QUARTERLY PUBLICATION PROVINCE OF DURHAM FREEMASONS
Whats inside
04 16 19
Masons With A Spring in Their Step 4 Steps To A Bright Future Light Blues Events Start With A Bang
www.durhamfreemasons.org SUMMER 2019 | ISSUE 34
Spring brings out Festival Walkers 1 www.durhamfreemasons.org
Editor’s Notes May 12th saw Durham kick off our 2019 festival events programme with a spring coastal walk from Crimdon Dene to Seaham Masonic Centre, and brethren also journeyed north across the border to partake in The Great Glen Canoe Trail, both highly successful and we look forward with anticipation to a host of exiting and innovative events throughout the year. Having restyled this publication we are well on the way to seeing the launch of the rebranded Website which will see both Craft and Chapter equally represented as we continue to rebrand and embrace the Provincial Grand Master’s vision for the future of Freemasonry in our Province. Paul O’Doherty Editor
local community, together with any other matters of interest, to the Communications Team who rely heavily upon your editorial contributions. To ensure your area of the Province is covered in future issues, please email news@news.pgldurham.org
Please continue to report events within your lodge and
What’s Inside Page 05
Page 11
Heartstart Programme
Poppy Ready for World Stage
Page 07
Page 14
New Suits for GNASS
Talking Heads
Solomon QR If you know of anyone who might prefer or benefit from an audio version of this Gazette then email: news@news.pgldurham.org to order a copy for them now!
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@PGLDurham
PGLDurham
www.durhamfreemasons.org
Big Band Jazz Bill Watson of Bede College Lodge and St. Cecilia Lodge has organised the Great North Big Band Jazz Festival over the last sixteen years. This year, Kenneth E C Howe, a keen musician himself, was invited to the three day event to present trophies to the wining bands, musicians and singers
Kenneth E C Howe presenting the Trophy to the winning singer from Musical Youth Jazz of Huddersfield accompanied by the Judges
“The audience were treated to an abundance of high quality music”
This year a record number of thirty two bands converged on Chester-le-Street, between 1st and 3rd March, to compete. There were over seven hundred musicians. The Festival attracted a wide audience who were overwhelmed by the high quality of music, not only from the Open section, but also from the Schools and Youth sections It is the biggest Big Band Jazz Festival in the whole of the United Kingdom, attracting
many of the top bands and was the most successful event to have been held since it commenced some 16 years ago. Freemasons of Chester-leStreet attended and provided and managed a bar, on a shift system, to cater for the hundreds of people present. Kenneth said “It was a privilege to be part of this most wonderful and inspiring Music Festival. Great credit must go to Bill Watson for the time and effort he puts in to organising this annual event. Freemasonry obtained a huge amount of publicity, not only in the Programme itself, but from the stage during the presentation of awards and the bar, so all could witness that Freemasonry was involved.
Time off For Fun 170 Brethren and guests congregated at Hardwick Hall on Saturday 23rd March for the 11th Stewards’ Ball. This invitational event has been hosted at Hardwick for several years and the hosts lived up to their reputation for fine food and service, together with the excellent ‘TonerRiders’, making this another landmark occasion for the Province’s ‘workhorse’ on their night off from official duties.
Dancing the night away
ToneRiders www.durhamfreemasons.org
The Brethren of Durham Provincial Grand Stewards’
Lodge are usually the ones seen milling around at the edges of events, ensuring the smooth running and enjoyment of others, so this is the one Masonic night that they get to sit back. Together with their guests and Stewards past from the 9833 Club, they can enjoy an evening with good company, good food and good musical entertainment. Carriages duly arrived at midnight, heralding the end of another great night with friends and family and a day off before starting to plan the next Ball.
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Masons with a Spring in their Step
On Sunday 12th May 2019, Brethren and families of the Durham Province set off for a 12mile coastal walk from Crimdon Dene to Seaham Masonic Centre. The Festival Director John Thompson started off the walk and, with trusty words of encouragement, the 22 walkers and 6 marshals set off knowing they had already raised £3,000 towards the Durham 2021 Festival. John thanked each one of them for taking on this challenge; he also thanked Ivan Lowther for suggesting and organising the event. The sun was shining when the walkers set off and the heat continued to rise throughout the day. Along the walk, plenty of water and chocolate bars were available for the walkers to boost their energy levels. Also, there to greet them was the Provincial Grand Master John Arthur, his wife Joan and their trusty dog Chloe, who attends most of the outside Festival Events each year.
