Gazette-23 by Durham Freemasons

published by the freemasons of the province of durham

ISSUE 23 – Summer 2016

DON’T FORGET TO READ THE IMPORTANT FLYER INCLUDED WITH THIS ISSUE

RABY GALA SPECIAL

What’s inside this issue...

P12

P13

Harry Potter and the Grand Lodge Officer

AGM

NEC Luau

A Knight to Remember

GET THE POINT THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

EDITOR’S NOTES

AND THE

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So much has happened since our last issue, which is nothing unusual in our tremendous Province. We have had our Annual Chapter Convocation and the Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge, both bringing a new crop of Acting Officers and, of course, an equal amount of brethren retiring from their roles. To the new officers, we wish them the best of luck in their endeavours and, to those retiring, we thank them for their efforts and hope that they enjoy their well-earned rest.

The Raby Gala was a magnificent success despite the weather conditions that really did make things a ‘challenge’. To the many people who worked so hard to make this happen, we offer our sincere thanks and we also thank the people who turned up on the day and offered their support. Our Festival has passed the one-million-pound mark, which is a phenomenal achievement in such a short space of time; the support from all corners of the Province has been overwhelming and our Provincial Grand Master’s ‘Dripping Tap’ really is helping to fill that three-millionpound bath.

@PGLDurham

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Jamie Parker, son of John Parker, an Officer of the United Grand Lodge of England and our Past Provincial Grand Orator, has been cast in the title-role in the much anticipated ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’. Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a new play by Jack Thorne, directed by John Tiffany, and is currently running at the Palace Theatre in London. Jamie’s parents, John and Ann, who attended the first previews, could not be more proud. Along with the rest of those audiences, however, they have agreed to “keep the secrets” and are saying nothing about the plot!

In a strange twist of fate, about 20 years ago, Jamie used to frequent the same coffee shops in Edinburgh as Rowling. If she had looked up from writing her hit novels she may have noticed Jamie, the round-spectacled schoolboy, on another table, finding it hard to fit in to his new boarding school. Strange to think that, decades later, Jamie would be playing the very character J K Rowling was creating, albeit it an older Harry Potter who is now an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband, and father of three school-age children. Jamie in Character Photograph Courtesy of PremierComms

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY

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!

If you have an article to submit or an event that needs covering contact the news team news@news.pgldurham.org

GRAND OFFICER

Many masons out there will know all about their sons dreaming of being Harry Potter, especially when the famous books by J K Rowling became a big-screen success more than 15 years ago. For one proud Durham Freemason, that is exactly what has happened to his talented boy!

This is my last edition as Editor of your Gazette and I really am very appreciative of all of the support I have had over the last few years. It has been an honour and a privilege to represent the Province in this capacity, and I wish the very best of luck to Paul O’Doherty who is taking over the reins in our Autumn edition. Please support Paul and the Coms Team by letting us know what you are up to within your lodges and masonic halls. We do so much good out there, let’s not keep it a secret.

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HARRY POTTER

WHAT’S INSIDE

PGLDurham

Our Deputy Provincial Grand Secretary, Mike Davis, took time out of his busy schedule to initiate his grandson, Andrew Barton, an IT engineer at Intelect UK, into Lodge of Harmony which meets at the Masonic Hall in Burdon Road, Sunderland. Assisting Mike in his work was Andrew’s father, Rod Barton, who proudly accompanied his son throughout

the evening. Just to apply even more pressure, Andrew’s boss and our own Festival Director, John Thompson, had come along to savour the moment. This was a great occasion to see all three family members perform almost all the evening’s procedures so impeccably. A very proud day for grandad, grandson and dad!

Rod, Andrew and Mike after Andrew’s initiation

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

CHAPTER CONVOCATION ENJOYED BY ALL

A MIDSUMMER DREAM FOR TWO LOCAL MASONS You wouldn’t expect the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) - the Nation’s premier showcase of the Bard’s work - to let the 400th anniversary of his death slip by un-noticed would you?

The last Wednesday in May saw the highlight of the Royal Arch Calendar arrive with much anticipation as Companions from all corners of the Province gathered at Rainton Meadows Arena to enjoy the Annual Provincial Convocation.

On occasions such as this, many people gather from across the Province for various different reasons. Some are there to support friends and family receiving Provincial honours, some are there as part of the Provincial team, but many are there simply to enjoy the magnificent occasion surrounded by the usual pomp and ceremony that is even more impressive and colourful in the Royal Arch. With everyone in their places Andrew Dixon, on his last duty as Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies before moving to that role in the Craft, called the Companions to order as the Grand Superintendent, Norman Eric Heaviside, escorted by his Provincial Officers, paraded into the arena in fine style.

the body of the convocation as Assistant Directors of Ceremonies expertly guided Companions to be appointed, and then safely back to their seats, in military fashion.

With the Convocation opened in due form, the usual business was then attended to. The minutes of the previous Convocation were approved, apologies received and special mention was given to those who had sadly passed to the “Grand Chapter Above” during the past year.

