including Sir Paul and Lady Williams and Michelle and James Worvall. Sir Paul is the Deputy President and Chairman of the Trustees of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, and Michelle is Head of Communications for UGLE.

During the evening, guests were treated to a display of Fabergé eggs from the St Petersburg Collection, such as the Four Seasons, the Rose Garden, the Icon and the Hole in One. Over dinner, the Chairman of the St Petersburg Collection Philip Birkenstein presented a short history of the Fabergé family and the story of how Carl Fabergé became the jeweller to the Tsars of Russia. Philip also explained his friendship and association with Theo Fabergé, grandson of Carl, and the creation of the St Petersburg Collection.

The Provincial Grand Master showed the two reveals of the Berkshire Hart Egg, explaining the connection between Craft, Royal Arch and Mark Masonry.

Under the direction of the Chairman of the St Petersburg Collection, the Berkshire Hart Egg is based on the Bristol blue crystal Creation by Theo Fabergé ‘The Egg of the Covenant’. It has been conceived from the ‘Dragon’s Passion’, which was Theo Fabergé’s first fantasy collection of Passion Pendants, launched in 1991.

There are 33 eggs, representing the 33 Degrees of The Antient and Accepted Rite, and 100 pendants available to buy. A Berkshire Hart Egg is on display in the Library & Museum of Berkshire Freemasonry at Sindlesham Court. Email Gerry Preston, Provincial Grand Charity Steward: pgcs@berkspgl.org.uk

11 DURHAM

Doing the honours

A deputation led by the Provincial Grand Master John Arthur attended Lodge of Freedom at Stockton Masonic Hall to obligate, invest and appoint Andrew Moule as the new Assistant Provincial Grand Master.

After presenting Andrew with his chain of office, Provincial Grand Secretary Tom Gittings read out a special Charter for the Lodges’ Centenary. This was then handed to the current Master of the Lodge, Andrew Moule and all retired to dine at the Festive Board. Following the toast to the Provincial Grand Master, John Arthur asked John Thompson to assist him by presenting the 2021 Festivals Platinum award to the Lodge. Just at the point of John Thompson’s ‘photo opportunity’, John Arthur interrupted and asked John Thompson to remain standing while Tom Gittins read something out – the Provincial Grand Masters’

West Wales Freemasons present a cheque to the stars of Sister Act Certificate of Service to Freemasonry. John Arthur then presented the framed certificate to John Thompson. John responded, ‘I’m absolutely blown away to receive the Certificate of Service to Freemasonry from

the Provincial Grand Master. It’s been an absolute pleasure to support the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham over the past eight years and I will continue to do so from the back benches. It was wonderful tonight to see Andrew Moule invested as our new Assistant Provincial Grand Master. Many thanks to everyone who has supported me over the past few years.'

12 WEST WALES

Curtain call

West Wales Freemasons were delighted to support the Fishguard Musical Theatre Society at its performance of the musical Sister Act on 25 October in Ysgol Bro Gwaun, Fishguard. Provincial Festival Steward Stephen Roscoe and Worshipful Master of Strumble Lodge Eurig Evans presented cheques to members of the cast.

The West Wales Grand Charity gave £1,500 – the third such donation over the past three years, and Strumble Lodge gave £500 – the fifth such donation since the theatre society was founded. Altogether, the theatre society has received £9,500 from the West Wales Freemasons since it was established in 2016 and this support has enabled the society to restart following its closure during the pandemic. The society is a community group run by volunteers, with more than 100 members aged from five to 70. It gives people an outlet to perform, gain confidence and make new friends, while learning a new skill.

13 CORNWALL

Tech support

The Provincial Grand Lodge of Cornwall has supported the small charity Lifelites with a £2,000 donation so they can continue to provide assistive technology for life-limited and disabled children. These children are particularly isolated and vulnerable during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The life-changing technology donated by Lifelites enables children at Little Harbour Children’s Hospice to play with their brothers and sisters, communicate with their parents and control something themselves. Based in Cornwall, the Little Harbour Children’s Hospice service has been receiving assistive technology from Lifelites since it opened in December 2011.

