the-gazette-issue-21-lr by Durham Freemasons

published by the freemasons of the province of durham

ISSUE 21 – WINTER 2016

We Have Lift Off!

What’s inside this issue...

P10-11

P13

P14

Even Keel

Durham’s Got Talent

Highest Honour Awarded to John

The Man Behind the Cards

GET THE POINT THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 21

WINTER 2016

EDITOR’S NOTES

WHAT’S INSIDE

3 8

Well it’s finally here, the festival has launched. The focus is now on everyone pulling together to make sure it is as successful as the festivals that have gone before. With the tremendous generosity displayed in this latest issue and, indeed, the issues that have gone before, I have no doubt that the Durham 2021 Festival will be an enormous success. We now have a brand new Provincial Grand Secretary in Tom Gittins and we wish him the very best of luck in his new role. We also take a moment to thank Phil Rann, the outgoing Secretary, for his support and assistance to the Coms Team over the last four years - enjoy your retirement! This issue, once again, highlights the many initiatives undertaken in every corner of the Province, the acts of kindness, generosity and tremendous community spirit, which make it such a pleasure to be a member of this fraternity.

As we gear ourselves up for 2017, and a full year of events and initiatives to celebrate 300 years of Freemasonry as we know it, we must look at ways to achieve this, not only within our masonic halls, but also within our local communities. As always, the Coms Team is here to help you publicise your events and to report on them as they happen. Why not drop us an email to find out how we can help news@news.pgldurham.org

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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PGLDurham

HELPING TO PROVIDE AN EVEN KEEL Freemasonry in the Community in our Province was recently supported by the masons of Hebburn and Jarrow, when funds were raised to assist a local specialist school in Hebburn, in the form of a non-masonic grant for the purchase of a specialised piece of equipment costing £5,000.

Awareness of Keelman’s Way School and its requirements was first highlighted by Bob Weetman, a local mason who provides specialist transport to the school and with the assistance of Paul O’Doherty, who contacted all of the local lodges, a fundraising campaign was launched to provide a specific piece of equipment that was greatly needed. The item in question is a Supine Stander, a piece of equipment that will enable older, wheelchair bound, pupils to stand for certain activities. The school provides for the special educational needs of children from 2 to 19 years of age. There are over 100 pupils at the school; some with very complex physical disabilities. Several pupils have severe muscle issues, which can affect their limbs and which greatly inhibit independent movement. The school needs appropriate equipment to fully meet the needs of the children and young people who attend, and the Supine Stander will assist in meeting those complex needs. During a recent meeting with Paula Selby, Head Teacher, and Jill Mordue, a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, John Leadley, a Benevolence Representative of the Province of Durham and several local Hebburn and Jarrow masons, were delighted to present a cheque for £5000

to purchase the Supine Stander. The cheque, made up of £4,000 donated by Jarrow and Hebburn masons and £1,000 from the Durham Benevolent Fund, was presented to the head teacher who was very appreciative of the support.

pupils’ lives. The presentation team were openly impressed by the professionalism shown by all those at Keelman’s Way School and by their determined efforts to provide a first class service and environment to the children and young people in their care.

“This is an extremely important piece of equipment. We are really grateful for the donation” Paula Selby.

The Province of Durham is committed to supporting nonmasonic as well as masonic worthy causes and charities and the efforts shown in the support of Keelman’s Way School certainly enhance that principle. To find out more or to add your support to Keelman’s Way School why not take a look at their website at www.keelmanswayschool.co.uk or contact Mrs Paula Selby, head teacher, on 0191 4897480.

Jill Mordue explained that the curriculum at the school is tailored to the pupils’ educational, physical and sensory needs, which are met with the assistance of the pupils’ families, specialised teaching and medical staff and also with the assistance of other professionals such as occupational and speech therapists. Paula added that the school is a place where pupils, parents, staff, and other professionals, can meet and support the children and young people of the area. This ethos reflects the enhanced vision of the school. During the tour of the school, and with the permission of the head teacher, members of the presentation team were introduced to several pupils, who included Amber Moore, Eric Neto and Stephen Caddoo. All three pupils will benefit from the use of the Supine Stander and it was great to see how this donation will have a real effect on these

Staff and Pupils with the vital equipment

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 21

WINTER 2016

VISITING VOLUNTEERS Back in July we reported that the newly named Masonic Foundation had selected our Province to pilot a ‘Visiting Brothers’ scheme, which would train volunteers within our Province to provide an efficient and uniform approach to the completion and submission of applications for brethren and their families who may be in need of assistance.

ROLL OF HONOUR Presentations of certificates to mark long service to Freemasonry were made to the following brethren.