Before long, everyone was back in their respective places, a brand new team had been appointed, and many Companions sat back in their seats grinning from ear to ear, their collars that little bit heavier with their respective jewels of office now attached. The Grand Superintendent, Norman Eric Heaviside then addressed the convocation and, in doing so, he congratulated all those he had had the pleasure of appointing to Provincial Grand Rank and also congratulated those who had received Grand Rank in Supreme Grand Chapter in London in April. He continued by championing the new ‘Setting the Scene’ ritual and briefly

With the Statement of Accounts accepted and Treasurer and Auditors elected for the ensuing year it was then time for the highlight of the occasion for most as the Grand Superintendent proceeded to appoint and invest his Provincial Officers. It was ‘as you were’ at the top, with one exception, as Rak Bhala replaced Paul Mundell who had completed a successful four-year appointment as Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals. The ‘carousel’ then formed in

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So, when local amateurs got the chance to join the professionals – first, in Newcastle in March, and then in his home town of Stratford in June, you can imagine the excitement of those chosen to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Not only that, the BBC thought it worthy of following the local actors throughout their selection, rehearsals and performance ‘journey’, so some readers may already have seen “The Best Bottoms in the Land” on national TV in May!

Ian and Andrew outside the Royal Shakespeare Theatre

So it was that two Darlington Freemasons - members of Marquess of Ripon Lodge and Barnard Castle’s “Castle Players” - got to ‘live the dream’ – quite literally - by taking roles in the RSC’s touring production of one of Shakespeare’s most popular works, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

Our photos show the play’s “Mechanicals” - six amateur actors in the ‘play within a play’ - on stage at Newcastle’s Northern Stage with Ian Kirkbride and Andrew Stainthorpe (2nd and 3rd right respectively) about to enter the famous Stratford venue at the end of the play’s ‘run.’

touched on the 2021 Festival. He also announced the brand new Provincial Website, which had been launched as the meeting was taking place, and he finished with a Thank You to the outgoing Provincial Officers and to all who had made the occasion such a success. With Provincial Grand Chapter closed and the National Anthem ‘raising the roof’, the arena was transformed from Chapter room to banquet hall by the impressive Rainton Meadows’ staff, aided by the ever-present Provincial Grand Stewards who work so tirelessly in the background on such occasions. 230 Companions attended a marvellous Festive Board with wine, cheer, and the companionship that makes the Royal Arch such a marvellous part of Freemasonry.

Andrew and Ian as ‘Mechanicals’ on Newcastle’s Northern Stage

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ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

ROLL OF HONOUR

RYTON REELS IN FOR LOCAL FISHERMEN

The following brethren qualified to receive certificates to mark long service to Freemasonry.

70 Years in Craft: Kenneth Rigg

Whitwell No2104

60 Years Craft: Robert Gilbert Johnson John Curry Errington Thomas Henry Havis Raymond Macaree

Civic No5841 Crowley No6901 Eslington No4623 Lodge of Industry No48

50 Years Craft: Frederick Ernest Dunmore John Cook Alan William Lillington Francis Edmund Stephen Rhodes John Hicks Keith Robson Hopper Ernest Dockwray Ronald Laverick Shield Anthony Craven William Burtt Holden William Ferguson Robert Howe David Ross Gordon Alderson Ian McMillan David Grice Stanley Wren Alan Lawrence Chapman Norman Brookes William Geoffrey Dunn Norman Wilson Alan Snaith Oates George Johnson Hay Stanley Fitches Silvester William Brunton

Karl, Paul and John at the presentation

Fishing fans in Ryton have had a magical boost with a tremendous donation, from members of Ryton Holy Cross Lodge Benevolence Committee, which will be used to enhance the facilities at their community fishing club. Ryton Holy Cross Lodge certainly cast a spell with Karl Brown and Paul Richardson of Ryton and District Angling Club who, after enjoying an evening of hospitality and friendship as guests of the Lodge, were presented with a cheque for £500 by John Watts, Assistant Provincial Grand Master. On receiving the donation, along with a laminated certificate to mark the occasion, Paul said, “This donation is gratefully received and will be used to promote, encourage and support the younger members in the club and help build safety platforms for them and others at the Ryton Ponds.” He went on to say “We currently only have single

platforms which can only be used by one person at a time. This means fathers and sons cannot fish together and it is something we feel we need to change quickly”. He then added “We are overwhelmed by the generous donation and support shown by local Freemasons, and the members of the club, and the people in the Ryton area in general, are very appreciative of all their support. This donation will enhance fatherand-son relationships and is a truly wonderful example of funds going in the right direction”. Lodge Secretary Malcolm Ormiston, who was central in the hosting of both Karl and Paul added, “Both were excited to have attended, and we were delighted that they left very happy, and were clearly thrilled to have received such a generous donation - and were very keen to tell others about their wonderful masonic experience”.

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Tyne Dock No4218 Penshaw No3194 Vedra No3137 Hadrian No1970 Tritram No2415 Surtees No4593 Hedworth No2418 Roger de Fery No5879 Tynedale No3067 Stanhope No3520 Eardulph No6645 Penshaw No3194 Penshaw No3194 Ernest Dixon No7856 Lodge of Fidelity No7237 Bedic No5915 Roger de Fery No5879 Clavering No3290 City No3568 Willington No4028 Norman No1334 Manor No7908 Eanred No7478 St Aidan No4080 Crowley No6901

60 Years Royal Arch: Geoffrey Birch

Ryton Holy Cross No4231

50 Years Royal Arch: Wilfred Burns William Milburn Harrison

www.durhamfreemasons.org

Liddell No3616 Hudson No2791

WAR HERO

LEAVES LEGACY David Black, a Master Mason who died back in April 2013 aged 94 followed by his wife Winnifred who died later the same year aged 96, has left his entire estate valued at over £29,000 to Durham Benevolence. This wonderful gesture by a very generous mason is typical of a man who was greatly respected and an admired honorary member of both Vedra Lodge and Lodge of Harmony in Sunderland and Sportsman’s Lodge in Shiney Row. Roy Neville, a fellow member of Vedra who had power of attorney for David and

Winnifred in the later years, said that David never lost his sense of humour and modest demeanour. Roy particularly wishes to highlight the role played by Mike Davis of Lodge of Harmony and his wife Margaret, who cared for the couple in an exemplary manner and, for many years, epitomised our simple message “Freemasonry Cares”.