Lifelites and the Freemasons of Cornwall are particularly aware that the pandemic has led to many people feeling extremely isolated, losing touch with their communities and experiencing additional stress. Everyone has been getting a living insight into what it is like to be a life-limited and disabled child; unable to leave the house independently, speak to people and socialise naturally. Lifelites-donated assistive technology enables extremely vulnerable children to overcome isolation, communicate their wishes and fears in this extraordinarily stressful time, and connect with their loved ones.

The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF, the Freemasons’ charity), matched the generous £1,000 donation by The Provincial Grand Lodge of Cornwall, enabling £2,000 to be provided to Lifelites.

Simone Enefer-Doy, chief executive of Lifelites said, ‘We are so grateful to have received the support of the Freemasons of Cornwall for many years now. Their donations help us make the impossible, possible for life-limited and disabled children using hospice services in Cornwall.’

14 GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Celebration of the Craft

Gloucestershire Freemasonry’s Family Service at Gloucester Cathedral was held on a sunny 10 October, when the Dean Stephen Lake gave those Freemasons attending an equally warm welcome after two and a half years’ absence due to COVID. He noted that the cathedral had not been closed since 1208. The High

Life-limited and disabled children receive support from Cornwall Freemasons Sheriff for Gloucestershire, Mrs RJ Tufnell, and the Deputy Lieutenant, Roger Head were there to witness this celebration of Freemasonry in the county.

15 HEREFORDSHIRE

In remembrance

During August, a team of four veterans of the Falklands War rode around the UK by motorbike, visiting the graves and memorials of men who lost their lives in the conflict in 1982. They covered a total of 2,600 miles in 15 days, visiting more than 80 graves and memorials during that time.

The team had several aims, to promote, including remembrance, respect, awareness and support. They wanted to show that these men are not forgotten, and they wanted to pay their respects to each one and the families of those lost. Also, the aim was to raise funds for the South Atlantic Association which continues to support veterans of the war and the families who have lost loved ones.

On Saturday 14 August, Gordon Mather of Dean Waterfield Lodge had the great privilege to host the team at a service held in the SAS memorial plot at St Martin’s church. To his surprise and delight, three of the bikers were Freemasons. Herefordshire’s Provincial Grand Master is himself a keen biker, indeed a founder member of Columbanus Lodge No. 9941 (a Lodge for motorcycle enthusiasts based in Somerset, but which meets peripatetically across Wiltshire and Gloucestershire too). So he met the team in Ross-on-Wye on Friday evening at a ceremony at the grave of Timothy Jenkins, killed in action aged just 19 while serving with the Parachute Regiment.

The following morning, Lee Oxenham of Dean Waterfield led the riders, along with 15 other bikers, to St Martins, where, once again, the PGM joined the team. Following the ceremony, the PGM accompanied the team on their next leg to Worcester.

16 NORFOLK

At your convenience

It has been a base for daring rescues and lifesaving feats since 1972, but Sea Palling Lifeboat Station has never had one of the most basic facilities – its own toilet.

For the past 49 years, volunteers at the station have had to use the nearby public toilets. The station also lacked a kitchen and rest area, and had only a makeshift shower.

But that has now changed thanks to support from Norfolk Freemasons, who have funded a Groundhog Mobile Welfare Unit for the station. This unit contains a chemical flush toilet, a crew room for storage of equipment and clothing and a COVID-friendly kitchen area that crew members and other emergency services can use after a rescue at sea.

Jennifer Roberts, secretary at the independently run station, said, ‘Traditionally, the majority of the crew were male, and everyone coped. But it’s more of a problem now and also anyone rescued might need to

use the public toilets. We do have a make-do shower used by the crew to wash the seawater off their dry suits when they return, but now with the additional space, a purpose-built shower can be installed away from the kitchen. We are so grateful to Norfolk Freemasons for providing us with the new unit, which has already made a positive impact on how we can operate.’