60- Year Certificates: George William Green

Sincerity 6036

John Blackett

Aycliffe No8800

Royal Arch 60-Year Certificates: Sydney Cain

This was considered necessary after it was discovered that more than 25% of applications received by the charity were either incomplete or incorrectly completed, causing delays where essential and rapid assistance was required. We are delighted to confirm that these volunteers have now been vetted and trained and are now supported by the Masonic Foundation. Their aim is to ensure fewer delays and that the applicants’ needs are met by the best support package available. When asked about the initiative, the Vice Chairman of Durham Benevolence, Craig Steele, told us “I anticipate that the Visiting Volunteer scheme will modernise

the way we represent the Masonic Foundation and provide increased levels of confidentiality and professionalism to the services we offer to the applicants. It will free up Benevolent Representatives to focus on pastoral support and deal with community support grants. I commend the scheme to all the members of the Province”

50-Year Certificates:

These volunteers will not and are not intended to replace Lodge Almoners but will liaise with them to visit and help to complete and return the required forms, whilst consulting the Provincial Grand Almoner for input, when required. For a full list of the volunteers please visit the Provincial website www.durhamfreemasons.org

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Williamson No949

Melvyn Spratt

Benfeldsyde No7807

William Charlton Moore

Earl of Durham No1274

Roy Anthony Stewart

Beacon No6891

Robert Brown

Moseley No3105

Roy Reginald Tyerman

Albion No5530

John Richmond Greener

Avalon No7647

Reginald Thompson

St Helen’s No531

Gordon Thomas Pickering

Clarence No2462

Denis Barclay

St Andrew’s No6217

Alan Lyon

Nautilus No4259

Robert Grant Pattinson

Tow Law No3349

Lewis Reed

Amity No3193

Derek Mapp

Rowlandson No3360

David Alan Morton

St Andrew’s No6217

Alan Gibson

Coronation No2929

Joseph Wolsoncroft

Bernard Gilpin No3076

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FREEMASONRY UNIVERSAL Out of the many phone calls received at Provincial Office, one was more unusual than most, when they were contacted by a Brother from New Zealand who was visiting friends and family in the Sunderland area. Hartlepool Brethren Assist once more

Kevin Thompson is a member of Lodge of Harmony which meets under the auspices of The District Grand Lodge of North Island, New Zealand. His lodge had recently celebrated their centenary and he had brought with him a commemorative jewel which he wished to present to the Province of Durham. A suitable appointment was made for him to visit Provincial Office and how appropriate that the Provincial Deputy Grand Secretary, Mike Davis, who is the Director of Ceremonies of Lodge of Harmony in Sunderland, was on hand to meet Kevin and his wife and also to receive the Anniversary Jewel. Kevin presented the jewel to Mike and at the same time gave greetings from the Worshipful Master of the Lodge of Harmony

in New Zealand, Craig Harris and also the District Grand Master, Brian James Westhead. Mike thanked Kevin for the jewel and the kind greetings before handing over the jewel to the Museum Team who would arrange to have it displayed. Kevin and his wife were then given a tour of Provincial Office and, in particular, the Provincial Museum, which they found both fascinating and informative. Brother Thompson was due to return to New Zealand the following week but confirmed that he would take with him many happy memories of the Province of Durham and the warmth of the welcome that he and his wife had received during their visit to Provincial Office.

SINGING FOR THEIR SUPPER Early in December, Joe Foster of Stranton Lodge, presented Linda Morley and Joan Turner, Chair Person and Event Coordinator respectively of Hartlepool Community Choir, with a cheque for £1,200 on behalf of the Immediate Past Master, Dr Mavin Macauley. Mavin had previously invited the Hartlepool Choir to an evening of entertainment, in June 2015, where they “sang for their supper” for the pleasure of the brethren and friends of the lodge. A very enjoyable evening was had by all and the money raised represented the fruits of their labours. The cheque was presented during another evening of song where, this time, the choir were raising funds for another charitable group, Hartlepool Families First, causing Richard Turner to remark “what goes around comes around and sometimes it’s all for the good!” The choir do much to help the local community and it was a delight for the members of Stranton Lodge to hear their fine voices whilst supporting their charitable endeavours.

Mike and Kevin in the Provincial Museum

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

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WINTER 2016

MEET THE NEW SECRETARY January, as always, marks the beginning of a brand new year and has seen many of us making New Year’s resolutions, rushing to buy treadmills that will no doubt become expensive clothes horses, and gym memberships that will gather dust in our wallets. For Tom Gittins of Tees Lodge in Stockton, however, this year’s resolutions will have to carry a lot more substance than most, as he takes up the reigns as our new Provincial Grand Secretary. Tom was born and bred in West Yorkshire and educated at Normanton Grammar School, before studying at Birmingham College of Education and qualifying as a Primary School Teacher in 1979. It was in this year that he moved to Cleveland, where he has remained ever since, working in six schools. Tom has 35 years’ experience in education, 25 of which were spent in the roll of Head Teacher, in three schools. He retired at the end of 2014, aged 56. He has been happily married to Gillian (a retired Chartered Accountant) for 35 years and they have two grown up children, Jonathan (also a member of Tees Lodge), a barrister and Ellie, a primary school teacher. He is a Past Master of Tees Lodge in Stockton and is currently Second Principal

of Tees Chapter. He is also a member of Percy Lodge of Mark Master Masons, Neville Lodge of Installed Masters, Durham Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge and Old Guisborian Lodge in the Province of Yorkshire, North and East Ridings.

and I am particularly looking forward to the New Year, visiting masonic halls across the Province and making new friends and acquaintances.”

