Nottinghamshire Mason Edition 1 by Kevin Rolling

mason NOTTINGHAMSHIRE DIGITAL

EDITION 001 March 2014

A WELCOME FROM THE PGM PAGE 4

AN INTERVIEW WITH RICHARD GUTTERIDGE PAGE 6

& LODGE FOCUS -

BEESTON LODGE PAGE 30

YOUR DAILY ADVANCEMENT PAGE 14

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WELCOME CONTENTS 9 10 14 16 18 18 20 24 26 29 30 32 34 36 39 41 42 44 45 46 48 50 51 52 54 56 57 58

Masonic Ladies Luncheon Club Forthcoming Social Events Corinthian Restaurant Learning Ritual Knowledge Bite Oration Scheme 2018 Festival News Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Who in Provincial Communications 50 year certificates No VAT rebate on Subâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beeston Lodge St. Giles Lodge 600th meeting

Royal Arch Bicentenary

(updated article from trial magazine)

Welcome from the Provincial Grand Master

Charitable donations South Notts. Freemasons for Charity Mansfield LOI Centenary Tins Appeal Ladies Saturday Club The Dambusters Raid Farewell Flanders A visit to Rochester Making your Mark Shirlock Holmes and Masonry Masonic Samaritan Fund 2013 Remembrance Samaritan Lodge Reunion TLC Valentine Lunch Masonic Associations Contact Info.

Richard Gutteridge reflects on his time in the

Holy Royal Arch (updated article from trial magazine)

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MESSAGE FROM

THE EDITOR EDITOR: Bro. Kevin Rolling

EMAIL: editor@nottsmason.com

My name is Bro. Kevin Rolling I am currently Senior Warden and 2018 Festival Steward of St Giles Lodge No. 4316. I am a member of three Chapters, The Red Cross, Rose Croix and Mark….I do love Freemasonry !! In my spare time I am a Dental Technician and, with my wife Victoria, own and run a dental laboratory in Radford, Nottingham. (very convenient for Goldsmith St. ) I have been a Freemason for a little over six years after misguidedly waiting more than 20 years for an invitation to join ..... I am therefore very keen on communication within Freemasonry and beyond, especially digital communication, that others do not wait to discover the joy of freemasonry as I did. Enough about me, I would like to pay tribute to W. Bro. Peter Olko for the sterling work and endless hours he has devoted to developing this magazine. Peter is a very busy man and is still on hand to support the digital transformation of the magazine. Future developement and content A few ideas from me : A daily advancement; Letters to the Editor; Forthcoming events & meetings; Any Questions...... Over to you - This is your magazine, let me know what you’d like to see included.

magazine team editor Bro. Kevin Rolling e: editor@nottsmason.com twitter: @nottsmason

articles Please send articles as Word docs. or pdf’s. to: magazine@nottinghamshiremasons.co.uk Please send photos separately and not embedded in an article.

advertising SALES: Please contact the Editor

distribution Initially the magazine will be published in March, September & January To subscribe please email the Editor To unsubscribe - www.bit.ly/StopMag

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RW Brother Robin Keith Wilson

THE PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER’S

WELCOME

REPORTER: Editor

“By publishing a digital edition, we hope to provide an easier means of ensuring that every member of the Province obtains his copy of the magazine”

elcome to the first edition of the digital version of Nottinghamshire Mason! I hope you like the new format and enjoy reading the articles that the editor has compiled. Since the publication in 1996 of the first edition in the original paper version, we have experienced huge changes in every method of communication, alongside which Freemasonry has become more and more accustomed to being involved in the whole process itself, coming out of its shell by proclaiming what it stands for and how much we all enjoy being members of our wonderful society. During that time, the magazine has grown from 6 pages to 40 – showing how much good news there is for us to tell to all our readers - masons and others. W Bro Peter Olko has achieved tremendous results in enlarging and broadening the scope of the articles and photographs. UGLE has recognised the value of communication and approved the appointment of Provincial Communication Officers, and W Bro Neil Potter has accomplished very promising advances in getting Freemasonry recognised throughout the county as a force for good, by explaining what we stand for, and why we are proud to be Freemasons. Alongside this, the Provincial Website has been constantly growing out of all recognition, thanks to the expertise and industry of W Bro Kevan Goddard. More recently, Bro Kevin Rolling has created a Facebook group for our members to contact each other, discuss Masonic issues and to spread information.