Presenting a plaque to mark the donation to coxswain Andreas Schroer, Stephen Allen, Head of Norfolk Freemasons, said, ‘Several of our Norfolk Lodges support Sea Palling lifeboat with donations to assist with running costs and maintenance of the lifeboats. Seeing the additional needs of the station, I am delighted to be able to give this significant grant from the Province on behalf of all our members. It will improve the comfort and operational facilities for the lifeboat crew and those in need of their lifesaving skills.’

17 SHROPSHIRE

Memories to music

The last 16 months represent the worst of the pandemic, During the various lockdowns, Shropshire Freemasons have been unable to help support families of members who have passed away at their funerals.

On Sunday 10 October, a full Shrewsbury Abbey witnessed a memorial service for the 50 or so who have died during that time. Their names were read, a candle lit, and the assembled members sang a special arrangement of the Closing Ode, composed for the occasion by DepPrGM Jeremy Lund. This included a memorable Pie Jesu descant by soprano Felicity Murphy and an equally moving recitation of the verses from Ecclesiastes by David Bromley.

Four rousing hymns with newly restored organ and a brass ensemble directed by Stephen Pritchard-Jones were led by the Abbey choir, which also sang a setting of Psalm 121 by Oswestry’s composer Walford Davies and Stanford’s Justorum Animae. PrG Chaplain

Brian Thomas conducted the service, and there were readings on Masonic themes by the Provincial Wardens.

Dennis Hill gave an account of the work of the charities with their Masonic partners, giving a clear reminder to all present that Freemasonry had not been idle, but had been working at the heart of the community throughout the pandemic. A very visible mark of that work was the Shrewsbury Food Hub van ‘Ronnie’, parked outside the Abbey. Named after Salopian Lodge of Charity’s WM Ron Gee, it almost doubled the capacity of the food hub.

18 SOMERSET

Bear necessities

The Somerset Teddies for Loving Care (TLC) programme was pleased to donate 100 teddy bears to Designability. The charity provides the truly amazing Wizzybug, an innovative, electric wheelchair for physically disabled children with amputations or other conditions that affect their ability to walk, including children with cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy, spina bifida or muscular dystrophy.

Somerset Freemasons present charity Designability with TLC teddies

19 NORTH WALES

Double celebration

North Wales Freemason Paul Williams initiated his son Mitchell Bryce Williams into Plas Teg Lodge No. 6898 in Caergwrle. Mitchell celebrated his 18th birthday on 1 October and is currently the youngest Member in North Wales.

20 SUFFOLK

Care in a crisis

K1 Britannia Foundation’s disaster relief and crisis team has successfully completed its relief efforts in Haiti after the tragic 7.2 earthquake on 14 August. Suffolk Freemasons, working together with the Masonic Charitable Foundation, donated £2,000 to enable the K1 team to respond within 48 hours of the crisis developing.

The team’s relief efforts took place within the main areas of emergency logistics and included the provision of personnel to load and offload much-needed supplies and equipment to affected areas. Based in Port-au-Prince, the team was able to help streamline and assist with managing emergency logistics at the Toussaint Louverture International Airport. This meant helping to manage flights carrying relief aid, supplies and personnel back and forth between the affected areas in the South and Port-au-Prince.

21 SUSSEX

On the frontline

Sussex Freemasons, through the Sussex Masonic Charity Foundation, have donated £30,000 to directly support NHS staff working in the major

Paul Williams had the honour of initiating son Mitchell Bryce Williams into his Lodge hospitals across the county. St Richards in Chichester, Worthing Hospital, the Royal Sussex County in Brighton, the Princess Royal in Haywards Heath, the Eastbourne District General Hospital and the Conquest Hospital in Hastings will each receive £5,000 to help improve the working experience of the frontline staff.

Dr Harry Walmsley, the chair of The Friends of Eastbourne General Hospital stated, ‘This money will be used for all sorts of things, from drinks and snacks through to camp beds for those staff who cannot get home because they are too busy, or their family are in isolation. We know that this support will be a huge morale boost for staff.’