We wish Tom the very best of luck in his new role and offer our gratitude to Phil Rann, his predecessor, who did such a sterling job in his busy time in that position.

When asked of his aims and aspirations in taking up his new role, he told us: “To continue to build on the excellent foundations laid by the former Secretary, Phil Rann, ensuring that individual lodges and chapters have continuity of excellent service from Provincial Office and ensuring that serving the interests of masons in the Province remains our priority. I would aim for the office team plus our many volunteers to preserve our well-established traditions and to embrace new technology and working methods, to make the administrative side of the work easier and more efficient. The RMTGB Festival Launch and the forthcoming Tercentenary of Freemasonry in 2017 will prove exciting times for all in the Province and Freemasonry in general Tom is looking forward to building on the excellent foundations already laid.

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NO ONE SHOULD HAVE NO ONE On Thursday 18th December 2015, Age UK and the South Shields Freemasons joined forces to hold a Christmas dinner event at the Masonic Hall in South Shields.

The event aimed to bring festive cheer to around 40 of the borough’s lonely elderly people, by organising a Christmas lunch and entertainment. Gordon Finch inspired South Shields Freemasons to hold the lunch after hearing about the Age UK South Tyneside campaign ‘No One Should Have No One’. The campaign aims to tackle loneliness by encouraging the public to volunteer to help isolated elderly people.

lonely and isolated older people, after seeing the campaign. Many people believe that the only risk of the winter weather is getting cold, but older people can often become, or feel, socially isolated throughout the winter months as they are unable to get out and about due to bad weather, or may not have any family or friends to support them. This is an excellent example of how we can come together as a community to provide support to those in need.” Assistant Provincial Grand Master, John Watts said:

Victoria Dunn, campaign coordinator at Age UK South Tyneside, said: “We’re extremely grateful to the Freemasons in South Shields and, in particular, Gordon, who came forward to offer their support to host a Christmas dinner for 40

“I am delighted that the local masonic lodges have been able to assist Age UK South Tyneside by hosting the lunch for isolated older people in the borough. As a community organisation we are always looking for opportunities to support the wider community.”

TRINCOMALEE REVISITED Regular readers of the Gazette will recall how the Province of Durham, supported by Hartlepool masons, helped preserve a piece of history by part-funding an apprentice shipwright for HMS Trincomalee. Well, just over a year later, those Freemasons have been at it again, donating

more money to this excellent cause. The Provincial Grand Master and brethren representing Hartlepool Benevolence met up with the Director of Trimcomalee to present another cheque for £3,000 towards the scheme, consisting of £2,000 from Hartlepool, topped up by a further £1,000 from Durham Benevolence. Due to their hard work and determination, the Hartlepool brethren have created a strong bond with the local community, and this fantastic donation further demonstrates this link. Well done to everyone involved.

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WINTER 2016

ANOTHER CALENDAR

HIGHLIGHT Friday 27th November saw brethren flock from every corner of the Province, in record numbers, to represent their respective lodges and to support family and friends receiving promotions at the Annual Provincial Promotions Meeting at Rainton Meadows. A Provincial Appointment is a tremendous honour and a promotion is just as special, recognizing that since first appointment you have not rested on your laurels but have continued to make a difference in your lodge, in your masonic centre, in your community and within the Province in general. This was apparent as the Provincial Grand Master promoted 77 brethren on the evening, each coming forward, with a beaming smile of pride, to receive his honour, and to the rapturous applause of those brethren looking on.

brethren he had just promoted, discussing the events planned for our 2017 Tercentenary Celebrations, the Open Treasures Cathedral Project, Mentoring, a new website, masonic halls and unveiling the Festival Jewel. He also gave special thanks to the retiring Provincial Secretary, Phil Rann, for all of his hard work in the post.

When the carousel of Provincial Stewards escorting brethren to be promoted eventually came to a halt the PGM asked for Tom Gittins to be brought to the stage. Eric introduced Tom, a Stockton mason, as the brother taking over as the Provincial Grand Secretary from 1st January 2016. To his delight Tom was then promoted to Past Provincial Junior Grand Warden, which was met with another resounding round of applause.

Before the Provincial Grand Master closed Provincial Grand Lodge he asked the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, Andrew Peter Fall Foster, to bring David Graham, a Past Master of Avalon Lodge in Blackhill, to the dais. The Provincial Grand Master recounted the fantastic dedication that David had displayed over the years, listing a catalogue of outstanding endeavours and achievements within Freemasonry and, to the delight of all of those present and to the obvious surprise of the recipient, proceeded to promote David to the rank of Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden, in recognition of his services.

With the everyone back in their places, the Provincial Grand Master delivered his address, welcoming everyone to the meeting, congratulating the

With the business of the meeting complete, Provincial Grand Lodge was closed, the first verse of the National Anthem was belted out to the

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rafters and with the colourful pomp and ceremony reserved for such occasions, the processions streamed out of the arena. At the festive board the PGM was pleased to take wine with the brethren he had had the privilege to promote, before taking wine with the 355 brethren present at the banquet. This event has now well established itself as the Provincial Christmas Party and we would highly recommend it to anyone who has not yet had the pleasure of attending. Save the date for this year - Friday 18th November 2016 – it’s a party that’s not to be missed.