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The walkers enjoyed some fabulous views along the North East coastline, and all was going well apart from a few blisters and, thankfully, major first aid was not needed. Along the route the walkers were able to encounter and enjoy the local wildlife. The camaraderie shared by the walkers was lovely to see for all who had ventured from all corners of our Province, supported by family member and friends. The going was tough, with some uphill challenges not in the script when it was first suggested as a Stroll up the coastline. However, the walkers were not put off and carried on regardless. With the finishing line in sight and Seaham Masonic Centre opening its doors for refreshment, our walkers took a well-earned rest. Congratulations to all 22 walkers making it to the end and raising to date over £5,000. Thank you also to Ivan Lowther,
A well earned rest for all
our support team and Seaham Masonic Centre for making this event possible.
Tom Gittins enjoys the Sunshine
Now which way do we go
“The going was tough, with some uphill challenges not in the script when it was first suggested as a Stroll up the coastline...” www.durhamfreemasons.org
Heartstart Programme Brian Footitt, project coordinator with the first defibrillator to be installed at Seaham Masonic Hall.
“Research has shown that over 60% of the public would not intervene if they came across somebody who had had a cardiac arrest, not because they didn’t care but because they were unsure as to how they could help.” The Province of Durham Community Heartstart programme is a joint initiative between the Province and the North East Ambulance Service, (NEAS) reaching out into and supporting local communities around masonic halls. Durham Freemasons have allocated £10,000 to support initially, up to 10 masonic halls to A) Purchase and install a public access defibrillator (PAD) outside a masonic Hall which would always be available for community use. B) As well as providing the PAD each of the participating halls will identify a team of volunteers who will provide ongoing awareness training to public groups at least twice a year.
www.durhamfreemasons.org
This will provide further opportunities for local freemasons to provide a public service and add value to their local community. Research has shown that over 60% of the public would not intervene if they came across somebody who had had a cardiac arrest, not because they didn’t care but they were unsure as to how they could help. The NEAS will be providing accredited training using the British Heart Foundation heart start training programme and will provide ongoing advice and support to these volunteer trainers. The Freemasons of Durham Province will part fund PAD in partnership with the masonic hall. “It is proposed that we support 10 halls around the Province and review rolling it out to all halls, subject to the lessons learned from the pilot scheme, which will see units installed at see units installed at masonic halls in Seaham, Sunderland Burdon Road, Hartlepool Raby Road and Billingham.”
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Your Masonic Centre “A key element in recruitment, retention and experience of our members is to ensure that the facilities where we meet and practice our freemasonry are fit for purpose” A recent presentation by the Grand Secretary illustrated the efforts being made by United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) to establish a more business-like approach to the management of Freemasons’ Hall in London, The Grand Lodge Building. The presentation was not only inspirational, but also suggested that this professional approach should be mirrored throughout the Provinces. A key element in recruitment, retention and experience of our members is to ensure that the facilities where we meet and practice our freemasonry are fit for purpose and are places where we feel comfortable to meet with our friends, socialise and look forward to visiting. Good quality facilities are better able to be used for social functions and by external
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organisations, to generate income and can attract new, younger members to our organisation. There is now an extremely useful and practical document “Centres of Excellence” (b.ugle.org.uk/ masonic-centres) available to all. The document contains guidance on the preferred ownership structure of masonic centres, financial management, maintenance of the building etc, together with examples of successful masonic centres throughout the country. Within the Province of Durham there is clearly an overall excess of capacity and many halls are struggling to cope with reduced income, rising maintenance costs, increased subscription rates and deteriorating buildings. This is a short term approach and does not address the future
needs of younger members and recruitment. A few of the more successful centres have already invested in refurbishment of facilities and this has created vibrancy, with stabilisation of, or limited increase in, membership. The Province of Durham has no direct control over any of the buildings, but does have a responsibility to ensure that the needs of freemasons in general are met and that freemasonry thrives in fit for purpose facilities to 21st century standards. There is an urgent case for rationalising the ownership of the buildings in accordance with the guidelines prepared by UGLE. The preferred model is that of a Limited Company with Lodges being the shareholders. It is acknowledged that in some
