Gazette-18 by Durham Freemasons

published by the freemasons of the province of durham

ISSUE 18 – SPRING 2015

‘SPRING IS THE TIME OF PLANS AND PROJECTS’

WHAT’S INSIDE Master Chef Meets Master Mason Page 4

A Well Brave Souls Earned Rest Remembered Page 5 THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE Page 8- ISSUE 18

Many Rivers to Cross Page 10-111 SPRING 2015

EDITOR’S NOTES

WHAT’S INSIDE

6 7

As the famous Russian author Leo Tolstoy quoted “Spring is the time for plans and projects” and here in the Province of Durham we are no exception to the rule. The Provincial Executive is working as hard as ever to fine tune its Membership Strategy Plan to build solid foundations that will support Freemasonry in this Province long into the future. The Festival Director, John Thompson, and his team are working flat out to be ready to launch with a bang early next year. Our new Provincial Mentor, Norman Alderson, and his team are beavering away with preparations for the rebooted Mentoring Scheme. A brand-new Chair for Durham Benevolence sees John Watts and the committee continue the excellent work carried out by our charitable side. The Communications Team have successfully launched the Provincial Facebook page and are now planning a revamp of the website and, at the same time,

they are always on the lookout for a story for this publication and the Provincial Website. Of course, lodges and their members, too, are playing their part in keeping our meetings fun, interesting and enjoyable.

This issue sees our giving side stretch from Sunderland to Kenya with monetary donations and physical support; we see rivers crossed, mountains climbed, Grand Rank conferred, we cook on gas and celebrate 125 years. Please continue to support our team by submitting your stories and pictures to news@news.pgldurham.org. Follow us on Twitter @PGLDurham or like our Facebook page and get involved! You never know….you might even have a little fun along the way!

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! @PGLDurham

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COOKING ON GAS! Dave Dorward, on behalf of Durham Benevolence, visited the 39th St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ashbrooke Scout Group to present them with some much-needed funding to support their outdoor activities.

The Troop posing for a group picture

Dave Dorward presenting the cheque As it was their weekly meeting, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Venture Scouts and numerous Scout Leaders were in attendance when Dave, made his visit. The group Treasurer, Louise Simmons, who had recently taken over that role, found that they were in need of funds for new camping equipment; in particular, new camp cookers that were beyond their budget. With

this in mind, Louise decided to write to Durham Benevolence and see if there was any chance of a helping hand. Luckily her plea did not fall on deaf ears and her efforts resulted in a grant of ÂŁ600. At the presentation, it was explained to David that the money from Durham Benevolence was to go towards buying new, modern day,

safe camp cookers, which were to replace the ailing old gas stoves, and were to be used for the four organised camps they take the group on each year.

strong membership, with regular intakes of new members of all ages. The group is dependent upon subscriptions paid by the parents but, like most things today, it proves more and more expensive to fund their camps and activities. So funds from Durham Benevolence have once more provided a lifeline for the organisation.

After the presentation, activities continued with games, knot tying, archery and the challenge of putting up a tent blindfolded. This Scout group boasts a very

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

MASTER CHEF MEETS MASTER MASON

Ross and Gareth at the Festive Board

Gareth in his natural habitat

Many lodges have a fine tradition of welcoming others of an existing memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family into their ranks. For hundreds of years, it has not been uncommon for fathers to introduce their sons into Freemasonry. Indeed, it is common to see uncles and nephews, cousins, grandparents and grandsons and brothers propose their kin into their respective lodges. This certainly was the case at Ravensworth Lodge in Gateshead recently, when their Junior Deacon, Ross Kyle, had the honour of assisting his brother, Gareth, in taking his first step as a Mason. Now, you will be forgiven if you are wondering if you have seen Gareth before. You may in fact recognise Gareth from the television! Yes, Gareth was the winner of the live section of the popular television series,

Gareth posing with members of the NEC

was his first time performing his Junior Deacon role with a candidate and it was obvious, by the relaxed but highly professional manner in which he carried out his duties, that the work and effort he had taken to ensure his brother enjoyed his night had been wellplanned and worthwhile.

Master Chef Live, in which he was successful in seeing off all the competition and taking the esteemed title at the Birmingham NEC in 2012. He has also recently been seen on one of Digital TVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest channels, Made in Tyne and Wear, and his successes in his chosen career as a chef are gaining him many fans and supporters. Gareth was totally self taught and began cooking when he was 12 years old. His dishes are all his own and compiled from his own imagination. He has recently taken residence at Beamish Golf Club, where he is responsible for the kitchen and all the events hosted there.

Also present were over 20 members of the North East Corner. The NEC is an initiative of a group of Durham Masons who all share the same goal: to promote and encourage Freemasonry and to support newer members. This was certainly evident after the ceremony, when the happy and jovial atmosphere was enjoyed by all present. When asked what made him decide to join Freemasonry, Gareth explained that he had seen just how much his brother Ross had flourished

The evening of his Initiation into Ravensworth Lodge was a very special moment for Ross, as he was not only responsible for conducting Gareth around, but was also his proposer. This

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over the few years since joining in 2012. And, by seeing just how much his brother was enjoying himself, he could not wait to join. Gareth was quick to become the newest member of the NEC and is looking forward to taking part in the many exciting events that are planned for the coming year. He was first introduced to the North East Corner in December 2014, when he graced the NEC by providing a delightful dining experience as part of their Christmas Social event held at Saltwell Towers in Saltwell Park, Gateshead. Ross and Gareth are looking forward to spending many happy years together in Freemasonry, and Ravensworth Lodge can look forward to seeing them progress within the lodge side by side. Well done to the Brothers Kyle; enjoy your Freemasonry.