ORIGINAL

SNAIL MAIL Whilst reading a list of lodges yet to contribute to the Raby Gala start-up fund, Ian Heaviside, Festival Hall Ambassador for Chester-LeStreet, was dismayed to see his own lodge, Eardulph in the ‘still owing’ column. Dismayed, as he had personally posted the cheque so immediately thought there had been some kind of administrative error. On checking the lodge’s bank

account, he noticed that the cheque had not been cashed. Ian immediately wrote to the Gala Treasurer, Nigel Foster, apologising for the error and enclosing a new cheque asking that, if the other cheque were to turn up, it could be destroyed. Little did they know that Ian’s ‘snail mail’ had become just that, as a neighbour found it some weeks later in their garden, half eaten by snails!

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

2016 AGM

NEW PROVINCIAL STEWARDS

A SPLENDID OCCASION

At the Annual meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge, the Provincial Grand Master had the pleasure of investing 12 new Past Provincial Grand Stewards. Provincial Grand Stewards, for the benefit of our non-masonic readers, are normally Masters

Saturday 25th June 2016 saw hundreds of brethren, from all over the Province and beyond, flock to the Lancastrian Suite in Dunston to attend the spectacle that is the Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge.

of their lodge or have recently installed their successor into the Master’s chair. A Steward will usually have been nominated for having shown excellence during his time within the lodge, and will be expected to show promise in serving the Province in a number

The 12 new Stewards on their First Night in the Stewards Lodge

of capacities over the next 6-7 years. As is usual, Provincial Stewards are requested to join the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge, which meets at Ferryhill. Once a member of this lodge, their various skills will be identified and appraised, and

they will be allocated to a team that will best benefit from their attributes. The picture shows all 12 on their entry into the Stewards Lodge early in July. Good luck in your various roles, you are now part of the work horse of the Province!

NEW PROVINCIAL WARDENS This showcase event is, for many, the highlight of the masonic calendar and is always thoroughly enjoyed by those who attend. This year was no exception as the usual faces, along with many new additions, gathered on a beautiful summer’s day to support the many Brethren receiving Provincial honours. Those arriving early would have been greeted by the usual hustle and bustle as the many people who work so hard to make such meetings a success went about their business, applying the final touches and perfecting their particular tasks to be performed on the day as the hall was awash with brand new morning suits and shiny new regalia. With the hall full to capacity and the Brethren all seated, the usual colourful processions paraded into the arena, the last four through the

After the address, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master thanked the various hard-working Brethren who had given up their time to make the occasion such a splendid one; these included the Secretarial team, the Director of Ceremonies team and, of course, the tremendous Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge.

door, as usual, being the Provincial Grand Master, flanked by his Sword and Standard Bearers. With everyone in their places Provincial Grand Lodge was opened in due form and the items of business proceeded with in the usual manner. The highlight of the day was, of course the appointment and investiture of the new Provincial Officers and what a sight it was to see the proud, smiling faces as the carousel of Provincial Stewards collected brethren from their seats, taking them to the Provincial Grand Master to receive their welldeserved awards.

The Provincial Grand Master then gave special thanks to four Brethren who, after many years of service between them, were retiring from their positions within Province. Geoff Lewis who had served as Provincial Grand Tyler for four years, John Parker who was retiring as Provincial Grand Orator after almost nine years, David Hanson who was retiring after four years as Deputy Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies and last, but certainly not least, Andrew Foster, who, after six years as our Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies was handing over

With the last brother invested, and salutation given to the new Provincial Officers, the Provincial Grand Master delivered his annual address (visit the Provincial website to read the full address www.durhamfreemasons.org).

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the baton to Andrew Dixon. We thank everyone who stepped down on the day for the marvellous effort, commitment and hard work afforded to this Province. The heavens may have opened as torrential rain replaced the sunshine but this did not dampen the spirits of the brethren assembled as Provincial Grand Lodge was then closed and the hearty singing of two verses of the National Anthem attempted to raise the roof of the Lancastrian Suite. With everyone in high spirits the record attendance turned to the festive board where a fantastic meal was enjoyed by all. This truly was a remarkable masonic occasion, and it was clear for all to see that people were enjoying their Freemasonry. Roll on the Promotions meeting in November!

When you book your summer holidays there are always things you need to consider, having time off from work, who to water your plants, who to look after the dog, and other similar everyday problems, but we don’t suppose anyone would have ever had to think ‘What if I get appointed as Provincial Senior Grand Warden?’ Well, for Charles Frederick George Walton (better known as Charlie) of Tristram Lodge in Shildon, that is exactly what happened. So, at the Provincial AGM in Dunston, Clinton Leeks remained in the Senior Warden’s chair as Peter Thomas of St Aidan Lodge in Blackhill was appointed as the new Provincial Junior Grand Warden. After the new Senior Warden elect had returned from his holidays, it was deemed appropriate that a small Deputation of Provincial Officers, including the Provincial Executive led by the Provincial Grand Master, would visit Shildon to invest Charles with his prestigious collar of office, in his own lodge.