rural areas, the masonic centre may be a focal point for local activities and this community facility should not be ignored when considering the future of its masonic use. The Province of Durham has established an Asset Management team, led by Gordon Brewis with Ian Turnbull and other experienced professionals, to assist and support hall management teams in addressing the key issues. In a series of presentations, at various centres throughout the Province, the Asset Management Team will explain and expand upon the important issues. The presentations are open to all members with an interest in the future of their halls and there will be an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the issues in an open forum. www.durhamfreemasons.org
New Suits For GNAAS
The critical care teams of the Great North Air Ambulance Service wear their new uniforms for the first time. After five years, the charity has replaced its orange two-piece suits with more contemporary red and black equivalents, you will recall that back in November 2018 at the Provincial Promotions Meeting we not only handed over the keys of a gleaming new fully equipped 4×4 Volvo XC90 Rapid Response Vehicle, to be used by the Critical Care Team, but a further donation to GNAAS of £1,000 to purchase 2 Crew Flight Suits. www.durhamfreemasons.org
We are delighted to receive the news that the suits provided by Durham Freemasons are now in use by the critical care teams, at the recent launch of the new kit, critical care paramedic Jamie Walsh said: “We needed new, better quality uniforms to meet the demands of a fast-paced pre-hospital care work environment. With our base move just around the corner, the time felt right to move away from the orange of old to the new red and black suits. Everyone is really happy with them.”
Paramedics Ian and Kate
Mr Walsh added: “As with everything we do, we owe it to our supporters for providing the financial backing. With them behind us, the service is
getting better all the time, and these uniforms are just another small but not insignificant improvement along the way. Thank you.”
“We are delighted to receive the news that the suits provided by Durham Freemasons are now in use by the critical care teams” 7
Help for Less Fortunate Families
On Tuesday 5th February, The Provincial Grand Master, John Arthur accompanied by Duncan Maw (Durham Benevolence) and Brian Footitt OBE Durham MCF Representative presented a cheque for £30,000 on behalf of the Masonic Charitable Foundation to Community Project Manager of Groundwork NE & Cumbria, Natalie Whitworth. Up to 400 of Darlington’s children and their families will be receiving regular meals and taking part in fun activities over the summer break thanks to a grant from Durham freemasons. The £30,000 grant to the Groundwork NE and Cumbria charity will be helping some of the 21 per cent of Darlington’s children between the ages of five and 11 across Red Hall,
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Cockerton, Firthmoor and Skerne Park. During the school holidays, many families require additional support and this project will help provide meals as well as physical activity. The children and their families will attend sessions a dozen times over the six-week summer holiday. Alongside the games and activities, the children will receive a nutritious breakfast and lunch. Parents will also be invited to attend some of the sessions, giving them valuable opportunities to cook, eat, and play with their children, as well as receiving advice on how they can be further supported to maximise household income. Throughout the four areas in Darlington in which Groundwork will focus its efforts, Red Hall, Firthmoor, Skerne Park, and
“Parents will also be invited to attend some of the sessions, giving them valuable opportunities to cook, eat, and play with their children” Cockerton, the charity will work with local schools to identify the children most in need of the programme. Given the previous delivery of these types of projects it is evident that this grant is set to make a huge difference to Darlington children and their families. The grant from Durham freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales. The presentation took place at the Skerne Park Community Centre where Natalie introduced John, Duncan and Brian to some of the parents and children who will benefit from the grant while at the same time showing the facilities available at the Centre.
Lisa Locke, Programme Manager for Groundwork NE and Cumbria said: “We’re very grateful to Durham freemasons for their generous grant which will help us in our work with local children to create happy memories of the summer and support in developing their skills during our activities.” Brian Footitt said: “I’m very pleased we’re able to help Groundwork with their outstanding programme in Darlington. There are, sadly, hundreds of children and their families who badly need support from charities like Groundwork who give assistance by providing balanced meals during the summer break at centres like the Skerne Park Community Centre.