A WELL EARNED REST 1964 was a busy year; it saw ‘Top of the Pops’ first aired on BBC TV; the classic ‘Zulu’ motion picture was first seen at the cinema; the ‘Sun’ newspaper entered circulation, replacing the ‘Daily Herald’; the Beatles first film, ‘Hard Day’s Night’, was released; ‘Match of the Day’ was first aired on BBC2 and Donald Campbell set the world speed record on water at 276.33 mph.

1964 also saw Frank Jefferson agree to take over the role of Treasurer in Penshaw Royal Arch Chapter. Nothing unusual about that, we hear you say. Well, not until we explain that he has just handed over the office at Penshaw’s recent Installation meeting in 2015, some 51 years later! Frank was initiated into Penshaw Lodge in 1961 and was swiftly exalted into the Royal Arch Chapter attached

to Penshaw in 1962. Although never attaining the chair in either Degree, there can be no doubt that Frank has played his part in the history books of Freemasonry in Penshaw. Enjoy your well-earned rest, Frank, and let your successor, Past Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals and young whippersnapper in comparison, Thomas Edward Bradley, do his share. Two meetings down and only 304 to go, Tom.

Frank looking back over his 51 years

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ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

FIVE IS THE

MAGIC NUMBER!

Kevin presenting the Installation Representative, Nigel Foster with a gift from the Lodge

Harte Lodge, who meet at Raby Road in Hartlepool, enjoyed a double celebration at their recent Installation meeting, when Kevin Dixon, a staunch member for 27 years, became master of the lodge for the fifth (and possibly final?) time! Throughout his masonic career, Kevin has always been willing and able to lend a hand and be involved in the various offices of the lodge, supporting masters present and past.

Kevin in the Chair for the 5th time

At his recent installation on 19th January, 2015, John Winter, his proposer, spoke

ROLL OF HONOUR

Rowlandson No3360 Nautilus No4259 Beaconsfield No7768 Perseverance No1643

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This was followed by a period

Thomas Robinson Simmons Alan Greenfield Robert William Oxley Samuel Moore Shaun Murray George Hartley De Goldthorpe Hanson William Mitchenson Surtees John Graham Jeffery Reginald Tallentire James Brian Donnelly Ian Burnell Denis Wright Bryan Scott

60-Year Certificates:

He started his working life with the NCB in the wages department and, following the demise of the mining industry, he became a regional finance manager with British Coal Enterprises.

with Cleveland Police as a management accountant, where he developed a friendship with the Installing master, Phil Chaffer, and they began sharing their masonic interests. This was instrumental in Phil joining Harte Lodge. Kevin, aged 62, is now enjoying his well-earned retirement working at his allotment, where he has recently started bee-keeping. He also plays bridge and enjoys historical travel , often taking his daughter, who shares this historical wanderlust, to visit Uzbekistan, China and Iceland.

50-Year Certificates (Craft):

Presentations of certificates to mark long service to Freemasonry were made to the following Brethren:

William Carr Edgar Thompson Rutter Alistair Ross John Vincent Spencer

of Kevin’s dedication and loyalty to Harte Lodge. He also referred to ‘déjà vu’ and the ‘groundhog day’ effect of his being trapped in a time loop! Kevin is described as a five star mason as well as a five star master, after being initiated in 1988 and being made master in 1999, 2005, 2008 and 2009.

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Beacon 6891 St Catherine’s 5393 Fellowship 9694 Tyne Dock 4218 Coronation 2929 Minerva 3385 Washington 4346 Conside 7179 Aclet 5880 Rowland Burdon 3960 Justice 8361 Fenwick 1389 Phoenix 94

KENYAN SUPPORT FROM NAUTILUS Land of the Mackem

Add Dinner Nanny to the list of trades

The classrooms are a little different from Wearside Sunderland Freemasons, Martin Telfer and Gavin Leng, have travelled to Naivasha in Kenya to support the local children with some much needed aid. The two Nautilus Lodge members were joined by family and friends when they visited Karai Nursery and Primary Schools, as well as the local hospital. They were there to distribute clothes and toys, which had been kindly donated by the people of the Sunderland area and sent over in a container. Their African adventure started with a visit to the local football club academy, Sunderland AFC Keroche. Martin and Gavin are part of a group of Sunderland supporters and local businessmen who sponsor the Kenyan team. This has enabled the team to improve

The players chipping in

their facilities and, as part of the sponsorship agreement, the football team must work closely with the local community and do what they can to help. They were joined by Sunderland FA Cup winner, Mickey Horswill, to help at a coaching session for the local kids. The next day, they visited the local primary school. There, as well as handing out clothes and toys, they cooked a casserole for all 600 children. The childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s usual diet consisted of just a small bowl of maize, so a beef stew was a gourmet meal to them. It was discovered that some of the children had never eaten meat before and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what a carrot was. As well as beef stew with vegetables and rice, each child received a pack of vitamin biscuits and some orange juice.

Preparing dinner Their next stop, after spending some time at the school, was at the local hospital to visit the sick children. There they handed out bottles, blankets, clothes and toys, etc. Afterwards, they visited some of the poorest families in the village, where they dropped off some clothing, blankets and mattresses.

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The recipients were clearly overjoyed with the gifts, the evidence being in their smiles. After an emotional time visiting the local schools and hospital, the group relaxed with a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, with time to reflect on on a moving and eye opening experience.

ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

The Master of Stranton, Mavin Macauley making the presentation

BRAVE SOULS REMEMBERED On December 13th 2014, to commemorate their association with the Heugh Battery, the Master of Stranton Lodge, in Hartlepool, Mavin Macauley, along with Richard Turner and brethren of the lodge, presented John Southcott, the chairman of the Heugh Battery Museum with a photographic print of the welded steel sculpture of “Tommy”, a WW1 Soldier, erected adjacent to the War Memorial at Seaham.

was defended and that morning saw the town’s guns engage in a fierce naval battle. Unable to face the full British fleet in battle, the Imperial German Navy had decided to carry out a raid that would draw a smaller number of British battleships into an ambush in the North Sea. The German battle cruisers were only two-anda-half miles off the coast when they opened fire on the town, with devastating effect.

Richard Turner first read out, then presented to John Southcott, a poem written by Mr Albert Armstrong, a resident of Hartlepool and former major in the Territorial Army, which was then also presented to John Southcott.

During that battle, the Heugh Battery guns fired over 100 shells at the attacking warships and was the only British mainland battery to participate in a full scale naval engagement in either of the world wars.

In his acceptance speech, John said that the print and poem would find pride of place in the museum, as it was at the Headland in Hartlepool, that the first soldiers were killed by enemy action in the Great War. It was in the early hours of December 16th 1914, that three German battle cruisers shelled the towns of Hartlepool, Scarborough and Whitby. Only Hartlepool

The first shots landed close to the Heugh Battery, killing 29-yearold Private Theophilus Jones of the 18th Battalion, Durham Light Infantry, and three of his comrades in arms.

Tommy as he sits in Seaham by the next shell, which also hit the telephone line between the two batteries, the Commander then having to try to relay orders by megaphone. Due to the noise, this method proved impossible, so a man was sent to stand between the command post and the battery to relay orders by word of mouth. In all, the two towns of Hartlepool and West Hartlepool were hit by over 1,200 shells, during which 136 people were killed, sharing the dubious distinction of being the first military and civilian casualties on British soil. These included 114 civilians, among them 37 children, 9 British soldiers, 4 sailors and 9 German seamen. Several awards were made; in particular the first pair of the new Military Medal, which went to the Hartlepool gunners. In 2000, a group of local people, including members of Stranton Lodge, decided to tidy up the derelict remains of the Heugh Battery, which by then was all that remained of the only First World War battlefield on the British mainland.

Private Jones became known as the first soldier to be killed on English soil during the First World War. Two more soldiers were killed

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Now, thanks to grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund and countless hours of volunteer work, it has become a fully accredited museum and receives everincreasing numbers of visitors from home and abroad. The Battery has a long masonic tradition, with strong ties to local Freemasons’ lodges. The Founding Master of Stranton Lodge, Lt. Col. J.W. Cameron was the second Commanding Officer of the battery. The Commanding Officer at the time of the Bombardment, Col. L. E. Robson, was a Master of Harbour of Refuge Lodge, No. 764. Over the intervening years, many other officers and gunners became members of local masonic lodges. That tradition continues, with Freemasons being very involved in the continuing restoration and preservation work. Joe Foster, a member of Stranton Lodge, and a director of the Heugh Battery Museum did not know which hat to wear during the presentation whether he was part of the giving or receiving!

KILIMANJARO

OR BUST Mark Bradbury, a Master Mason of St Cuthbert Lodge, which meets in Darlington, along with a number of others, recently completed a lifelong ambition by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. A total of £150,000 was raised for the Alzheimer’s disease charity and the whole trek took two weeks, with walking days lasting up to 20 hours. Many of the readers of The Gazette will have their own personal reasons for raising funds for charity and will be interested to hear of such a worthy and testing effort. Mount Kilimanjaro, would be the venue and focus for such activity. The Alzheimer’s Society, having organised the trek to the ‘Roof of Africa’, would benefit from the team’s efforts and monies raised would assist the Society with the provision of valuable

support to those suffering with dementia across the UK. Having subscribed to the challenge in early 2014, the hard work of raising a minimum of £4,200 commenced. Cake sales were organised at village fetes, raffles and car boot sales all contributed, along with the kindness of family, friends and colleagues who generously sponsored his attempt. So, after twelve months of hard work on fundraising and passing his target, it seemed that the goal had been achieved. He set off for Africa in January 2015, with expectations of what was to follow and an enormous sense of achievement. The memories of the adventure that was to follow would no doubt stay with him for the rest of his life. On arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, the

Mark with another tracker proudly at the summit distant and a vertical mile in height. In order to gain the summit, the start would be late in the day and they would have to walk in the dark, enduring subzero conditions, experiencing increased hypoxia and no sleep.

team was briefed and kit was packed and repacked. Having experience of high altitude mountaineering prepared Mark for the pain to follow, others were less aware, so Mark helped calm nerves within the team where possible. Machame Gate to the summit of Uhuru Peak, at 5898m, was six days away and, with each camp at a higher elevation, this would drain both energy and resolve, if allowed. The team quickly gelled together and worked hard to stay incredibly cohesive; with trekking at altitude proving no easy feat; with thin air being well known to distort body and brain and with less oxygen fuelling both physical and mental undertakings. The group all climbed further and further and on arrival at Barafu Camp, at 4600m, were informed that the summit attempt was over six miles

Without complaint, all 25 trekkers set off from camp for the summit of Kilimanjaro, safe in the knowledge that their combined efforts had raised in excess of the target of £150,000. At 8.00am the following day, having gained the summit of Africa’s highest mountain, there was only one way to go - down! Mark will carry the memories of Kilimanjaro with him forever, with the one enduring memory of the trip being the spirit of humanity and friendship that was generated amongst the team and the local guides. And all in the name of such a worthy cause.

Above the clouds Mark at one of the basecamps

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ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

MANY RIVERS TO CROSS A recent link has been formed with a lodge in Stockton-on-Tees and the River Lodges Association. When making enquiries, many people had not heard of the Association, so we caught up with Peter Kipps, President of the RLA, and he told us all about this fantastic association.