Charlie was initiated into Tristram Lodge in 1978 and became their Worshipful Master in 1989, he is also a Past Master of Wear Valley Lodge. A retired Head of Planning and Technical Services for the former Sedgefield Borough Council, Charlie is now a volunteer at the National Railway Museum in Shildon which caters for his love of steam railways. Happily married for 36 years to Julie, who works part-time as a District Nurse, they have one daughter Lucy, who is the editor of an online magazine. Charlie’s hobbies - other than Freemasonry - include railway modelling, music, visiting the Lake District and writing novels and, with the help of his daughter, he has just finished his first book. Peter was initiated into St Aidan Lodge in 2002 and became their Worshipful Master in 2009, he was appointed as Past Provincial Grand Steward in 2011 where he served on the Training and Education Committee as well

The New Wardens at Tristram Lodge

he enjoys reading, history, following Arsenal Football Club and, of course, Freemasonry.

as carrying out other duties. An Educational Consultant, Peter works with schools and businesses across the North East. He lives with his partner Christine and children Harry (15), Eddie (13) and Anna (11) and, if he has any spare time,

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

We congratulate them both on their preferment and wish them the best of luck in the year ahead!

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

RABY GALA SHOWS FIGHTING SPIRIT With much being said in the media recently about the country needing to unite in making Great Britain ‘Great’ once more, there could hardly have been a greater example of the fighting spirit as hundreds of Durham Freemasons made sure the Raby Gala was a fantastic success, despite the weather throwing everything at them in a futile attempt to ruin the occasion.

It is difficult to imagine the amount of hard work and forward-planning that goes into organising an event on such a scale as the Gala and, for most, turning up on the day, enjoying the occasion, and taking fantastic memories home with them is the order of the day. Take a step back and you see Andrew Foster and his Gala team working tirelessly as their year of meticulous planning was put into action; Dave Green and the formidable Richard Vipond and the Provincial Grand Stewards putting a phenomenal amount of effort into carrying out their

duties in what will arguably be their biggest task as their time as Stewards. And individual lodge members showing the same commitment in setting up their own stalls in an attempt to maximise the money raised for the Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys. All this with the Great British weather trying to destroy the day, with shades of almost every season. Did it succeed …..? Of course it didn’t, as the Raby Gala once more was a roaring success. With everyone coming together to lay on a fabulous

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day for all of the visitors who supported the event en masse.

to the Gala and hoped that all would have a good, enjoyable day.

With the doors open to the public, the Gala was officially opened in style with the X Company 5 Fusiliers Band marching into the main arena followed by a magnificent horse and carriage transporting the Provincial Grand Master, Norman Eric Heaviside, Festival Director, John Paul Thompson and Les Hutchinson, Chief Operating Officer of the newly formed Masonic Charitable Foundation. The Provincial Grand Master then welcomed everyone

With the Gala opened, the Army Display Team started the proceedings with a bang as they ‘invaded’ the main arena, showing off their military prowess and skills. Despite the heavens opening on several occasions and high winds making conditions challenging (especially for those with gazebos), the day ran like a dream. The hard work done by so many people was clearly evident, and the joy on many faces was just reward for their efforts.

www.durhamfreemasons.org

“It was an immensely proud moment to see the brethren of Durham with their families and friends coming together to support our 2021 festival.” John Paul Thompson Festival Director

One of the Great North Air Ambulances (G-NHAA) used the Gala as its operational base for the day, and a real highlight for many was its arrival. This magnificent helicopter swooped from the sky to land next to one of the main marquees, and proved to be a real point of interest for young and old. During the course of the day the PGM and John Thompson had the privilege of presenting Director of Charity Services for GNAAS, Deborah Lewis-Bynoe, and some of G-NHAA’s crew with a cheque for £4,000 as part of our annual donation from the Masonic Charitable Foundation. After lunch, it was the Provincial Grand Master’s real privilege to present Les Hutchinson with a further cheque for £250,000 bringing the total so far donated - only six months into the Festival - to a staggering £1,000,000. This was highlighted by 12 Provincial Stewards who peeled off their hivis jackets to spell out the total so far printed on their t-shirts. The weather taking a turn for the worse later in the afternoon perhaps curtailed the day sooner than expected but it certainly did not dampen spirits of the people

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

gathered in the main music tent to witness the PGM, along with Gala Director, Andrew Peter Fall Foster, conduct the Grand Draw - with one lucky winner collecting £5,000 - with so many other prizes. As many people stayed and chatted with friends and family, enjoying the food and refreshments available, some hurried home, not to finish their day but to change into full Hawaiian attire and return to Raby the enjoy the Luau organised by the North East Corner. This also proved a fantastic success as the loudshirted, garland-wearing party people enjoyed a Hawaiian party late into the evening. For many of the organisers of this outstanding event they will be waking up this morning pleased that it all went to plan, and even more pleased that it is now all over. For many others, though, their first waking thought would have been “When is the next one?” Well done to everyone involved!

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

NEC LUAU BRINGS CURTAIN DOWN ON RABY WEEKEND A luau (Hawaiian: lūʻau) is a traditional Hawaiian party or feast that is usually accompanied by entertainment. When the North East Corner were approached about organising the Saturday evening social, in the main entertainment tent, at the Raby Gala weekend, it was decided by the NEC Committee to go for a Hawaiian Luau beach party theme. Chris Gray, as Chairman of the NEC, handed the project to Barrie Tudberry and Bob Jubb who, in turn, formed a Luau committee of Paul Sutton, Joe Smith, Tom Billington, Robin Crosby and Ian Silcock. As none of the committee had organised or run an event of this size before, the process turned out to be a steep learning curve for everyone concerned.