Michael Harris, Chair of the Sussex Masonic Charity Foundation, said, ‘At this time of need, it is so important that we do all we can to help keep up the morale of frontline NHS staff. Sussex Freemasons fully support our incredible NHS, and we are delighted that we can play a small role in helping them and making their working lives a little more comfortable in their ongoing battle with this awful virus.’

22 JERSEY

Help through adversity

Brightly, the Jersey-based charity that supports children and young people in care, has received a £20,000 donation from Jersey Freemasons.

Formerly the Brig-y-Don Children’s Charity, Brightly supports between 160 and 250 children and young people in Jersey each year. Its aim is to help them make a life for themselves by providing financial support for education and training, health, wellbeing and independence. The funds donated will be used to support up to 10 young people in Jersey who have been in care and are now aged between 16 and 21 years, wishing to live independently, and who have the life skills to do so successfully.

Brightly will be offering each of them a one-off gift called an ‘Independent Moving On Grant’ (IMOG), agreed at the discretion of the Charity, up to the value of £2,000 per grant. The young person can use the funds to purchase, with the help of their social worker, items such as furniture, white goods, deposits/initial rents for independent accommodation, televisions, mobile phones, laptops and clothing for job interviews.

23 WORCESTERSHIRE

Welcome home

Worcestershire Freemasons have celebrated the opening of a new Freemasonry centre in Stourbridge after quitting their long-time Masonic hall at The Talbot Hotel, where they had been meeting for centuries.

The Deputy Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Sue Greenaway, and her consort, husband Desmond, attended the official opening of the new base at the former Carlisle Hall in Victoria Street on 29 August. A cheque for £150 was given by the Freemasons for the Mayor of Dudley’s chosen charities for 2021-22.

Wollaston resident Constance Webb cut the ribbon at the new centre, having bought the building for the Freemasons in memory of her late husband, James Webb.

The Stourbridge Masonic Management Co had been looking for a new place to meet for some time – having called the historic Talbot Hotel in Stourbridge High Street home since 1733. Lodges from Dudley have also joined the Stourbridge Freemasons in relocating to the new centre, which will be known as the James S Webb Freemasonry Centre.

The dedication ceremony itself was held under the banner of the oldest Stourbridge Lodge – the Lodge of Stability No. 564 – and attended by 82 members. The Provincial Grand Master Robert C Vaughan, accompanied by officers of Grand and Provincial rank, was the Dedicating Officer for the evening, which was followed by a Festive Board at Stourbridge Rugby Football Club.

Built in 1922 as a Temperance Hall in memory of the Countess of Carlisle, president of the British Women’s Temperance Association, the building was previously used by local charity Dudley Mind and before that the Women’s Royal Voluntary Society.

Left: Constance Webb cuts the ribbon. She bought the building in memory of her husband, James Webb

Dr Steven Bassett installed his successor David Jones as Worshipful Master 24 SOUTH WALES

A Masonic first

Dewi Sant Lodge No. 9067 made Masonic history with its installation at Bridgend Masonic Hall on 7 September 2021. This was the first time anywhere in the world that an installation was held completely in the Welsh language.

Located in the Province of South Wales, Dewi Sant Lodge was consecrated on St David’s Day (1 March) 1983. It was founded by 27 Freemasons with a love of all things Welsh, particularly the language, and originally met in Maesteg before moving to its current home, the Bridgend Masonic Hall, in 2006.

In April 2019 the Lodge was granted permission by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) to conduct ceremonies in Welsh. To date, Dewi Sant is the only Masonic Lodge in the English constitution permitted to carry out its ceremonies in Welsh.

This installation ceremony was translated into Welsh – and approved by UGLE – by Elfan Jones, the secretary of Dewi Sant Lodge.

In a memorable and historic ceremony, 54 members were present to witness Dr Steven Bassett flawlessly install his successor, David Jones, as Worshipful Master. David said, ‘Steve Bassett put a lot of work into memorising this historically significant ceremony for which I, as the first Worshipful Master to be installed in the Welsh language, am extremely grateful. I was very moved by the way Steve delivered the ceremony.’