1 “The River Lodges Association was formally launched on the 26th September 2010, a day chosen for its significance, being the last Sunday in September, which is designated as ‘World Rivers’ day. The Association was formed by 12 Lodges, operating under the authority of the United Grand Lodge of England but, of course, the story does not actually start there. It was many months earlier that discussions in Ravensbourne Lodge, in London, turned to ways of supporting the lodge whilst it was trying to build itself up and enhance the Masonic experience of its members. The idea grew of forming an association to link lodges like Ravensbourne, named after or connected to rivers, so that the connection by occupation or pleasure interests of its members would form a common interest. The aim of the Association is to encourage inter-visiting and increase our fraternal friendships”.

“By the end of 2015, I would like to see us with a membership of Ok, so what happened next?

How did it develop? “Finding like-minded Freemasons of ‘river lodges’ was not to prove an easy task. We needed a reasonable number of lodges to make it viable and, for a number who were approached, the time was not right. So it took two years to find and gain the support of those Founding Lodges”.

“Within a month of our establishment, we welcomed our first joining member and others have continued to follow. Our attention soon turned to the opportunities of linking up regular lodges from other constitutions. One difficulty, of course, is identifying a suitably named lodge within another Constitution and then seeking permission to approach that lodge. The protocol is that our Grand Lodge should enter into communication with the other Grand Lodge, seeking permission for us to enter into dialogue direct with their lodge. However, it has not been as daunting as it sounds, due to the use of electronic communications, and we quickly obtained permission to enter into communication with lodges from across the globe.

How was it received at the highest levels? “We had already gained the blessings of both Metropolitan Grand Lodge and the United Grand Lodge of England for our proposals. Our logo was designed by a member of Westbourne Lodge, who also got our first web page up and running”.

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50 lodges.” One of the key decisions in our early days was that opportunities should be taken to promote the RLA, not only within member lodges by encouraging them to carry membership details on their summonses, but also to the wider fraternity. As well as having a web page - river-lodges.org.uk - which has had its first refresh, we also have our own twitter account @riverlodges, which now has over 1250 followers, with 10 of our member lodges also having a presence. It is still early days for this form of social media but clearly one such a young association can play an equal part in and raise its profile within the greater masonic family”.

3 4

2 5

6 So how do lodges get involved at a local level? “We encourage our member lodges, via the Lodge RLA representative, to give a RLA report at their meetings, be it just which lodges are meeting and where, so notification is given to brethren before their next meeting, or to give an update on any activities or details of new members.

Brook Lodge No 8137, has handed in its Warrant. Possibly the RLA was formed just a little too late to give any assistance to them”.

And to the future?

How many lodges are signed up?

“Interest is steadily growing with the members of individual lodges in making visits and also for the RLA to investigate wider activities. We have already held three ‘open’ social events in London, which have attracted both Freemasons and non-freemasons to meet up for a social evening. We are keen to promote the social events of member lodges, as well as their regular meetings, which could offer the opportunity of smaller lodges, unable to run their own Ladies Festival, to enjoy those benefits together with a lodge with a greater membership.

“We now number 46 members in the Association. Sadly, one of our Founding members, Beverly

By the end of 2015, I would like to see us with a membership of 50 lodges. An increasing

Through the efforts of a member of Coquetdale Lodge, our logo can now be found on lapel pins, tie clips and cufflinks, available to any of the members of RLA lodges to wear. There are even a few tea mugs around”.

membership will give our individual members greater opportunity to make visits. I would like to see our membership extended abroad even further and one member has offered up the suggestion of establishing a register of masonic boat owners; if they are not in an RLA lodge, then possibly establishing an Associate Membership. However that is something that, as an Association, we have yet to discuss.

sure, continue to be pivotal to our future.

Our core purpose will remain the encouragement of inter-visiting between member lodges but, if there is an interest in developing additional areas, which have as their basis the promotion of fraternal ties and providing a masonic support network, then we will certainly consider them.

Lodges with a River connection can get more information from the RLA website

We have, during the last 4 years, achieved a great deal by the efforts of a few keen Freemasons. The individual Lodge RLA representatives play a key part in our progress and will, I am

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We are still at the very early stages of establishment and it will be many years before we can claim a true and sustainable success. We are, of course, only the sum of our parts; our individual lodges to whom we owe our loyalty and the Association is only in existence to assist and support them and their members”.

Think you know your rivers? Try naming all six featured in this article and send your answers to news@news.pgldurham.org to be crowned the ‘Provincial Grand River Know it All’.

ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

GRAND CHARITY PROVIDE

HOSPICE BOOST The Deputy Provincial Grand Master, John Arthur, along with John Webster, the then chairman of Durham Benevolence, visited St. Cuthbert’s Hospice in Durham, on Friday 23rd January. Also in attendance were Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, John Watts and Craig Steele, members of the Durham Benevolence General Purposes Committee, and representatives of five other hospices from around the Province which also receive support.