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THAT POINT WITHIN A CIRCLE Back in November, a small group, led by the Provincial Grand Master, Norman Eric Heaviside, laid a commemorative stone within the floor of the Great Kitchen of Durham Cathedral, marking the contribution to the Cathedral’s Open Treasures Project made by the generosity of the members of our Province. The millions of visitors that the cathedral receive each year will benefit from the flooring installed and view the commemorative stone.

There have been several technical difficulties in completing the new floor in the Great Kitchen and its surrounding area but the work is now almost complete and we await the final detailed floor plan, which will allow us to allocate each stone to its individual sponsor. It is anticipated that there will be a private viewing of the entire Open Treasures Exhibition on a selected Saturday in the near future (exact date to be notified) when visits will be available to each sponsor and one guest. This will be an opportunity to see exactly where each stone is located.We will, of course, be allocating time-slots for that day and advising

sponsors of their allotted time, with prior notice. The commemorative stone has a circular spiral inscription, confirming the contribution made. In the centre, it has been inscribed with a Spot or Point to mark “That Point Within a Circle”, the symbolic meaning of which we are all well aware.

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

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WINTER 2016

WE HAVE LIFT OFF Sunday 24th January 2016 saw twelve months of preparation and planning finally ended as Andrew and John Thompson’s vision of a festival launch had finally arrived. The venue was the iconic Sage Gateshead, the impressive world-class music venue on the banks of the River Tyne. A stunning location to launch the Durham 2021 Festival with over 1,000 tickets sold to brethren and their families to witness this musical extravaganza to launch the RMTGB festival. The audience was treated, as promised, to a night of entertainment expertly coordinated by Musical Director, Peter Johnson with a

strong message throughout the night highlighting the work currently being done by the trust. The show was opened by Enter CIC a community theatre group from Ferryhill under the direction of Andrea Flynn, after which the Festival President, John Thompson and Provincial Grand Master Eric Heaviside then welcomed the 1,000 strong crowd and invited them to enjoy the evening ahead.

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Entertainment again soon followed with the singing talents of Miss Jasmine Elcock a 13-year-old soloist, this outstanding young lady who is destined to be a star is certainly one to watch. Local entertainer Chris Tame support by Chasing Mumford followed with an eclectic mix of songs involving the audience and raising the tempo of the evening with an excellent performance. Emily Douglas and Stephen Raine were next to feature; Stephen, a concert pianist, had received support in the past whilst 15-year-old Emily, a French horn player currently receives support. The half was closed with Enter CIC “Light Shines On” from their musical.

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The Provincial Grand Master introduced RMTGB President, Mike Woodcock and CE0, Les Hutchinson to the stage to present them with a festival jewel each inscribed with their name, he then presented a cheque for £250,000 to add to the one presented for £500,000 at our Promotions Meeting back in 2014. Mike and Les then described the important work done by the charity, recounting its early beginnings. Mike finished his speech by introducing a video about a local Teesside charity Daisy Chain. The Sage then erupted with the sound of pipes and drums from the Houghton le Spring Pipe Band as they marched onto the stage providing a varied and bright compilation of music.

MESSAGE FROM THE FESTIVAL DIRECTOR

The important announcement of the Festival target followed with an introduction by the PGM and the totaliser appeared on the video screen, the numbers appeared in reverse order with the figure finishing with £2,712,768. Eric asked the brethren to support the Director and his team to reach our target. John Thompson finished by thanking all who had helped make the day and the evening possible, singling out the Project Manager Andrew Thompson whose initial idea the venue had been, and the ‘jewel

in the crown’ Peter Johnson, the musical director, for the launch event. John finished the evening by asking the brethren to “get behind the festival and let’s work together to raise the final £2,000,000 before 2021”. What an amazing evening! To anyone who missed it, well you missed a night that will live long in the memory of all those who attended. To anyone who played a part, no matter how small, in making the evening possible we offer our sincere gratitude and to everyone who attended and left the Sage feeling as fired up for this Festival as we did, then let’s make this happen.

Brethren, the Province of Durham is finally in Festival. Our launch at the Sage Gateshead was a musical spectacular witnessed by more than 1,000 people, and I should like to thank everyone who has put in such an enormous amount of effort to stage the event. Project Manager, Andrew Thompson and I both agree that it exceeded all our ambitions. Our target was announced at £2,712,768 by the PGM; with donations already made, it leaves us just under £2,000,000 to raise over the next 5 years, I’m sure with your support we’ll reach that target and maybe even exceed it. Please consider committing 26p a day to support our festival appeal.