The hard work the team put in manifested itself as an enjoyable and successful evening that will be long remembered by everyone present.

Along the way, two of the bands that had been booked for the evening broke up, the catering arrangements also changed twice more, along with many other “incidentals” but, as they say, “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”! After some diligent work and research, a band from Northumberland called The Pretty Weeds, were booked and they turned out to be a fantastic addition to the evening by playing a broad range of songs which had everybody dancing.

The Stricken Ferry being Salvaged

At the start of the organisational process, it was decided that fun was the prime objective. The evening consisted of various fun, fundraising games and competitions, ranging from Best and Worst Dressed Male, to the hotly contested Luau Queen that was decided by a catwalk style walk up and down the dance floor.

RIDE EM COWBOY (AND GIRLS)

The Mark Degree held a Hoedown in the main entertainment tent on the evening before the Gala which turned out to be a huge success. The Country and Western themed night organised by Billy Duck was a sellout, and a fantastic time was had by all who attended. The guests were entertained by The Dwight Martin Country and Western Show with a hog roast supper. The money raised on the evening allowed Mark Provincial Grand Secretary, Danny Guy, to present our Provincial Grand Master, Eric Heaviside, with a cheque for £2,000 towards the Gala total on the day itself. Well done cowboys and girls, and thank you for ‘Marking Well’.

A KNIGHT TO REMEMBER

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Back in May of this year, Stewart K Bell, as the Acting Great Standard Bearer in the Great Priory of Knights Templar, was summoned to attend the Annual Meeting being held in London. He travelled with his wife Wendy to Walton in Essex planning to commute into London for the meeting. While in this area he decided to go and view a recently-unveiled memorial stone to those who died in a ferry disaster off the Suffolk coast 34 years ago. Six people were killed when the Townsend Thoresen vessel European Gateway capsized after colliding with the Speedlink Vanguard on 19th December 1982. They went to the Harwich Lifeboat Station to make enquires. There, they spoke to an elderly gentleman, Captain Roderick Willis Shaw MBE who, astonishingly, had been the Harbour Master in Harwich on the night of the disaster and had helped coordinate the rescue. What relevance, you may wonder, has this to Stewart? On that fateful day, Stewart, at the age of 26, was a continental driver for Brown Wharrier

Transport in Gateshead, and had set off to Felixstowe with deliveries for Europe. The European Gateway set sail at 10:00 pm with 70 on board, a mixture of crew and lorry drivers, including Stewart who retired to his cabin at 9:30 pm and settled down for the night. Around 11:00 pm Stewart was woken by a Dutch lorry driver who came into his cabin looking for a lifejacket. Stewart quickly dressed and came into the midship area where the ship’s Purser was handing out lifejackets saying that there was nothing to panic about, and informing them that there had been a bit of a collision and the lifejackets were precautionary, at this time there had been no alarms or announcements. Weather conditions were gale force 8 to storm force 10 and, without warning, the ship started to list to a 45-degree angle. Stewart recalls being flung into other passengers while falling down the ship, “I remember struggling with others to lift open the door to go out onto the deck, the lights had all gone out, there were all sorts of articles smashing and

breaking as the list increased. I managed to get onto the deck where a number of people could be seen in the pitch black water. Attempts had been made to launch lifeboats but because of the severe list they were crushed by the ship. Nobody was giving directions; it was every man for himself”. Stewart was considering jumping into the water as the ship was now listing at 65 degrees. A split second later a pilot boat came into view, and backed under the capsizing ship. Stewart with 24 others walked up the ship’s rail and jumped, landing on the deck of the pilot boat which pulled out as the ship rolled over. “I helped with others to pull the Purser from the sea; he could talk but could not move an arm or leg. By this time the rescue helicopter was above, lighting up the area but causing a huge swell. We were then transported into Harwich”. Talking to Captain Shaw turned out to be a very emotional encounter for Stewart. He explained that he had received the SOS from the ship and coordinated the rescue. Doctors,

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

Stewart (r) with Captain Shaw

nurses, policemen and many more came offering their help as survivors were brought ashore. Sixty-four survivors were rescued. The pilot boat captain who risked his own life was awarded the RNLI Bronze Medal. Captain Shaw went on to become an expert on maritime safety and travelled the world, being awarded the MBE in 2013. He became secretary of the Harwich lifeboat and wrote a book, kindly presenting Stewart with a signed copy. In the book Captain Shaw is pictured with HRH the Duke of Kent, the President of the RNLI. Wendy and Stewart did find the memorial stone and together said a prayer not only for those who were lost but also to those who put their lives on the line to save others.

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

HARTLEPOOL FISHING FOR FUNDS IN THE COMMUNITY

GALA PHOTO COMPETITION With so many photographers attending our Raby Gala we are pretty sure there are many humorous pictures out there. Why not share them with us so we can display them in the next issue. Here are some that were taken by our team.

When Mark Hoynes, a young Freemason from City Lodge in Durham, learned about the 2021 festival, he immediately thought of a fishing competition. It combined something he loved doing with the joy of raising money for a worthy charity.