Representative from the hospices with John Webster The reason for the gathering was to present the six hospices within our Province with a donation towards their operating costs, on behalf of the Freemasons’ Grand Charity. St Cuthbert’s provides specialist palliative care to patients in a very warm and welcoming centre, designed to meet the immediate and future care needs of people with a life-limiting illness and to assist them to live a rich, high quality life in a peaceful and rural setting. They also provide support in the community and to patients’ families. Staff and workers have the clear aim of helping to extend and improve the quality of life. It is also one of the few national centres able to support patients with complex illnesses. Care is provided in a supportive and therapeutic environment. At present, there are 13 single-occupancy, en-suite inpatient rooms and it is hoped to extend this facility to 15. It has a permanent staff

our Grand Charity had donated approximately £11 million since 1984 to the Hospice Movement in the UK and this was to continue into the foreseeable future. It was also noted that many individual lodges also made donations in their own right.

of approximately 65 and an enthusiastic and dedicated team of 350 volunteers. St Cuthbert’s has provided specialist palliative care to the people of Durham and the surrounding area since 1988 when the original building was purchased outright by local companies. It requires approximately 60% of its funding of £2.5 million to be raised by charitable donations and is supported by a very able team of fundraisers and volunteers. The visiting party was given a tour of the complex and facilities, which include private and family rooms, meeting and counselling rooms, a coffee shop and a new dining room.

Cheques were presented to Butterwick Hospice, represented by Laura Dowthwaite; Hartlepool and District Hospice, represented by Anne Gladwin; Dr Martin Walker of St. Benedict’s Hospice; Sonia Graham of St Clare’s Hospice; John Stabler of St Teresa’s Hospice and, finally, to Paul Marriott, Chief Executive of St Cuthbert’s Hospice. All representatives gave a short response of thanks and briefly outlined the work of their respective centres. An exceedingly worthy use of our charitable funds and yet another reason why it is extremely satisfying to be part of freemasonry.

On completion of the tour, the party returned to the meeting room for the presentation of cheques. John Webster, Chairman of Durham Benevolence, took the floor and explained that

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ANAGRAM TIME Here are a few masonic anagrams to keep the grey matter working. If you can get them all why not email your answers to news@news. pgldurham.org good luck and many thanks to Alan Errington of Benfeldsyde Lodge in Blackhill for the submission.

1. nnttiiiioa 2. truevi 3. meetgory 4. erqasu 5. whopfilsur 6. cciiittfare 7. thincorain 8. charttice 9. pelmet 10. stream 11. lgeav

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WARRIORS IN FIRE BOOTS In the last of our trio of books authored by people within our Province, we turn our attention to Arthur Lockyear, MBE. Arthur, of Norman Lodge which meets in Durham, is the author of recently published ‘Warriors in Fire Boots – A tribute to the valour of firefighters’, which traces a history of fire service gallantry and deaths in service from the mid-nineteenth century to more recent times.

As well as covering the part played by many individual fire fighters during the Blitz over London, Clydebank, Liverpool, Birmingham, Belfast and South Wales, it includes the tragic deaths of 19 firemen and Salvage Corps workers at Cheapside Street, Glasgow in 1960 and the subsequent award of the George Medal to Brother James McMurray Dunlop. Mention is also made of the outstanding gallantry of Brother Harry Errington, the first fireman to be awarded the George Cross, and George Medalists: Chief Fire Officer, Brother Thomas Bruce of Sunderland; Chief Fire Officer, Brother Ernest Herbert Harmer of Blackpool fire brigade; Station

Officer, Brother Larry Young of Newcastle and Gateshead fire service; and Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Brother William Tilley Elmslie, who was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his part in the Dunkirk evacuation. Respectful mention is also given to many police officers and others who have given their best and most courageous endeavours to save life from fire, including the story of Sergeant Robert Little of Durham County Constabulary, who lost his life attempting the rescue of an elderly woman in a serious house fire in Seaham Harbour in

The officer in the centre is Brother Ernest Harmer at Buckingham Palace to receive his George Medal from His Majesty King George VI

December, 1930, for which he was posthumously awarded the King’s Police Medal. The book, like the others featured in previous Gazettes, is readily available from Amazon and other reputable retail outlets.

Bro Harry Errington GC, a member of Samson Lodge 1668 and Lodge of Fraternal Unity 7330

Brave firemen working in the most dangerous of conditions

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ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

NEVER A CROSSWORD! Across 1. Miss Dingle has a kind heart (7) 2. The second step on the mystical ladder (4) 3. You almost travel westwards to be served your order (8) 7. Take a copy of this ancient tressle (7) 9. Does this Masonic son solve the puzzle or was it Morse? (5) 11. Add one on to this Chester le Street Lodge to move on (11) 12. Is this the norm for this history subject? (11) 14. The man makes it halfway to the pinnacle (11) 16. Sounds like they have guided you to the summit (6) 17. You see them as a matter of importance (8) 19. One above the Pro is the Boss (11) 22. The only tiled room outside the Lodge perhaps (8) 23. The third success at Universities Lodge maybe? (6) 24. Sounds like you have a mark on your muscles, keep away! (7) Down 1. It sounds like you may be tired of smiling, eat up! (11) 3. Sounds like Mr Grundy has no end to his promise (6) 4. Add a bit to the paint to get this working (9) 5. The Senior Warden is represented by this feat of power (8) 6. Would you like fries with that order? (4) 8. Sounds like John is nearly 50% there (6) 10. He may boss how he spreads his butter in the morning (11) 13. These jewels are not going anywhere (9) 15. Ed diets but get mixed up in his search for comfort (7) 18. After a shot of JD this is electrifying (5) 20. Mr Twain is in another order (4) 21. Ray is confused with keeping things close to his chest (9) 25. Intruders rearrange their loots and bend to this (5)

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CAPTION COMPETITION

TH N O M S I H T

£25 of M&S Vouchers for the winner Thanks again for your suggestions for last months caption of Assistant Provincial Grand Master, John Watts with Miss Junior South Tyneside at the K.A.Y.A.K cheque presentation. Congratulations to Ron Dodds of Doric Lodge in Spennymoor for giving us:

TH LAST MON

This months competition features Ian Macpherson a Fellowcraft from Caradoc Lodge in Castle Eden dressed as a pretty scary Easter Bunny as he helped out at the magnificent Durham Easter Egg Run, hop to it and win those vouchers

winner - Ron Dodds of Doric Lodge in Spennymoor

“So That’s what the secrets and mysteries of the order are!” 14

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£25 of M&S Vouchers for the winner news@news.pgldurham.org

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FOUR WORTHY CAUSES AND A NEW CHAIR

Four Worthy Causes - Representatives from the four charities after the presentation

Saturday 14th March, saw the Annual General Meeting of Durham Benevolence take place at Shiney Row Masonic Hall and, as usual, the lodge room was packed with eager Benevolent Representatives, representing their various lodges.

of four worthy charities in to the meeting. John then presented these charities with cheques totalling £5,000 and, after each presentation, the recipient spoke for a few minutes, explaining the good work carried out by their respective organisations.