The Executive Officer for the evening was Assistant Provincial Grand Master Stephen Harries, who was accompanied by the Provincial Deputy Director of Ceremonies, Mark Newbold, and Past Provincial Grand Steward, Peter Williams.

Stephen, who is not a first-language Welsh speaker, learned the address to the Worshipful Master in Welsh and delivered it perfectly, with conviction, passion, and full of Welsh ‘hywl’.

A large number of Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Lodge Officers attended the evening, including the Provincial Grand Master Gareth Jones OBE – who is a member of the Lodge – the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, William Jenkins, Assistant Provincial Grand Masters Marc Lewis and Kelvin Jones, Past PGM Captain Sir Norman Lloyd-Edwards, Past DPGM, Andrew Gretton and the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent E Comp Gerald Rowbottom. The Provincial Senior & Junior Grand Wardens, Almoner and Charity Steward were also in attendance.

Stephen said, ‘Having already undertaken the first initiation ceremony in the Welsh language in November 2019, this was an event that has been long awaited and was in no way a disappointment. The Installing Master was a Welsh learner and, to his immense credit, performed an immaculate ceremony, which was both impressive and emotional for those who had worked for so long and hard to reach this goal. It was also encouraging to see the initiate from November 2019, Wayne Robinson, present the firstdegree working tools to the Worshipful Master.’

The Provincial Grand Master, Gareth Jones, who – subject to the next election – is likely to be the Worshipful Master of the Lodge in 2022, said, ‘This was indeed a momentous occasion, both in the Masonic calendar for the Province of South Wales, and for Freemasonry in general under the constitution of the United Grand Lodge of England. It’s the first time anywhere in the world that an installation ceremony was undertaken entirely in the Welsh language.

‘I feel very privileged to have been present to witness it, and see it performed with such sincerity, professionalism and panache.’

Carla has just graduated from Barnard University in the US, an institution that is affiliated to Columbia

25 NORTHUMBERLAND

Passing it forward

A young Northumberland student has just graduated from the Columbia-affiliated Barnard University in the US, thanks to a helping hand from Northumberland Freemason Bill Leece and a kind legacy from late Tynecastle Lodge member Norman Johnson.

Bill first met Janice Melaco at an exercise group around 10 years ago, and chatted about her daughter Carla and her son Amonik and their various activities. He told her about being in the Freemasons and, with Brian Rudd’s help, they helped her with £500 each for Carla and Amonik to attend Youth Music Theatre. Carla, then 15, went to London while Amonik, 13, travelled to Plymouth, to hone their skills in dance, drama and acting.

A year later, Carla was given a flyer about applying to The Sutton Trust from her state school, Monkseaton High. The Sutton Trust US Programme is a once-in-a- lifetime opportunity for young people to explore what studying in the US is like. Although it is a fully funded programme, there are certain criteria. Applicants should attend a state-funded school, must not hold US citizenship, must be from a low- or middle-income family, and be interested in US culture and higher education. Among other stipulations, they also look for students who would be the first generation of their family to attend university, live in a neighbourhood with a low rate of progression into higher education, and have excellent GCSE qualifications.

Carla was accepted onto the scheme from about 2,000 applications, after which she enjoyed a week in the US to visit prospective universities. She chose Barnard largely because of its dance department but also because it is an inclusive institution that supports students of colour. Barnard’s motto is ‘Be Bold, Be Barnard’, and they inspire students to go on to be world leaders. The future looked bright, but Janice’s earnings couldn’t cover the additional costs of personal expenditure such as food and toiletries.

Bill Leece wanted to help out again. In 2018, he visited the Provincial Office to see whether Freemasons could offer further support. Several meetings were held with Carla and Janice, and a projected income and expenditure identified an annual shortfall of £4,000-£12,000. Brian Rudd, the Past Provincial Grand Secretary, had an idea. He referred to a legacy from Norman Johnson who had been a personal friend of his, and suggested that this would be the perfect use of that gift.