www.durhamfreemasons.org
The crew having fun
Grand Rank Conferred “This special meeting sees brethren from all corners of the world receiving well-deserved Grand Lodge appointments and promotions” Wednesday 24th April saw people from all over the world descend, once again, on the home of Freemasonry, at Freemasons Hall in Covent Garden, London, hosted the Annual Investiture Meeting of United Grand Lodge of England. This special meeting sees brethren from all corners of the world receiving well-deserved Grand Lodge appointments and promotions, conferred on them by the Most Worshipful Pro Grand Master Peter Lowndes The Grand Temple Grand Temple is a magnificent sight at all times, but most particularly when it is full to capacity for this most special of occasions. The Province of Durham was, as usual, extremely well represented as brethren from every part of our Province congregated to support those receiving honours.
www.durhamfreemasons.org
Receiving First Appointments were: Ian Charles Knighting Lodge of Industry No48 – PAGStB Paul O’Doherty Hebburn Lodge No7201 – PAGStB Promoted to Past Grand Sword Bearer Stephen William Walker Marquess of Ripon Lodge No1379 – PGSwdB Promoted to Past Senior Grand Deacon Gordon Brewis Sincerity Lodge No6036 – PSGD Michael Graham Hebburn Lodge No7201 – PSGD “After a fantastic meeting on the Wednesday, it was off to Great Queen Street again on Thursday to support those Companions being recognised with Grand Rank in Supreme Grand Chapter. Again, the Grand Temple was almost filled to capacity, and was resplendent, as the Companions assembled, adorned in their vibrant crimson and blue regalia.
The Durham companions honoured on this occasion were: Jonathan Andrew Dixon Old Barnardian No9358 – GStB (Acting Rank) Thomas Fred Gittins Tees Chapter No509 – PGStB Kenneth Urquhart Robson Mariner Chapter No3217 – PGStB David Anthony Turner John George Gibson Chapter No2929 – PAGDC Promoted to Past Grand Sword Bearer Michael Stuart Shaw Tees Chapter No509 – PGSwdB Promoted to Past Assistant Grand Sojourner John Bamborough Gibson City Chapter No3568 – PAGSoj We congratulate them all on honours very well deserved and wish them the best of health and happiness to enjoy their new preferments
There was support of Companions from around the world, and a healthy contingent winged its way from the Province of Durham to witness The First Grand Principal HRH The Duke of Kent himself, invest the worthy companions with the himself, invest the worthy companions with the fruits of their efforts.
9 Being introduced to The Princess Royal
Back of The Net for Gretton Crest the opportunity to train three times a week at the West View Primary School. The Club also gives youngsters a chance to play in matches on a Saturday, participating in the Russell Foster League, playing across Durham, Sunderland & Newcastle.
Back Row L-R Lewis Ayers, Gary White, Peter Richardson, Bill Florentine and Laurie Leck Representatives of the ‘Hartlepool Masonic Benevolent Association’ (HMBA) presenting the cheque to ‘’Gretton Crest Hartlepool FC’’
‘Gretton Crest Hartlepool FC’ has now been up and running for 4 years. The Club was set up in memory of Mick Gretton, who was a close friend and former football coach with the club chairman Mark Lupton, and who, together over the years, have coached and supported lots of
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children through grassroots football. Gretton Crest is a small club in an underprivileged area of Hartlepool. It is run entirely by volunteers and provides 50 boys and girls, aged from just three through to eleven, with
Recently, five representatives of the ‘Hartlepool Masonic Benevolent Association’ (HMBA) and Brethren of Clarence Lodge, presented the Club with a cheque for £1,000. This sponsorship money will be used towards the purchase of training kit and equipment for all of the children who attend the club, The Club very much appreciates all contributions to help keep it up and running and supporting the children through grassroots football. It is always looking for further sponsorship for training equipment, footballs etc. and it relies, almost completely, on donations from local businesses and supporters.
www.durhamfreemasons.org
Poppy Ready For World Stage “Poppy is preparing to fight on a world stage after following in her mother Marissa’s footsteps”
The Freemasons of the Province of Durham were happy to support Chi Taekwondo expert Poppy Wickens, from Spennymoor, with a £250 Community Support Grant to help her to compete in Germany. Poppy is preparing to fight on a world stage after following in the footsteps of her mother. Marissa, who was seven-times British Champion during the 1990s, Poppy became a National Taekwondo Champion by winning Gold at the National Championships, held this year in Manchester, the home of www.durhamfreemasons.org
Team GB . She is now preparing to represent Great Britain in the European President’s Cup in Germany. The Ox Close Primary School pupil began training when she was just four years old and fell in love with the sport. She now trains three or four times a week and was one of the first children to join its Peewee scheme for the youngest talented members. Russell Shaw, Poppy’s stepfather and head coach at Chi Spennymoor, said, “In Germany there will be at least
eight rings, about 4,000 people in the arena and they will be long days.” The club based in Spennymoor Leisure Centre has been established for over 25 years and offers a range of classes from beginners through to professionals. Jack Richardson and Brian Bulmer, representing the Durham Freemasons, had to be on their best behaviour when presenting the grant to Poppy, which will go towards the entrance fees, travelling expenses and lodgings.