After the meeting was opened, the retiring Chairman, John Lockhart Webster, took the opportunity to thank everyone who had helped him in his many years’ service to Durham Benevolence, before relinquishing the chair to the Provincial Grand Master, Norman Eric Heaviside, who was presiding on official business for the first time since undergoing surgery back in February.

First up was Phillip Ward Sanderson, official Ambassador for Bright Red, East and West, who spoke about the vital research being carried out in their fight to beat blood cancer. This charity operates from the Scottish Borders to North Yorks and is committed to improving the lives and treatment of patients in the North through care, research and education in the fight against Leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Phillip thanked DBL for their kind donation and pledged that the money would be put to great use.

It was with great pleasure that Eric Heaviside announced that the new Chairman would be John David Watts, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, and it was with obvious delight that John took the chair. It is well known throughout the Province that Durham Benevolence holds a special place in John’s heart, having served it in various capacities for two decades. With the Vice Chairman, Craig Steele, and the rest of the team appointed, the agenda was attended to in the normal sleek and professional manner associated with these meetings. John Webster then retired from the room to escort representatives

Next to be presented with a cheque was Rebecca Scott, Community Fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society. Rebecca explained that the Society was a membership organisation working to improve the life of people with dementia. With currently 20,000 members, the Society provides day care and home care, support to families, outings, telephone and online advice service, as well as a national helpline. In 2015, there will be 850,000 people with dementia in the UK and the DBL

donation will help towards training for carers, improving quality of life and raising awareness, as well as lobbying for improved rights for sufferers. The third representative was Deborah Marshall, the North East Co-ordinator of Circles, a subsidiary of Barnardo’s. A Circle is a small group of trained volunteers recruited from the community. These groups work towards making sure sex offenders living in the community are motivated to lead an offencefree lifestyle. Circles are set up at the request of the Public Protection Agencies, to help an offender who wants to stop and works alongside others such as family members, the police and the Probation Service.

All four representatives spoke extremely well to promote their respective organisations and this made the fact that we, as a fraternity, had been able to contribute to the work that they carry out, all the more special. After the meeting had been closed, the guest speakers, along with everyone present, retired to the bar area, where a splendid buffet and light refreshments had been supplied. A big thank-you to Shiney Row masonic hall for being fantastic hosts and to Les Dean for looking after the sound equipment as usual.

Last but certainly not least, was Holly Jenkins, North East Regional Fundraiser for Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity. Rainbow Trust supports over 25% of the 6,000 families in England with a child suffering from a life-threatening or terminal illness. Holly was keen to stress that the charity supports the whole family 24/7, 365 days of the year, regardless of the diagnosis, with home support, emotional and physical respite, cooked meals, bath-time and stories, maintaining school attendance, arts and crafts, day trips and, ultimately, bereavement support.

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

GRAND RANK CONFERRED

Some of the recipients gathered at Provincial Office back in March

Wednesday 29th April and Thursday 30th saw the Annual Investiture Meetings of the United Grand Lodge of England and Supreme Grand Chapter respectively. As usual there were a large number of Durham brethren at both meetings representing our Province and supporting our brethren present to be appointed to Grand Rank as a just reward for their tremendous service in both Craft and Royal Arch Masonry. Receiving Craft First Appointments were: Stephen William Walker, Castle Lodge No6713 Simon Craig Steele, Vedra Lodge No3137 Norman Alderson, Johnstonian Lodge No9301 Mike Davis, Lodge of Harmony No4224 Derek Dunn, St George’s Lodge No6437 Michael Graham, Palmer Lodge No9255 John Paul Thompson, Harte Lodge No4217

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Promotions: John Arthur – Heugh Lodge No7773 James Frederick Forster – Surtees Lodge No4593 Andrew Peter Fall Foster – St Cuthbert Lodge No3417 Albert Henry Norman – St Bede Lodge No1119

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Want to keep up to date with everything that is happening within our Province and beyond as it happens?

Receiving Royal Arch First Appointments were: Gordon Brewis, Moseley Chapter No3105

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Ian Charles Knighting, Chapter of Industry No48

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Michael Stuart Shaw, Tees Chapter No509

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Well now you can with the launch of our very own Facebook page. Search for ‘The Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham’ and hit the ‘like’ button and you will automatically be alerted when new articles are live on the Provincial website, be able to share photographs from various events, scroll back through our timeline for historic events and much more. Don’t be the last to know, join our online community today!

Promotions: Michael Graham Donne, City Chapter No3568

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COMMUNICATIONS TEAM LOOK AT SOME OF THE HIDDEN WORK OF THE PROVINCE. Every year a Provincial Year Book is produced for use of the Freemasons of Durham. This book is the most comprehensive reference book detailing information about Freemasonry throughout the Province of Durham. Many readers enjoy receiving and using this book as their personal reference manual.

directed the Durham Provincial Grand Stewards’ Lodge to look at it. A final design proposal was presented to the Provincial Executive and approved. The project team were then given the task of turning the concept into reality. This they did and subsequent revisions have further improved the end product.