All lodges will have now received their individual targets, I wish you all the very best in achieving your goals and doing your very best to support our campaign. The festival team is here to support to support you. Our next focus is the Raby Gala, and I encourage everyone to attend and every lodge to be represented on the day. Gala brochures will be issued to lodge Charity Stewards early March. The brochure will be the car entry ticket to the Gala and will cost £10.00 prior to the event and £15.00 on the day. Please follow all the festival updates on the festival website www.durham2021.org

Raby Castle, Staindrop, Co. Durham Set YOUR Stall Out

Evening Entertainment

Having a lodge stall at the Raby Gala is a great way to enjoy the day, as well as raise funds for your lodge target. Be it books, biscuits, bottles or buckaroo, all ideas are welcome. Contact Bill Crutchley, Gala Deputy Director. Phone: 07736 825 558, or email: bill6457@gmail.com

FRIDAY NIGHT

Grand Prize Draw Each lodge will be issued with a quantity of prize draw tickets to sell. The draw will take place at the Gala and the prizes total £7,700! (1 x £5,000, 1 x £1,000, 2 x £500, 5 x £100 and 10 x £20). Tickets will be issued in February.

Tickets — £10.00

Gala Brochure

Organised by the Mark Master Masons

These will be issued for sale to lodges in March. Purchase yours before the day at £10 or on the day for £15. One brochure admits one car.

SATURDAY NIGHT

(includes Hog Roast) Contact Billy Duck on 01325 721 097 / 07764 223193 or wduck100@aol.com

Caravan & Camping

HAWAIIAN NIGHT with music by

Places are going quickly, don’t miss out! Why not make a full weekend of the Gala? Contact George Slater. Phone: 07890 561290, or email: george@gcslater.co.uk.

The Stonecutters Tickets — £20.00 (Includes Beach Party Food). Contact Barrie Tudberry on barrietudberry@hotmail.com

Durham2021.org A man never stands as tall as when he kneels to help a child.

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Organised by the North East Corner

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WINTER 2016

THE FALLEN REMEMBERED Sunday 8th November 2015 witnessed millions of people, from all walks of life, come together to honour Service Personnel who have fallen in the line of duty, making the ultimate sacrifice, protecting the world as we know it today. Among those marking their respect were hundreds of Freemasons from the Province of Durham. As well as individual lodges laying wreathes at dozens of parades across the region, official Provincial representation was present at Sunderland, Hartlepool, Durham, Stockton, Spennymoor, Seaham, Darlington and Chester-Le-Street. Despite truly awful weather, the brethren did not let our order down and attended in tremendous numbers to pay their respects. As with last year, Reigning Masters (or their representatives) proudly wore their collars of office, our regalia taking its place amongst the other community organisations represented. Sunderlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parade, the biggest in the country outside of London, was represented, as always, by the Provincial Grand Master himself, Norman Eric Heaviside, who laid a wreath on behalf of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham. This, together

with the many other parades attended by Freemasons, was a day on which our fraternity paid its respects, when we took a moment to remember those poor souls who gave their lives for us all. A big thank you to everyone who attended the parades, everyone who submitted the fantastic photographs and, most of all, for all of those who helped in any way to organise such a fantastic display of appreciation, remembrance and respect.

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HIGHEST HONOUR AWARDED TO JOHN On July 25th 2014 The Government of the Republic of France announced that it was to recognize D Day veterans with its countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest honour. It is in recognition of the selfless acts of heroism and determination displayed by all of the surviving veterans of the Normandy landings and the wider campaigns to liberate France in 1944.

On D Day plus one John landed on Arromanches beach in Normandy where he was responsible for a number of duties including the security of German prisoners and the burial of those killed in action. He was later seconded to drive an ambulance after the driver became ill. John met his future wife Connie, whilst serving in Germany and had 65 years of happy marriage. Connie was employed with the Royal Artillery as an ack-ack gunner and John is very proud of having in his possession the telegram that she received from Field Marshal Montgomery, on her demob, thanking her for her services. John spent the next four years in Germany returning in 1948 to RAF Acklington as the Station Sergeant until he left the RAF.

John William Twiggerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appointment to the rank of Chevalier (translated, Knight or Horseman) of the National Order of the Legion of Honour will be officially recognized when the insignia of his ward is presented to him at a date to be arranged in early 2016 by a representative of the French Government.

John was initiated into Sutton Pilgrims Lodge in Warks in 1964 and became a joining member of Yoden Lodge in Castle Eden 1998 when he moved back North to Newton Aycliffe to be close to his son.

John was born in Birmingham on the 28th February 1923. At the age of 17 years when the war broke out he was employed as a messenger for the Fire Service, before he enlisted in the Royal Air Force.

John was recognised with honorary membership by the lodge in 2000 and still lives at home at the tender age of 92 years old.