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Operation Wallacea “Due to the demanding nature of the expedition, volunteers will be required to live in a basic camp environment” Fourteen-year-old Eily Piggot a student at Hermitage Academy in Chester-le-Street was bubbling over with excitement on hearing, she had been awarded a Community Support Grant of £250 towards her forthcoming research expedition to Indonesia, as part of Operation Wallacea.
Eily and Mother Viki
Students from Co. Durham schools are being offered the chance to apply to take part in this research project. Due to the demanding nature of the expedition, volunteers will be required to live in a basic camp environment and undertake long treks under challenging conditions. North Buton Nature Reserve, where the main student camp is situated, is a sub location of Indonesia and represents a vast area of unexplored, lowland rainforest. The region supports an array of different habitats that remain largely unknown to science. Importantly, it is also a stronghold for the critically endangered dwarf buffalo. After
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completing a three-day ‘jungle survival’ course and learning about Wallacean wildlife and conservation, volunteers will assist a team of biologists seeking to document the valleys rich biodiversity. Biologists will focus on mammalian, avian, herpetological and amphibian faunal assemblages. Survey techniques will include the use of camera traps, distance and patch occupancy estimates for large mammal species, mist netting for bats, standard search transects for reptiles, spotlight surveys for amphibians, pollard walks for butterflies and point counts for birds. The trip is self-funding, so Eily is working hard to cover the overall cost of £3,250, having raised £1,250 so far through donations and sponsorship. Stewart K Bell, was delighted to meet with Eily and her mother Vicki who sent a big thank you to the Freemasons of Durham for this most welcome donation.
www.durhamfreemasons.org
A New Beginning
ROLL OF HONOUR The following brethren qualified to receive certificates to mark long service to Freemasonry. Hebburn Gavel
60 YEARS CRAFT: Robert J Wilson Amity 3193 Lawrence Tinkler Eardulph 6645 Joseph Harding St Hilda 240
50 YEARS CRAFT:
The 25th February 2019 will be a day to be remembered by members of the newly amalgamated Hebburn Lodge No 7201. In the words of John Arthur, the Provincial Grand Master, “this was a unique day in the Province of Durham as this is the very first Amalgamated Craft Lodge and, possibly, a new way forward to address the decline in membership and, hopefully, to bring a better experience to new members. The evening started with the Provincial Amalgamation Team, led by John, formally entering the Lodge after it had been opened and proceeding to conduct the ceremony in front of a full Lodge Room. The Provincial Chaplain, Ron Black, set the scene with his prayers, oration and the dedication of
Lodge regalia and furnishings. The new Lodge Warrant was formerly presented to Lewis Curry, the Worshipful Master, after the surrender of the Palmer and Heabrym Warrants, which will be filed as important parts of history in this “new beginning”. The Celebration banquet which followed was attended by over ninety Brethren and all were served an excellent meal by the catering staff. The formal toasts were observed and, in the reply to his toast. the Provincial Grand Master John thanked all who had made this day so very special, with special reference to Michael Graham, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, and Paul O’Doherty, whose purpose and drive had made it happen. The absence of Michael because
of illness was a huge blow to him personally, but he had relayed his good wishes and hope that all present would enjoy the evening and strive to make the Lodge a success. Lewis Curry presented the Provincial Grand Master with a cheque for £720.10 towards the Festival and this was duly passed on the Festival Director, John Thompson. That cheque took Hebburn Lodge to its Silver Award target and John presented the Charity Representative, Michael Graham (Snr) with the badge and wished him well in his endeavours to attain the Gold Award, the next Lodge target.