The fishermen before Cast Off

RABY GALA WORD SEARCH

X W Y

N O

O M O

A M C

H O

See if you can find the words relating to our Raby Gala hidden in the grid…. good luck!

U M M

TEESBAY PHOTOBOOTH DANCING CATCH A DUCK RABY CASTLE CLASSIC CAR FALCONRY CHOIR ARMY DISPLAY TEAM CHARITY LUAU BUSES AIR AMBULANCE TOMBOLA HOG ROAST PUNCH AND JUDY CUPCAKE STALL

TEA PARTY SINGERS CYCLE DISPLAY COCONUT FUN DAY HORSE AND CART FACE PAINTING ARTS AND CRAFTS BEER TENT BLOOD BIKES BOUNCY CASTLE MORRIS DANCERS GRAND DRAW DEER FAIRGROUND RIDE CLOSEST TO THE PIN SCARBROUGH COURT

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N Q

O O

N O

D O H

N M H

T W C W A

O N

P W Z

H O G

D M

T W C

H O H

N M

A M Q

www.durhamfreemasons.org

Last year the Freemasons of Hartlepool gave a grant to the Southbrook Community project. The project supports young people with a range of challenging issues. One of their projects involves refurbishing old bicycles and then passing them on to developing countries via a scheme run by Halfords.

At the time of the visit one of their members, Graham Brown, promised to help Southbrook source some much needed tools. Sadly, Graham died before fulfilling his promise and, in memory or Graham, the Hartlepool Masonic Benevolent Association took up the challenge and last week presented the Southbrook Community centre with a cheque for £200 to support their ongoing youth projects.

Mark was introduced to fishing at a young age by his father, and has only just recently got back into fishing after many years away due to ill- health. Last year Mark suffered from severe depression and bouts of PTSD from his army days. He was told by his doctor to find a ‘coping mechanism’. Something he enjoyed, gave him time to reflect and to relax. So Mark went to his shed, dusted off his fishing gear and got himself out there. After publicising the event on the Provincial website, and also with plenty of promotion from the festival newsletters, more than twenty fly-fishers and bait-anglers attended. After the earlymorning gathering at the fishing lodge at Derwent Reservoir near Consett to discuss the rules and choose their pegs, lines were in the water for 10am. Although it was a glorious sunny day, the breezy conditions made fishing hard. Anglers fished till 4pm when lines had to be out the water before returning back to the fishing lodge to hold a weigh-in and record the catches. There, all the competitors were greeted by the Master of City Lodge, Nigel Watson, where a total of 52 fish were weighed-in. The overall winners were Andy Myers on bait, with 8 fish weighing-in at 12lb, and Tony Bell who caught the most on the fly. A special prize went to the youngest angler of the day, Josh Gass. Thanks must go to Jim Hoynes, Peter Gass, Nigel Watson, Whiskey River of Durham and of course the team at the Derwent Reservoir, Northumbrian Water Leisure team for their efforts. After a splendid day’s fishing, and everyone going home with a smile at least, a total of £200 was raised for the 2021 festival. Mark is hoping to hold the same competition again next year. So watch out for that, we’ll keep you informed.

Members of the Hartlepool Benevolent Fund presenting the cheque

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

A REAL LIFE ACTION HERO Few could say they were in ‘Dad’s Army’; landed behind the lines on D-Day before the Germans had risen for breakfast; first in on the largest airborne assault in history; took part in the Battle of the Bulge; invaded Germany; in Palestine as the nation of Israel was formed; and then gone on to have a happily married life, contributing a working life to public service and given time freely to entertain the community with a fine tenor singing. This is the life story of Sunderland Freemason, Ted Hold. Life stories like Ted’s can be an inspiration to us to try to better ourselves and is one of the answers to the oft-asked question “What is freemasonry?”, which would attract that word ‘inspiration’. Sunderland-born Edward Hold was 18 years old when Germany invaded Poland in 1939 and, although initially excluded from the call to arms due to his GPO employment, he was allowed to sign up for the Sunderland Post Office Home Guard, that’s ‘Dad’s Army’ to you and me, and yes, the TV shows really did have Ted laughing at the true-to-life scenes. One exercise saw Ted (substitute Corporal Jones at this point) being ordered to halt some ‘invading’ Bren carriers on Fawcett Street with thunder flashes, which led to a headline in the Sunderland Echo of “Zealous home guard blows up umpires”. Not content with reserved occupation Ted joined the Royal Corps of Signals in Slaithwaite, where he met his wife to be, Ena, before volunteering for the specialist 6th Airborne Division Signals. The glamour of the red beret, the lure of the extra pay, a thought to the estimation of Ena,

‘WOR’ SHIP FULL OF MASTERS’ After almost a year in the planning by Alan Gurney from Fawcett Lodge in Seaham, the time had come to set sail down the river Tyne on the privately chartered SS Fortuna. Guests started arriving for pre-dinner drinks just after 7pm and were greeted by ‘Admiral’ Alan Gurney and the inevitable raffle-ticket sellers Tommy Thompson and his good lady.

a wish to earn the pride of his late father as he ‘looked down from above’, all played their part in another advance in life. Tales of overly-inflated NCOs and general pranks that Ted writes of in his highly-recommended book, “Straight From the Horsa’s Mouth”, will resound with many who have served or worked their way through apprenticeships, shipyards and the like; the difference here was what came next. Ted climbed into a Horsa glider in the early hours of D-Day, 6th June 1944, and aware that a big show was afoot, they crossed the channel. Approaching the French coast, somebody innocently remarked “Cor! Look at that!” as, in the distance, they could see a very pretty firework display. Crowding around the open door for a better look before yelled at to “sit down and strap in” just as the ‘pretty fireworks’ announced themselves as flak and exploded around them. The Halifax let go the line and after a 90mph steep dive Ted was on the ground, surrounded by Germans, in Landing Zone N, north of Ranville, near Pegasus Bridge.