PICTURE COURTESY of the NORTHERN ECHO

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THE MAN BEHIND

THE CARDS 2015 saw Durham Benevolence announce that the proceeds of the Provincial Christmas Card sales would be directed to the 2021 Festival fund, for its duration. A team was appointed to design and produce the cards and their first point of contact was Jim Harker in Sunderland, Jim having been the catalyst for the introduction of the Provincial Christmas Cards, over 20 years ago. It all started when Jim and his wife Rita decided to produce cards, from Jim’s paintings, to raise funds for the Shiney Row lodges. Due to their popularity, they were asked if they could do the same for the Province. Operating for at least five hours a day from the attic at Provincial Office, then, in later years, from the basement, it used to take two to three months hard work, printing, folding, collating and packing the cards, ready for distribution to the Halls around the Province. In those days, Jim, with the assistance of one Peter Croft, would hire a van and deliver the cards to every hall personally. In his role then as an Assistant Provincial Grand Master, our current PGM, visited Jim and Rita and, on discovering how much

Jim Harker at work were commissioned as gifts for members of United Grand Lodge. In Jim’s words, ‘every painting has a story’. Whilst Rita and Jim were on holiday in Germany a number of years ago, visiting Frankfurt, they stumbled across a Masonic Temple. Asking permission to look around one of the members obliged and to Jim’s amazement, there, hung in pride of place at the top of the stairs was one of Jim’s paintings, completed some years previously. Asking how they had come to acquire the painting, he was told that, on a recent visit to England, one of their brethren had won it in a raffle at a Lodge he had visited in Sunderland. It truly is a small world and as we have previously said “his paintings are everywhere”.

work was involved, arranged assistance for the production and distribution of the Cards through Durham Benevolence via Brian Footitt and George Tilley Jim’s passion as an artist is evident. When at home, his paintings are everywhere. Commissions are completed by request. Whether it is for fundraising in lodges or for special events, he is always obliging. Jim painted the portrait of Peter Stracey, which proudly hangs in Peter Stracey House, for its opening in 1992. He produced the painting of Raby Castle, approved by Lord Barnard, which was used to raise funds at the last Festival, and has completed many paintings of Durham Cathedral, some of which

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On being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, some years ago, Jim’s productivity reduced, but, with the advancements in medication, Jim now has a new lease of life and is hard at work producing new canvases for our next production run.

But let’s not forget Rita, the driving force behind Jim,

Rita and her legendary dressmaking skills

supporting him always in his love of painting and in his masonry. What is less well known about Rita, however, are her legendary dressmaking skills, which have been put, in the past, to making up the Knights Templar, the Knights of Malta and St Thomas of Acon regalia, for many a brother. Rita has also chaired the Shiney Row Ladies committee for over twenty years. Although not a Lady Freemason, she has been a great advocate of the movement.

Reminiscing

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£700,000 HELP TO SCOUTS The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys (RMTGB) and the Freemasons’ Grand Charity grants will support The Scout Association in their mission to encourage and expand Scouting across the country. The RMTGB awarded £211,200 to The Scouts’ Better Prepared campaign, which seeks to ensure that every young person in the UK has the chance to be involved in Scouting.

The first groups funded by the scheme are set to launch later this year.

The funds will be used to open at least one new section in 200 of the most deprived areas of England and Wales. £3,200 will be available to new groups for hiring premises, purchasing equipment or delivering training to volunteers.

‘Our mission is to help young people grow, develop and take an active place in society. We welcome the generous support from RMTGB in helping us reach out to new communities, especially those otherwise let down by society. Our aim is to create 1,320 new spaces for

Paul Wilkinson, Project Manager for Better Prepared said:

young people and recruit 66 adult volunteers. The RMTGB funding is essential to help us meet these targets.”

received new materials and equipment and more than 23,500 have joined Scouting thanks to this grant.

The Freemasons’ Grand Charity has awarded £500,000 to The Scout Association over the previous seven years.

Speaking about the impact of this donation, Mark Winson, Regional Development Officer for The Scout Association said:

The money was used provide start-up and activity grants and much needed equipment, such as activity books and games. In total, over one million young people

“These grants have been vital. The Freemasons have made a measurable difference to the lives of children in Scouting.”

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SEEK AND YOU SHALL FIND WORDS CAN BE FOUND IN A STRAIGHT LINE IN ALL DIRECTIONS

W O

LABOUR

W O

TOOLS

LECTURE

W M

HOPE

DAYLIGHT

DUTY

COMPASS

LOYALTY

RAVENSWORTH

W O

SQUARE

NAUTILUS

CHARITY

TRACING

M M

O W

LOVE

GREAT ARCHITECT

MARINER

DEACON

CARADOC

MASON

VIRTUE

TYRE

DIARY

QUALITY

PALMER

TOAST

REST

UNIVERSE

VIRTUE

UPRIGHT

SUMMONS

LEVEL

INITIATED

UEEN

SAGE

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

CAPTION COMPETITION

TH N O M S I H T

£25 of M&S Vouchers for the winner Thanks to the many readers who submitted captions for last issue’s competition, which featured Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Kenneth Edward Coatsworth Howe on another epic busker’s outing, the winner is Jeff Awdas from Coronation Lodge in Stanley with

TH LAST MON

“Ken was rather disappointed at the turnout for the musical version of his elephant joke” Well done Jeff your vouchers are on their way!

winner - Jeff Awdas, Coronation Lodge in Stanley

This months caption features Past Provincial Grand Secretaries, Phil Rann and Alan Hall as they dig deep for raffle money at the recent appointment of Tom Gittins to Provincial Secretary at Tees Lodge in Stockton. £25Vouchers of M&S Vouchers for thenews@news.pgldurham.org winner: news@news.pgldurham.org £25 of M&S for the winner