50 YEARS ROYAL ARCH: Good luck Hebburn Lodge No 7201. May your future be long and happy.
“This was a unique day in the Province of Durham as this is the very first Amalgamated Craft Lodge” www.durhamfreemasons.org
Barry W B Newton Wear Valley 1121 Herbert G Brown Achates 9465 Albert C Douglas Palatine 97 John Robson Achates 9465 Stuart W Lightwing Lodge of Jurists 8956 Alan M Hill Lodge of Fellowship 9694 Raymond Walmsley Washington 4346 Edwin Howell Bedic 5915 Gordon McAllister Perseverance 1643 Milton Moore Albion 5530 Jeremiah Clish Penshaw 3194 Derek Armstrong Cestria 4493 Gilbert Thompson Hedworth 2418 Thomas P Watson Quest 7102 Colin Lee Norman 1334 Malcolm Ross Shipcote 3626 Jack Blackburn Vulcan 5757
Kenneth Kent Lambton 375 Stan Fitches Lambton 375 Charles Marshall Old Dunelmian 8100 Ronald Gray Tow Law 3349 Alan Simpson Washington 4346
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Talking Heads The Next Step: Into the Royal Arch
The Talking Heads Team gathers pace; the Deputy Grand Superintendent, Michael Shaw and his team have now performed a number of presentations around the Province. This initiative introduces the Holy Royal Arch (or Chapter) to new Brethren who are not members and re-introduces the Order to Brethren who may previously have been members. “Talking Heads” is a short play about an encounter between two lodge members; one an experienced Past Master (and
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Royal Arch Companion) and the other a Master Mason curious to know more.
being a member, how to discover more and how to find a Chapter to join.
The encounter takes place just outside the lodge room at a Craft meeting, with the two brothers opening their cases and getting prepared for their meeting. It covers the history of the Order and explanation of the regalia. Further, it deals with links to the Craft, and why the Royal Arch is considered to be the completion of pure Antient Freemasonry. Finally it deals with the time and financial commitments involved in
A short discussion follows this ‘light-hearted’ and entertaining demonstration, encouraging brethren to consider joining the RA; then, having joined, to attend Chapter meetings and to get more involved. All Masons are invited to attend; if you would like a visit from the demonstration team please contact Provincial office.
“This initiative introduces the Holy Royal Arch (or Chapter) to new Brethren” www.durhamfreemasons.org
South Shields Masons Set the Benchmark By way of commemorating the end of the First World War, South Shields Freemason Phil Stephenson made an approach to the Local Authority with a view to installing a Commemorative Bench in Harton Cemetery, South Shields. While the Authority were enthusiastic about the idea, owing to financial cutbacks they indicated they were unable to fund it themselves. As a result, together with Norman Dunn, Phil approached the Chairman of the Hall Management Committee of the South Shields Lodges and all nine Lodges were each asked to donate £100.00 towards the cost of the bench, which they did gladly. This enabled the purchase of a high-quality bench and, with the assistance of grave diggers, Kevin, Gary and Dave,
who are not Masons, the seat was installed to the front of the Chapel entrance in the central part of the Cemetery. The installation was undertaken in their own spare time, for which we are all grateful. The Provincial Chaplain, Ron Black, dedicated the bench on Saturday morning, 13th April 2019, in front of strong representation from the Lodges concerned. Ron paid tribute to the bravery of the armed services during the Great War and the many who lost their lives, many of whom are at rest in Harton Cemetery. He also gave thanks to the Freemasons of South Shields for their generosity. The full dedication is set out at the end of this article The quality of this bench ensures that it will be there for many years to come.
L-R: Norman Dunn, Cannon Black and Phil Stephenson
“While the Authority were enthusiastic about the idea, owing to financial cutbacks they indicated they were unable to fund it themselves.” www.durhamfreemasons.org
THE BENCH DEDICATION: “We are gathered here today to offer thanks to God for the brethren of the South Shields Masonic Lodges who have worked to bring this moment into being, This bench has been placed here as a memorial to the ending of the Great War of 1914 – 18 in which so many gave their lives in the cause of peace and freedom. May all who use this bench and take rest upon it be ever mindful of all those men and women who served and died in that conflict, those who have served in all past conflicts and those who serve now and in the future. In your name O God I now dedicate this bench as a memorial and beseech your blessing on it and in your loving wisdom and almighty power keep us ever mindful to be worthy and work within the principles of peace, love and harmony to the honour and glory of your great and Holy name, this day and for evermore. Amen.”