Norman was a member of Tynecastle Lodge No. 6317, went through the chair in 1982 and was part of the 1982 team of Masters. He was also a joining member of Celtic Lodge, Edinburgh & Leith and was a Past Master there too.

Professionally, Norman was a Bursar at a college in Durham and then in Consett, from where he retired. Norman was a great exponent of youth progression and a keen scout. Tragically, his wife died at a young age, and they never had a family of their own. But this did not stop Norman from taking an active interest in the development of young people. When he died in 2017, Norman bequeathed £20,000 to the Northumberland Masonic Charity Association, with a specific request that it be used for a local good cause rather than be added to Festival activities in support of the RMBI.

The Province put the suggestion of using Norman’s legacy to the Trustees of the NMCA, who readily agreed to support Carla to the full amount of £12,000 over the three years of her course.

It has certainly been put to good use. Happily, Carla has graduated and has recently been proposed and accepted into the Phi Beta Kappa fraternity, the oldest academic honour society in the US.

In 2003/4, I was a Sheriff of London and travelled the world with the then Lord Mayor, Sir Robert Finch. I was impressed by the number of countries promoting engineering apprenticeship schemes.

In 2016, I became President of the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society (founded 1799), which stages one of the biggest agricultural shows of the year. As a contribution to my year, I created an agricultural engineering apprenticeship scheme, which places school leavers with agricultural machinery companies with a view to encouraging them to become apprentices. The scheme has worked well.

Based on its success, I met with the Provincial Grand Master for Nottinghamshire, the Right Worshipful Brother Philip Marshall, who was keen to extend the education offer of the Province of Nottinghamshire. In line with UGLE’s strategic direction of encouraging us to take a greater role in local communities,

FUNDING FUTURE ENGINEERS

Geoffrey Bond OBE, DL describes the positive impact of The Midland Masonic Education Partnership

Images: NUAST

Left and right: MMEP engineering students in Nottingham University Academy of Science and Technology (NUAST) workshops

we saw an opportunity to be involved with more outreach work with young people, particularly those experiencing financial hardship. Discussions also took place with the Lord-Lieutenant for Nottinghamshire, Sir John Peace, who is chairman of the Midlands Engine and who supported our wish to create a Masonic engineering apprenticeship scheme.

I had discussions with Robert White, the Principal of Nottingham University Academy of Science and Technology (NUAST), a great supporter of science and technology schemes who was pleased to work with us.

In 2017, Worshipful Brother Barry Woodhead, Provincial Grand Charity Steward for Nottinghamshire, headed a committee taking the apprenticeship idea forward and creating the Midland Masonic Education Partnership (MMEP), an element of which is the apprenticeship scheme for engineering science and technology. It has proved very successful.

A key aim of the MMEP is to make a contribution in assisting young people into work within the county, helping to improve productivity and strengthening the local economy. As we know, there is a great shortage of engineering apprentices and NUAST is doing much to remedy this situation. It has many students from a diversity of backgrounds and they are given an opportunity to study in a variety of engineering-based subjects. The science element is founded on a broad spectrum, whereas technology is more focused on computer programming, seen as vital in modern engineering.

The MMEP has worked with local schools, companies and organisations willing to take students on placements to give them further experience. Financial support is also forthcoming from the MMEP; for example in September 2017 it provided support for students from NUAST going on an exchange programme to an academy in China. From time to time, distinguished guest speakers in the engineering field also support the MMEP.

Our outcomes include: • A transformational life experience for young people studying science and/or technology for those intending to go into traineeships or higher apprenticeships in Nottinghamshire. • Improved student understanding of the needs of the workplace in qualitative and quantitative terms. It is hoped that individuals will become more ‘work ready’. • An appreciation of different cultures and methodologies in the global setting of industry and competition. The success of the MMEP is such that I recommend it to those in Provinces who are considering further education initiatives. In particular, more support for engineering apprenticeships is required. Such initiatives are invaluable to the young people concerned, and promote important educational outreach programmes by Freemasons.