PUBLISHED BY THE FREEMASONS OF THE PROVINCE OF DURHAM

www.durhamfreemasons.org

RED CROSS THANK FREEMASONS Last year, following a grant to fund a new emergency vehicle in Sussex, The Freemasons’ Grand Charity surpassed the £2 million mark in donations to the Red Cross. This milestone has been recognised by the Red Cross who have thanked Freemasons for their continued support: “The consistent support of the Freemasons has allowed us to plan and shape our services so we are able to live up to our promise ‘refusing to ignore people in crisis’ both in the UK and abroad. We are lucky to have such dedicated support, and I look forward to continuing our partnership with Freemasonry.” Mike Adamson, Chief Executive at the Red Cross

Since 1984, The Freemasons’ Grand Charity has helped the Red Cross respond to a huge range of emergency situations across the globe, providing life-saving assistance to those affected by natural disaster. From April 2016, the Masonic Charitable Foundation will continue the work of the Grand Charity providing grants to organisations such as The Red Cross. The Red Cross not only provides support to those facing disaster abroad but also to those affected by crises across the UK. In 2014, when large areas of the country experienced severe flooding, The Red Cross played a critical role in assisting those affected and The Grand Charity supported these relief efforts with a donation of £20,000. The Freemasons’ Grand Charity has also played an important role in funding the Red Cross’s Fire and Emergency Support Service since 2000 when £300,000 was awarded to fund the establishment of 10 services across the UK. Most recently, £48,000 was donated to fund a new emergency vehicle in West Sussex. To date, over £650,000 has been donated to the service, allowing the Red Cross to deploy 20 new emergency vehicles, train hundreds of volunteers and help over 90,000 people who have been affected by fire or other emergencies in the UK. The Freemasons’ Grand Charity is proud of its partnership with the British Red Cross and to have reached this important milestone of over £2 million in funding.

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 21

WINTER 2016

SAD END PROMPTS A FRESH START

Brian Graham receives a cheque from Ron Black

Assistant Provincial Grand Master, John Watts, visited Rowlands Gill Lodge in Burnopfield, back in December, to conclude the formalities following the sale of Blaydon Masonic Hall and had the pleasure of handing over a cheque for £19,000 to the Hall Management Committee. This was the third such presentation, with the halls in Dunston and Ryton also receiving support. The hall still in use in the community

Blaydon Masonic Hall closed its doors to Freemasonry after the realisation that there were simply not enough people using the building to maintain its viability. Winlaton Lodge, Clavering Royal Arch Chapter and Clavering Mark have all now set up home in Burnopfield, Dunston or Ryton and, whilst the funds that they have brought with them will aid their new halls, it is arguable that the influx of new brethren will prove more important for the viability of our fraternity. Canon Ron Black was one of the trustees who worked through the process of the sale and the challenges thrown up in this sad but necessary journey. He confirmed the awful emotions, on receipt of the Treasurers Report to the Hall Management Committee, which had resulted in the conclusion that the Hall was no longer viable and how the trustees then undertook their task with an

masonic functions, providing entertainment for the guests.

open and transparent approach, to ensure that the thoughts and feelings of the members were listened to.

Ron continued in the spirit of giving by surprising John with a cheque, in the sum of £6,531, representing the residual funds from the sale. This money will go directly to the Caring Committee, who look after the widows of members of lodges no longer in existence, a cause which has an increasing need of funds. John used the opportunity to highlight the requirement for a fund of this nature, as administered through the Provincial Almoner, making note of a recent case where a lodge, facing inevitable closure, and after due deductions, did not have enough funds remaining to pay for their widows’ Christmas cards.

Ron described the bond that existed between the members at the Blaydon Hall and, whilst that was not enough, on its own, to make the Hall sustainable, as time had taken its toll on the illustrious past masters, confirmed that that bond will be taken forward into the halls they now occupy. The remaining brethren are now spreading their years of wisdom across new temple floors, taking new offices and assisting in the well ruling of their lodges. The Trustees feel fortunate that the Hall has been bought by the Kelly Hendry School of Irish Dance as the building will continue to have a sound community use and will be occupied by an organization which already had links with the site as they had regularly attended

PUBLISHED BY THE FREEMASONS OF THE PROVINCE OF DURHAM

The Provincial Executive are united in their concern that there are too many halls in the Province to sustain a vibrant

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and progressive Provincial Membership. This will require some considerable thought as we go forward and John urged everyone to engage in honest and open discussions on the future of their lodges and halls, pointing out that any facing viability issues, should take advantage of the knowledge and experience available in Provincial Office before the situation becomes truly untenable. George Clark, attending as a member of another of the beneficiaries of the closure, the Ryton Masonic Hall, thanked Canon Ron and the other Trustees, for all of their hard work and effort as they dealt with issues like asbestos surveys and the other pressing matters that go beyond a normal domestic sale and with the emotions the closure inevitably created.