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4 Steps To A Bright Future
Wednesday 22nd May 2019 saw the Lancastrian Suite, Dunston, once more awash with crimson, purple and blue and that could mean only one thing, The Annual Convocation of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Durham.
“Our new initiative 4 Steps will be seen and heard throughout the coming months.” 16
The Convocation meeting is the highlight of the year for those companions being appointed and invested to Provincial Grand Rank. On completion of
the investitures the escorting carrousel of Director of Ceremonies retired back to their positions. In his address: The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, EComp John Arthur announced a major new initiative, stating, “Over the years we have introduced numerous initiatives to swell our companion numbers in this Provincial Grand Chapter. Despite that the percentage of
Brethren in the Royal Arch has stubbornly stayed at around the 40% mark for the last 10 years. Following a demonstration using Brethren in the age groups 80, 70 ,60, 50,40 all being invited to stand, before then sitting back down in age descending order, all but a few Companions were standing below the age of 40, graphically illustrated of our aging membership.
The message from the top is clear:
“Our new initiative 4 Steps will be seen and heard throughout the coming months to remind us all that we have a job to do. We all need to enthusiastically encourage new masons to join the Royal Arch. It is not just a job for the Royal Arch Representative, the Mentor or their proposer and seconder. We are all responsible. Our aim initially is to raise the 40% to at least 50% and beyond. It is our enthusiasm and support that will make this happen. Your Challenge, should you choose to accept it, is to bring in just one new companion in the next year and we will be well on our way. Let us get 4 steps firmly entrenched in our thoughts and actions”. This is not ‘A MISSION IMPOSSIBLE’ In closing The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, thanked everyone who has been involved in the organisation if this special day. Members of the secretariat, the DC Team, Provincial Stewards, Events team, Comms. team and the many volunteers who have helped in all sorts of ways to ensure that this event is an enjoyable experience and is run smoothly.
www.durhamfreemasons.org
Official opening of “ Tombola House “
Dave Doorwood, Michael Cronin, Philip Cronin CEO of Tombola, Robin Middleton and Paul Swansbury.
Dave Doorwood, Chairman & Paul Swansbury, Secretary of Queen Street Heritage Trust & Queen Street Masonic Temple Ltd with Robin Middleton, Director of Queen Street Masonic Temple Ltd were invited along to the Opening of “Tombola House” the online bingo company’s new flagship building based in Sunderland. Philip Cronin, a local businessman and CEO of Tombola Ltd, with his son Michael, were presented with a commemorative history of Wylam Wharf in appreciation for the support received from Tombola for the Queen Street Heritage Trust. Philip had a vision to expand his company, using the existing site at Wylam Wharf in Sunderland. Lack www.durhamfreemasons.org
of space available to accommodate the increased number of employees was preventing him from fulfilling his dream of developing the site. By chance Philip spotted the car parking area attached to the Queen Street Masonic Hall and making an approach to Robin Middleton who had luckily been on site, posed the question as to who to speak with regarding his employees using the parking facility. Robin directed Philip to The Heritage Trust who own the building and a meeting was soon arranged. This resulted in a collaboration to refurbish the car park and allow Tombola to use the area during the day and fulfilling one of the requirements for planning permission to be approved.
The Trust then set about the not so simple task of planning applications. The building itself is one of only two grade 1 listed in Sunderland. There were many anomalies with relation to the title of land surrounding the building which had crept in since it was first built in 1785, also many negotiations involving Historic England and the local Conservation Officer to ensure proposals were agreeable in the best interests of the building. On completion the Car park will be resurfaced, fenced for security, and a new CCTV system installed. Dave and Paul are hopeful that the project will be completed this year.
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Action on Dementia
Presenting the cheque
“Dementia is a condition which can affect anyone, regardless of background, education, lifestyle or status”
Impact Family Services
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Registered Charity ‘Impact Family Services,’ based in South Shields, applied to the Freemasons of the Province of Durham for a Community Support Grant to assist with funding to replace outdated IT equipment, enabling those working for the Charity to maintain an efficient service. The Charity provides confidential and non-judgemental advice, in a safe place, to women over 16 on domestic abuse issues. It has professional contact with other relevant organisations and offers ‘A Place for You’ counselling service in conjunction with weekly support groups, which give clients the opportunity to meet survivors of domestic abuse and make new friends.