What lay behind the idea, compilation and production of this increasingly popular Durham publication? Our Provincial Communications Team visited Provincial Office recently to find out more.

A major advantage of the new format was that it proved more cost effective than the older version and therefore did not run at a financial loss to the Province as previous ones had. Simpler printing processes and improved layouts meant a better-looking product all round which was pleasing to the eye and much more user friendly.

The Provincial Secretary, Phil Rann, who has responsibility for the overall direction of this task, explained that the original small ‘blue’ Year Book had been in existence for many years with the earliest copy in the office being from 1961, in soft cover, and back to 1883 in hard cover. Over time the book had become increasingly unmanageable and difficult to read because of the small print. Another problem was that, as the details of the Province and its many side degrees increased in size, it was not as easy to use. It seemed therefore an appropriate time had arrived (3 years ago) to explore an alternative version, whilst maintaining and improving the tradition, content and presentation of the existing publication. When looking at Year Books from other Provinces, some were deemed to look and ‘feel’ better than our own version and so the Provincial Grand Master

So how does it all come together? Using the Grand Lodge database, the project team set about ensuring that the annual returns from our lodges and chapters are meticulously checked and entered on the system. From Christmas to mid-January, the Year Book team, and staff at Provincial Office, collate submissions from the Central Masonic Charities and prepare other articles for inclusion. The ‘Other Orders’ also submit their own entries. A team of ‘eagle eyed’ proof readers then looks at the rough draft of the new book. Once checked, amended and agreed, the final draft is sent for printing.

Stacey, the real boss of Provincial Office, with her copy of the Year Book

Members of the team showing off their work

The finished product is then delivered to Provincial Office where a further team from the Stewards’ Lodge deals with the distribution to Masonic Halls. There is no doubt that the decision to change to a new format was an unqualified success with the distribution increasing by over 50% since the launch.

So what of the future? The project team is keen to receive feedback from readers on the new format, both on style and content and if any errors are spotted they are keen to correct them! The 2016 Year Book is already in the preparation stage and the team is looking for a suitable postage stamp size picture to adorn the spine of the book, the team is also keen to discover who has the oldest edition of the old style Year Book. Readers can submit their

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

details to the Gazette by way of a photograph. A bottle of whisky will be awarded to the person submitting the winning entry and proof by the deadline of publishing of the next Gazette. We must thank all of those involved in this huge undertaking for their hard work and enthusiasm many of whom have spent many long hours in the winter months over the past three years working on getting this project where it is today. If anyone would like a copy of the 2015 Year Book, please contact Provincial Office where there is a limited stock available.

ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

UNIVERSITIES

CELEBRATE

125 YEARS

Lived respected and died Regretted Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham Allison, Ralph Blakey, Norwood, Ronald, Caer Urfa Lodge No4345 Peace and Unity Lodge No6312 Barnes, Brian, Walker Lodge No1342 Beaumont, Herbert Parry, Doric Lodge No5455

Parker, Edward Gardner, Gateshead Fell Lodge No4349

Bousfield, Leslie, Penshaw Lodge No3194

Prime, Robert, Hugh de Pudsey Lodge No4490

Briggs, James, Windgate Lodge No6767 Burnip, Robert, Lodge of Unity Lodge No6003

Scott, Walter Gordon, Manor Lodge No7908

Pooley, Arthur Edward, Strathmore Lodge No6229

Smith, Alan, St Bede Lodge No1119 Talbot, William, Burrow, Henry, Ryton St Mary’s Lodge No6550 Connaught Lodge No2981 Taylor, Alan Frederick, Chester, Barry, Bede College Lodge No4840 Rowlandson Lodge No3360 Walker, Harry, Chisholm, Leslie, St Nicholas’ Lodge No6814 Castle Lodge No6713 Davison, Derek Hathoway, Willington Lodge No4028 Brethren Brumfitt, Laurence, Dixon, John, Whitworth Lodge No1932 Gyrwy Lodge No6462

The members of the lodge pose in a mix of masonic and university regalia

Carr, William, Dodson, Albert James, Peace and Unity Lodge No6312 Rowlandson Lodge No3360 Gordon, James, English, Ernest Edward, Constance Lodge No2135 Winlaton Lodge No4546 Green, Harry Horton, Fiddes, James Alfred, Vale of Tees Lodge No5016 Tyne Dock Lodge No4218 Forster, Peter Morgan, Tow Law Lodge No3349

Hall, James Lawson, Hadrian Lodge No6772

Lilley, Maurice, Garner, Alan, Coronation Lodge No2929 St Helen’s Lodge No531 Marriott, Robson Vasey, Hardy, Brian Ferguson, Hetton Lyon Lodge No6533 Peace and Unity Lodge No6312 Patterson, Christopher William, Hardy, Ronald, Darlington Lodge No6158 Eden Lodge No8162

Some of the younger members of the lodge chat over a drink It was a special night at Durham Masonic Hall, Old Elvet, on Thursday 19th March, when the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, John Arthur, led a Provincial Deputation To Universities Lodge to help their Worshipful Master, Dr Andrew Ambrose-Thurman, and the Officers and Brethren of the Lodge celebrate it’s 125th Birthday. The meeting was packed with one hundred Brethren, young and old, and many a distinguished visitor, and they were all treated to an account of the lodge’s history, culminating in its recent growth to a membership of almost 80. This is largely due to its enthusiastic participation in United Grand Lodge’s Universities Scheme. The Deputy PGM was presented with a cheque for £2,352, marking

Rae, John Anthony, County Lodge No6678 Ricci, Francesco, Highmoor, George Wilfred, Ryton St Mary’s Lodge No6550 Lodge of Loyalty Lodge No8635 Headley, Harry, Tristram Lodge No2415

the lodge’s number, for the 2021 Festival.