DATES FOR THE DIARY

Lived Respected and Died Regretted Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham

FEB

FRIDAY 26TH FEBRUARY 2016 Vedra Lodge No3137 Team Visit

MAY

WEDNESDAY 4TH MAY 2016 Kepier Lodge No8308 Full Team Visit

ANDERSON, Aaron Heworth Lodge No6331 BROWN, John Thomas Caradoc Lodge No4749 CARRUTHERS, Kenneth Lodge of Harmony No4224

FEB

MONDAY 29TH FEBRUARY 2016 Preparing for the Chair Seminar, Durham Masonic Hall

MAY

TUESDAY 17TH MAY 2016 Cuneceastre Chapter No1274 Full Team Visit

CHARLTON, William Gordon Ryton St Mary’s Lodge No6550 CUTHBERT, Derek Westoe Lodge No4750 FOSTER, George Edward Constance Lodge No2135 GRANTHAM, Richard Thomas Tow Law Lodge No3349

MAR

THURSDAY 3RD MARCH 2016 St Helen’s Lodge No531 Full Team Visit

WED

WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2016 Chapter Annual Convocation, Rainton Meadows Arena

HENSHALL, John William Nautilus Lodge No4259 JONES, Robert Aycliffe Lodge No8800 LAWTHER, Gordon Neville Coronation Lodge No2929 LEWINS, Matthew St Hilda Lodge No240

APR

FRIDAY 8TH APRIL 2016 Vane Lodge No3110 Full Team Visit

JUN

SATURDAY 25TH JUNE 2016 Craft AGM, Federation Brewery, Dunston

LEWIS, John Humerous Hadrian Lodge No1970 LIDDLE, Henry Palmer Hetton Lyon Lodge No6533 McGEE, John Cestria Lodge No4493 POGUE, Clarence Constance Lodge No2135

APR

MONDAY 18TH APRIL 2016 Elevation Chapter No4185 Full Team Visit

JUL

RICHARDS, Eric Yoden Lodge No5684

SATURDAY 2ND JULY 2016 Raby Gala, Raby Castle, Staindrop, Co Durham

SAVAGE, Walter Norman Longscar Lodge No6203 STEVENSON, Thomas Albert Longscar Lodge No6203 TOWNS, John Robert James Tow Law Lodge No3349

APR

Brethren

FRIDAY 29TH APRIL 2016 Speech Workshop, Ferryhill Masonic Hall

BAKER, James Bedic Lodge No5915 BROWN, Graham Andrew Haven of Rest Lodge No4350 DAWSON, Arnold Corinthian Lodge No5808 GLEASE, James Ryton Holy Cross Lodge No4231 GOGGIN, Charles William Palatine Lodge No97 HOLCROFT, George Caradoc Lodge No4749 MORTIMER, PETER SCOTT Tow Law No3349 MUMMERY, Ronald Corinthian Lodge No5808 PURVIS, Lewis Ryton St Mary’s Lodge No6550 RAISTRICK, Sam Finchale Priory Lodge No7059 WILKINSON, Basil Henry Restoration Lodge No111

THE PROVINCIAL GAZETTE

ISSUE 21

WINTER 2016

The Provincial Grand Master with representatives of the hospices

ANOTHER HELPING HAND FOR LOCAL HOSPICES

Representatives from seven Hospices located in the Province of Durham gathered at The Seven Wellbeing Centre in Stockton-On-Tees, on Tuesday 15th December, to receive some festive cheer, in the form of collective grants, totalling £15,700, to help their respective causes. The grants were part of the Freemasons’ national support to 245 adult and children’s hospices across the country, totalling £600,000; an incredible contribution to the community. The Provincial Grand Master, Eric Heaviside, along with representatives and guests, was welcomed to the award ceremony by the Chief Executive of the Butterwick

Hospice, Graham LeggattChidgey, also a Freemason in Durham. Eric expressed the enormous gratitude the community has for the work done by the hospices across the Province and outlined the ways in which Freemasons continue to support their excellent work. He described the national drive by Freemasons to support charitable causes and spoke of the changes at United Grand Lodge, which, from next April, will combine the current four charities into one, under the banner of the Masonic Foundation. He went on to say that, since 1984, Freemasons and their families have donated nearly

£12 million to support the vital role of those helping families affected by terminal or life limiting illness. Recipients this year included the Butterwick Hospices in Stockton-On-Tees and Bishop Auckland, the Hartlepool and District Hospice in Hartlepool, St Clare’s Hospice in Jarrow, St Cuthbert’s Hospice in Durham, St Teresa’s Hospice in Darlington, Willow Burn Hospice in Lanchester and St Benedict’s Hospice in Sunderland. A truly wonderful event for all who attended and another fantastic example of how our continued contributions are worth every effort.

HOSPICES ASSISTED Butterwick Hospice in Stockton on Tees, Bishop Auckland and Butterwick Hospice Children’s Unit. Hartlepool and District Hospice, Hartlepool. St Clare’s Hospice, Jarrow. St Cuthbert’s Hospice, Durham. St Theresa’s Hospice, Darlington. Willow Burn Hospice, Lanchester, Durham. St Benedict’s Hospice Sunderland

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE IS 31ST MARCH 2016 NEWS@NEWS.PGLDURHAM.ORG

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