On Tuesday 26th March 2019, Assistant Provincial Grand Master John Thompson met up with the group Action on Dementia Sunderland (ADS), at one of their weekly lunch club meetings, this one held at the Chester’s Pub in Sunderland. John was armed with a cheque for £5000 awarded to ADS by the Masonic Charitable Foundation, to assist in their valuable work in helping to support people with dementia, and their carers, specifically within the boundaries of Sunderland. The establishment of the group in 2010, after a public meeting, was felt to be necessary because the national organisation was disbanding its Sunderland branch, leaving the area short of the help felt to be needed. As an independent charity 100% of all
The organisation is the only one of its type in the North and potentially the UK. It offers support to every member of the family in times of separation and divorce, domestic violence and abuse, and to young people affected by relationship breakdown.
monies raised are used directly in the assistance and care for sufferers and their carers. Local freemasons are heavily involved within the group, giving of their time and effort in the organisation of weekly lunch meetings, outings on a monthly basis and three ‘Memory Cafes’ across the City. Help is also supported within the Sunderland Royal Hospital. Dementia is a condition which can affect anyone, regardless of background, education, lifestyle or status. While it is true that most people with dementia are over 65, it is not normally a part of getting older. The likelihood of developing dementia rises with age, but it is not a given that an older person will develop it. In the UK 40,000 people under the age of 65 are known to have dementia.
Services are aimed at men, women and children, as individuals or as a family, offering support and guidance through difficult times. Nikki Turnbull, Chief Executive Officer of the Charity was delighted to receive the Grant of £500 from Kevin Carter, representing the Freemasons of the Province of Durham.
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Light Blues Events Start With A Bang The 3rd of June saw the Durham Light Blues start their social events with a bang. Almost 60 Light Blues from between the Tees and the Tyne, along with some members of other Provinces who work and visit Lodges within the Province of Durham, congregated in Wingate to try their hand at Clay Pigeon Shooting. Their experience with Clay Shooting ranged from well-seasoned to having never held a firearm before, but all had a had a brilliant time. Allowing Shotgun Barrel’s to cool down, they then departed the shooting ground with zeal towards a welcome warming curry. This provided the members the opportunity to socialise without the need of hearing protection. Several of the group enjoyed the event so much that they are looking persue their interest in the sport within their own areas. The DLB would like to thank Dave Martin for the organisation and his hard work on the night.
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“A fantastic night was enjoyed by all finished off at a local hostelry with a Pint and Curry” 19
The Great Glen Canoe Challenge Between 24th and 28th May 2019, Brethren from the Lodge of Progress No. 8259 navigated the Great Glen, within the Province of Inverness-shire, in support of the 2021 Festival, taking in the majesty of the Caledonian Canal, Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, and the mighty Loch Ness, a total distance of 96km.
“It must be the first event where I’ve returned heavier than I started; the conditions were challenging”
Just to be different, and always up for a challenge, this was achieved using Canadian open canoes, over four wet and windy days. The team consisted of Don Mackenzie, David Frew, Malcom Lynn, Stephen McLaughlin and Ronnie Fraser. Ground support was supplied by David Mason, ably assisted by his wife Heather, and Steven Taylor, without whose combined efforts the team could not have achieved their aim. Ronnie stated “It must be the first event where I’ve returned
heavier than I started; the conditions were challenging, but comfort and brotherly love were extended to us at every twist and turn by our Scottish Brethren. Special thanks go to Ian Campbell Elliott and all the brethren at Lodge Lochiel 1200 in particular, who provided shelter on our first night in the Highlands”. “It was a lovely touch to be welcomed onto the Caledonian Canal by the Provincial Grand Master of Invernessshire David Crilley; at one point I thought he was going to get into one of the boats.
I suspect he wanted to, having been a keen canoeist in his youth and he was able to give us some sound advice (Turn around now)”. Next year’s challenge has already been discussed over a few drams and the seeds have been sown for another canoeing adventure in support of this fantastic Festival. Finally, we wish to thank our medical support team, consisting of Dr William Horsley and his son Caden, along with Dr Neil Gammack.
The deadline for issue 35 is 31st July 2019. NEWS@NEWS.PGLDURHAM.ORG Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham, 8 The Esplanade, Sunderland, SR2 7BH. T: 0191 5675365. www.durhamfreemasons.org