The scheme has assisted young people from schools and academic institutions such as NUAST (above) into work or placements

MAKING A COMEBACK

Bro Ronnie Scott has returned to Freemasonry after a 37-year absence – and the WWII veteran has a century of action-packed experience to share with his Lodge

The District Grand Lodge of South America, Southern Division has many stories to tell, but none more special than that of the extraordinary life of Bro Ronnie Scott of Pampa Lodge No. 2329. Ordinarily, when a gentleman joins a Lodge there is very little fanfare. However, when that gentleman is returning to the Craft after a 37-year absence, is over 100 years old, flew Spitfires for Britain in World War II and has recently starred in a documentary about his own life, one does take notice.

Ronald David Scott, or ‘Ronnie’ to his fellow members, was born in Buenos Aires in October 1917, to an English mother and a Scottish father. Today, he still lives in the city and is a keen cyclist and occasional footballer at the local sports club. During the pandemic, Ronnie rekindled his passion for Freemasonry and joined Pampa Lodge No. 2329, 37 years after his mother Lodge had been erased.

One of the stories he likes to tell is of the event that started his unique adventures. ‘I used to go to the Hurlingham Club and I was watching a polo match when someone galloped right up to the fence. I realised it was Edward Windsor,’ he says.

The then Prince of Wales and later Edward VIII asked the 13-year-old Ronnie if he would mind fetching him some tonic and they started up a conversation. They talked about the recently

docked British aircraft carrier HMS Eagle. Ronnie’s enthusiasm must have been quite something as the prince arranged a private tour. While on board, Ronnie saw biplanes from World War I. ‘I came away and I knew I was going to be a naval pilot,’ he recalls.

Ronnie was 21 when World War II began in September 1939, and living in a neutral Argentina led Ronnie to question his own identity. Many of those around him were admirers of the Nazis. Ronnie’s attitude was very different, partly because his parents were British and all too well aware of Hitler’s atrocities. Being Argentinian, he was not obliged to risk his life, but did so because of an overpowering sense of justice.

In 1942 he was one of the 2,000 Argentine volunteers, both men and women, who would fight in the British Armed Forces. Of those, 860, like Ronnie, joined the Royal Navy. He left Argentina at the beginning of 1943, aged 25. Ronnie spent five weeks in Britain before travelling to undergo pilot training in Canada at an airfield close to Lake Huron. He flew with 794 Naval Air Squadron, part of the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm, where he was involved in pilot and aircrew training.

In late 1944, he joined London’s attempts to combat the enemy’s V1 flying bombs. Based at the Naval headquarters in Greenwich, Ronnie found himself in command of the fire, ambulance and home guard response in charge of the area around St Paul’s Cathedral. ‘There were occasions when you knew you were hanging on a thread. War is a horrible thing. There are people with families who get shelled out of existence.’

After returning home from the war, Ronnie got a job as a commercial pilot and married his sweetheart Marion in 1950. He was initiated in St David’s Lodge No. 3952 in 1955 and stayed a member until it was erased in the 1980s. Sadly, Marion passed away in 2014, but she left Ronnie with two wonderful sons and three grandchildren.

Ronnie still lives in Buenos Aires and often visits the Buenos Aires British cemetery to pay his respects to former friends and comrades at the Royal British Legion memorial wall. The inscription reads: ‘In memory of our volunteers from Argentina who died fighting for the freedom we enjoy today. We will never forget them.’

In 2019, award-winning British filmmaker Alex Bescoby made a documentary about Ronnie. His film, Buena Onda: The Tale Of Ronnie Scott, was released in March and is available on Vimeo. ‘Buena onda’ is slang for ‘good vibes’ or ‘cool’.

Alex Bescoby says, ‘Ronnie is a remarkable, wonderful man with a philosophy of life that we could all learn from. It’s hard to believe he is 104. The energy of the man... I ended up in awe.’

Ronnie doesn’t think of himself a hero in wartime or peacetime, he simply considers himself lucky to have had such a long and fulfilling life. It is a philosophy we can all learn from.

Centenarian Ronnie joined Pampa Lodge No. 2329 after a 37-year absence from the Craft

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