Keith Haddon was a bit perplexed on arrival to find that there was no ‘upper deck’ for Grand Lodge Officers, so he decided to fulfil his dream of reenacting the Leonardo de Caprio scene from Titanic with his wife Cath. At 8pm the Fortuna set sail with more than 104 guests on board, firstly sailing up river, passing under the Millennium

Wehrmacht in the Battle of the Bulge. Ted and the Brits played their part with our American cousins in and around Bastogne. After sharing a chateau with Belgian royalty, Ted and the 6th Airborne continued their invasion of Germany up to the Baltic coast.

The fine detail can be found in Ted’s book but, to summarise, Ted was one of the first allied soldiers to land on D-Day; spent many days in a hole in the ground, surrounded, whilst servicing the essential radio equipment; followed the retreating Germans up through France, Belgium and Holland then was ordered back to Blighty. 1944 continued with Ted back in a Horsa to participate in the Rhine Crossing, the largest airborne assault in history. Ted then chalked-up another ‘episode in history’ when he was part of Monty’s army that stopped the

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No sooner had he got back to England than Ted had to leave his Christmas dinner behind and embark on a ship to Palestine. Ted and his comrades then spent a year in British peacekeeping efforts against acts of terrorism as the state of Israel was created. Glad to end this adventure, Ted returned to Sunderland, rejoined the GPO, and married Ena. He went on to become a good husband and father, work hard and enjoy his GPO pension alongside many years in freemasonry. He joined Amity Lodge in 1963,

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Bridge, which was opened especially for the cruise, to enjoy the panorama of the Tyne Bridge before returning downriver, taking in the views of the legendary shipyards of Tyneside, the International Ferry Terminals, the Port of Tyne, the Fish Quay and the great views of the rivermouth. A first-class buffet was served whilst they passed Wallsend

before the DJ turned up the tunes for the frivolities and dancing to begin. On the return leg upriver the Master of Fawcett Lodge, ‘Captain’ Gary Roper took to the mic and hosted the raffle, which boasted a wide range of prizes.

Everyone had enjoyed a great evening and, what’s more, it had been very successful with more than £460 having been raised towards the Durham 2021 Festival. So, well done Alan and Fawcett Lodge for having the insight to organise such an interesting venture.

As the night drew to a close, the vessel came to berth amid the magnificence of the lights around Gateshead quayside.

was WM in 1977, continued his amateur singing career, which involved many a night wearing a fez in Queen Street entertaining the brethren with his renowned tenor voice - remembered in caricature on the wall there - and generally enjoying the life he had earned but which had been denied to many of his friends and comrades whose lives ended on foreign fields. Ted enjoyed reunions with his 6th Airborne comrades and their trips to France and Belgium and is remembered to this day by his fellow Paras as the man whose voice, singing La Marseillaise, could even overwhelm the orchestra. We are fortunate that Ted is still with us to tell these tales and, if you have an hour to spare, he would love to see and talk to you in the Victoria Lodge Care Home, where he now lives, in Sunderland.

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

IT’S A QUESTION OF MEMBERSHIP

DATES FOR THE DIARY AUG

12 SEPT

13 SEPT

22 SEPT

27 The Lifeblood of our organisation, and the thing which makes it so special, will always be our richly diverse and eclectic membership. Over the past three centuries men from all walks of life, ranging from the highest echelons of our society to more ordinary folk, have joined our Order and enjoying the wonderful Masonic experience. However, in the last 25 years our Province has seen a huge decline in membership from 15000 members in 1990 to under 6000 today - a massive loss by any standards. We mustn’t become too despondent, though, as many of these losses are explainable when we examine our recent history. Masonry saw huge upsurges after each of the world wars, with our brave soldiers returning from the war and yearning for the camaraderie and sense of belonging that Freemasonry has always offered its members.

Unfortunately, with the passage of time, all those from the 14-18 conflict and also many of those who returned from WW2 have gone to the ‘Grand Lodge Above’ in the last 25 years, and this has contributed significantly to our national drop in members. However, there are many other contributory factors which we must examine and address if we are to enjoy a vibrant Masonic future.”

ways with the introduction of what may seem radical changes to the way in which we traditionally attract new members, particularly those who don’t know an existing member. It will also focus on giving a much higher level of support for our existing system of recruitment as well as giving the empowerment and confidence to all our members to make sure we are all more effective at seeking out new members.

The current rate of membership recession in Durham has averaged around 3½% over the past five years, or net reduction of 200 members per year.

The prevailing ethos in Freemasonry has always been to attract new, high-quality candidates to our organisation, and this will never change. What the membership scheme does, is to acknowledge that there are thousands of fine, upstanding men in our communities who would traditionally never have had the chance to join us, and give them the opportunity to become a part of what we all know to be tremendously enjoyable.