Robinson, John Thomas, Hodgson, William, Constance Lodge No2135 Caradoc Lodge No4749 Rogers, Edward Allon, Hunter, William, Heortnesse Lodge No4639 Phoenix Lodge No94

Next came a presentation of Grand Lodge Certificates to two of the lodge’s latest initiates, who join the 65 other young Masons who have been initiated under the Universities Scheme.

Smith, George, James, David Southam, Lodge of Jurists Lodge No8956 Saltwell Lodge No3000

Over a sumptuous banquet, John Arthur thanked the lodge for its generous donation and paid tribute to its whole-hearted approach to the Universities Scheme over the last decade, noting that 16 of those present had joined the lodge through the scheme – including the current Worshipful Master and three of the Officers. He warmly congratulated Universities on reaching such a major milestone and in such good shape, which, he said, sent a strong positive signal

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Mahony, James, Clarence Lodge No2462

Teasdale, William Robert, Service above Self Lodge No9537

Masters, Ralph Donkin, St George’s Lodge No5720

Wilkinson, Francis, St Aidan Lodge No4080

with regard to its future over the next 125 years, as well as the future of masonry in the Province. The Worshipful Master responded by thanking John, the Deputation, and the array of distinguished visitors for joining Universities brethren for this unique occasion in the lodge’s long history. “It is fitting that, as a Universities

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Scheme lodge in our 125th year, we continue to be successful in welcoming so many young men into the Craft. I hope that 2352 exemplifies all that is best in masonry and as a lodge where younger and more venerable Masons work together with that love and harmony which should at all times characterise freemasonry.”

THE RMBI AND SCARBROUGH COURT Of the four great masonic charities, two are specifically aimed at opposite ends of the human lifetime: the Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys, of which we shall be hearing a great deal as we go into Festival on their behalf, has a remit, â&#x20AC;&#x153;To relieve poverty and advance the education of children of a masonic family and, when funds permit, support other children in needâ&#x20AC;?; whereas the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution, which is the subject of this article, has been caring for older Freemasons and their dependants for over 160 years. The RMBI runs 17 care homes throughout England and Wales and the one which caters principally for Durham, Northumberland and Cumberland and Westmoreland is Scarbrough Court in Cramlington. It is a modern, purpose-built Home and provides both residential and nursing care for brethren and their dependants. It is run to the highest standards and details can be found on the rmbi.org.uk website. The Home is supported by an organisation of Friends, whose

task is to look after the interests of the residents, raise funds for their welfare and social activities and to assist the Home Manager. The Association of Friends of Scarbrough Court is a Registered Charity in its own right, organised on a proper constitutional basis under the authority of the RMBI and consists of a President, traditionally the PGMs of the Provinces of Durham, Northumberland and Cumberland and Westmoreland, who take it in turn on an annual basis to preside. The President during this year is our own Provincial Grand Master, Eric Heaviside, who has always taken a very keen interest in the Home and the Friends. We are then guided by three Patrons who are usually APGMs, again from each of the three Provinces. The Patron from this Province is our Deputy PGM, John Arthur and, during his tenure, he has given both the Home and the Friends valuable help and support. Next, we have the operating committee and this consists of a Chairman, a Vice-Chairman, a Treasurer and a Secretary.

The Chairman at present is Ken Wake and each one serves for around four years. The committee consists of a number of brethren drawn, again, from each of the three Provinces. It has become an enthusiastic and hard-working team and anyone who would like to attend any of the regular Coffee Mornings can be sure of a warm and friendly welcome. Your Charity Steward will have details.

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

The Friends are aware of the continual financial pressures borne by the Provinces and lodges and try not to make unnecessary demands on their generosity. We therefore hope you will be able to support the annual raffle which is currently underway. The proceeds, together with the regular generosity of the three Provinces, really help to enhance the welfare and enjoyment of our members and their dependants in later life.

ISSUE 18

SPRING 2015

DATES FOR THE DIARY 13 MAY

18 MAY

19 MAY

22 MAY

27 MAY

WEDNESDAY 13TH MAY 2015 Finchale Priory Lodge No7509 Full Team Visit

3 JUNE

MONDAY 18TH MAY 2015 King David Lodge No7667 PGM presenting 75-Year Certificate

TUESDAY 19TH MAY 2015 St John & Ashburne Chapter No80 Full Team Visit

FRIDAY 22ND MAY 2015 Trinity Lodge No4751 ProvGM presenting a 50-Year Certificate WEDNESDAY 27TH MAY 2015 Chapter Annual Convocation Rainton Meadows Arena

JUNE

SEPTEMBER

27 JUNE

27 NOVEMBER

Sneak Peek Inside the next Issue:

WEDNESDAY 3RD JUNE 2015 Bewick Lodge No5988 Full Team Visit MONDAY 15TH JUNE 2015 Indaba Chapter No9454 Full Team Visit TUESDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER 2015 Tow Law Chapter No3349 GSupt to present a 50-year Cert SATURDAY 27TH JUNE 2015 Annual Provincial Meeting Lancastrian Suite, Dunston. FRIDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 2015 Annual Promotions Meeting Rainton Meadows Arena.

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• Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge • Provincial Chapter Convocation • Festival Update • Plus all the latest from around the Province Deadline for the next edition is June 30th 2015 news@news.pgldurham.org

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Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham • 8 The Esplanade • Sunderland • SR2 7BH • T: (0191) 5675365 • www.durhamfreemasons.org