A new membership scheme has been introduced by the United Grand Lodge of England as a direct result of the Member Focus Group (MFG) to which many Durham Freemasons contributed. It will see the subject of membership approached in new and innovative

PUBLISHED BY THE FREEMASONS OF THE PROVINCE OF DURHAM

www.durhamfreemasons.org

Each Province has been given the task of appointing a Provincial Membership Officer to oversee the introduction of the scheme and, in Durham, our Provincial Grand Master has appointed Ian Heaviside to lead our membership team. Ian will be supported by a team of very active young Freemasons: Mavin Macauley, Ross Brown, Barrie Tudberry and Matthew Pearce, who will be developing and implementing a bespoke membership strategy for Durham over the coming months. A series of seminars is planned to start later in the year where the team will be travelling around the Province to show exactly what this new scheme can offer.

SEPT

FRIDAY 12TH AUGUST 2016 Lambton Chapter No375 Full team Visit

THURSDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER 2016 St John’s No80 Full Team Visit

THURSDAY 22ND SEPTEMBER 2016 Lodge of Fraternity No1418 Team Visit

TUESDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2016 Chapter of Philanthropy No940 Full Team Visit

WEDNESDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER 2016 St Bede No1119 150th Anniversary

Lived Respected and Died Regretted Officers of United Grand Lodge of England OCT

25 NOV

16 NOV

18 NOV

21 DEC

1 DEC

Barnard, TD, Lord Agricola No7741

TUESDAY 25TH OCTOBER 2016 Rose of Raby No1650 Full Team Visit

Officers of Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham Anderson, Derek Heugh No7773 Anderson, John William Yoden No5684 Barlow, George Neville Tow Law No3349 Blackett, John Rowlandson No3360 Close, Donald Tower No7292 Dunn, William Lodge of Loyalty No8635 Fidgeon, Peter Stranton No1862 Galley, MM, Robert Penshaw No3194 George, James Christopher Albion No5530 Green, George William Sincerity No6036 Hall, John Rupert Flambard No6874 Hopper, John Norman No1334 Howell, Tom Sunderland 4114 Jenkins, Thomas Edmund Clarence No2462 Johnson, Gordon Pele Tower No4435 Laverick, Joseph Leslie Derwent No4250 Owen, Frank Harkness Rowland Burdon No3960 Potter, BEM, Gordon Turnbull Saint Peter’s No8953 Prudhoe, Arthur Claude St George’s No5720 Robson, Charles Allen Ryton Holy Cross No4231 Ryan, Kevin Harte No4217 Short, John William Lodge of Fellowship No9694 Slaughter, William Ellison Hall No7165 Sykes, Albert Harold Flambard No6874 Trenholm, John Charles Indaba No9454 Ward, Gordon Perseverance No1643

WEDNESDAY 16TH NOVEMBER 2016 St Bede Chapter No1119 Full Team Visit

FRIDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2016 Promotions Meeting Rainton Meadows Arena

MONDAY 21ST NOVEMBER 2016 Ionic No6844 Full Team Visit

THURSDAY 1ST DECEMBER 2016 Penshaw Chapter No3194 Full Team Visit

MONDAY 19TH DECEMBER 2016 Provincial Carol Service Durham Cathedral

Brethren Cairns, John Roger de Fery No5879 Elstob, Alfred Palatine No97 Fraser, Donald George St Hilda No240 Greenwell, Royston Richard Yoden No5684 Linford, John Tower No7292 Mutch, Frederick George Constance No2135 Sell Ronald St Mary’s No4864 Seymour David James Sportsmans No9440 Wright Barry North Pennine No9713

This is one of the most exciting new initiatives to be launched in decades and one which we need to embrace and support.

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 23

SUMMER 2016

SCHOOLS OUT FUN CLUB

Members of the Committee with the group at the presentation

George Tilley, as a representative of Durham Benevolence, went along to the ‘Schools Out Fun Club’ to present them a cheque for £600. Based in Pennywell Community Centre, the brainchild of Debbie Easter who founded the club in July 2013, it was formed to tackle the lack of family provision in the area. The group organises affordable family activities during every school holiday, including games, sports, arts and craft, trampolining, a cafe bar, soft play, parties and themed events as well as fun days and family trips. Debbie heard about Durham Benevolence through a friend, and applied through Provincial Office in Sunderland, where the staff were very helpful in processing the necessary paperwork, Debbie added ‘‘The funding from Durham Benevolence will be used to pay part of the operation costs in running the club, and we would like to thank Durham Freemasons for helping us continue with the work we carry out in our community. A lot of families will benefit during

these school holidays, we have had over 6,000 people access our activities over the last three years and, with the help of funders like Durham Benevolence, we aim to have a lot more fun!’’

autistic, which helps towards their overall wellbeing. Pool tables are available, used especially on youth club nights, as well as a fully equipped computer suite complete with internet access, suitable for training. Several of the user groups provide computer and internet training, for all levels needed. The facility is open to the public at no charge. Events are held at Pennywell

The many voluntary staff of the club are assisted by Bill Leach, a former teacher familiar to many of the local community. Bill is one of the top trampolining coaches in the country, coaching Kat Driscoll, one of the hopefuls in the 2012 London Olympics. The centre’s sports hall is completely equipped for gymnastics and trampolining. One of the main uses for the trampolines, which happens throughout the week, is therapeutic trampolining for members of the city who are

Community Centre every Monday and Wednesday, running between 1:00pm and 3:00pm.

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Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham • 8 The Esplanade • Sunderland • SR2 7BH • T: (0191) 5675365 • www.durhamfreemasons.org PUBLISHED BY THE FREEMASONS OF THE PROVINCE OF DURHAM