There is so much activity in this area that I recently appointed W Bro Graham Wood as Provincial Director of Communications, whose role is to plan and co-ordinate the vast array of the diverse strands of this important aspect of our membership. I am grateful beyond words to all these brethren for the huge contribution they all our making to the work of this Province. The next stage is to bring the circulation of Nottinghamshire Mason up to date, and at the same time to increase still further the range and variety of the topics it covers. By publishing a digital edition, we hope to provide an easier means of ensuring that every member of the Province obtains his “copy” - and to eradicate the large piles of copies that accumulate, uncollected, at our Masonic Halls! Bro Kevin Rolling is now the editor of the magazine and, as you are now aware, will email each and every member a link to view the publication online. All that is required now is for you, the readers, to play your part – to get involved yourselves in the process of communication, by recognising that the events which take place in and around your Lodges, Chapters and other Orders are actually of interest to many more of us than simply their immediate membership. If only we knew about events in advance, we could be tempted to attend them; if we are unable to attend them, we would still be interested to read about them afterwards. Communication these days is much easier than it ever has been before – all that is needed from each of us is to pass on the news to our Hall Communication Officers or direct to the editor. Enjoy this edition – I wait to hear more from you!

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;All that is needed from each of us is to pass on news to our Hall Communication Officers or direct to the editorâ&#x20AC;?

The Provincial Grand Master

Provincial Grand Master in and over Nottinghamshire, RW Brother Robin Keith Wilson QUOTED NAME

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RICHARD

GUTTERIDGE REPORTER: Julian Townsend

THE MOST EXCELLENT GRAND SUPERINTENDENT REFLECTS ON HIS TIME IN THE ROYAL ARCH AND LOOKS FORWARD TO ITS FUTURE IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

“It was the second half of the ceremony that got me excited because of the dramatic story it related.”

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When did you join the Royal Arch?

was formed.

was a young married man when I was initiated into Bentinck Lodge in West Bridgford and as soon as I had been raised I was keen to join a Royal Arch Chapter. I had noticed the pattern in the three degrees through which I had passed and was eager to take the next step. I remember feeling flattered that any of three Chapters were willing to welcome me. I decided to join a different Chapter to my elder brother and sponsor into freemasonry, on the basis that we would be able to exchange visits. I therefore joined Hayman Chapter in September 1977.

Is the Royal Arch restricted to Christians?

What were your first impressions of the Royal Arch?

was no longer nervous at being the subject of a ceremony and was determined to enjoy the experience. Wow – what an experience! The first half of the ceremony had similarities to the Craft ceremonies but I remember being surprised with the impact it had on me and impressed with the colourful spectacle. It was the second half of the ceremony that got me excited because of the dramatic story it related. The events surrounding the story were vaguely familiar to me from my Sunday School days so I should thank my sister-in-law Maureen who had been one of my Sunday School teachers at the Ruddington Baptist Chapel.

bsolutely not, all freemasons are welcome to join the Royal Arch. If fact it was the Duke of Sussex who was largely credited with achieving the accord in 1813, and it was he who said that freemasonry should not be restricted to Christians and established the basic criteria of a belief in God. The Royal Arch as part of that masonic structure subscribes to that philosophy. It is true that the Royal Arch is a gateway or prerequisite for two of the Christian Orders of Freemasonry – Knights Templar and the Red Cross of Constantine. As a Christian myself I joined these Orders later in my masonic life.

What is the Royal Arch?

e know that the Royal Arch dates back to the early 1700s and that there were significant differences of opinion around that time as to how it related to the three degrees of Craft Masonry. Without commenting on that friction I can say that for me personally the Royal Arch provided the final part of the Craft masonic ‘jigsaw’, so to speak it completed my journey in freemasonry.

If the Royal Arch dates back to the 1700s, why was the bicentenary in 2013?

he arguments which I have just mentioned rumbled on for the whole of the eighteenth century. It was not until 1813 that the Royal Arch was officially recognised as part of the masonic structure and Supreme Grand Chapter

What’s the difference between the Craft and the Royal Arch?

raft masonry has adopted the colour blue and we meet in Lodges and call each other ‘Brethren’. In the Royal Arch we meet in Chapters, call each other ‘Companions’ and have adopted the colour red as well as blue. You’ve made that additional step, you’re taking it a bit more seriously, so there’s a different atmosphere – it’s more intimate, you’re more closely linked. It’s very much

Continued........

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RICHARD

GUTTERIDGE an eighteenth-century idea of a harmonious society.

Is the Royal Arch more complicated?

he Second Grand Principal George Francis was recently asked this question in an interview for Freemasonry Today. I completely agree with his answer “I try to get people to realise that you don’t have to understand everything that’s going on, you just have to enjoy it. There are interesting ideas and stories – some of it’s quite deep – but you don’t have to comprehend every single part. It’s quite fun exploring and finding out these things slowly. You’ve got to enjoy time with people, enjoy doing a bit of acting, listening to stories and maybe understanding something you didn’t understand before.“

What percentage of Craft Masons are members of the Royal Arch?

n Nottinghamshire we are a little under the national average of 40%. I know that in this day and age many Craft masons have pressures on their time and family budget. However, generally Chapters only meet three times per annum and consequently the costs are proportionally lower than a Craft Lodge. I very much regret where Brethren feel they cannot join a Royal Arch Chapter as I feel from my own experience that these brethren are missing out on so much. I liked the comment made recently by the Pro Grand Master and Pro First Grand Principal Peter Lowndes “What is the point of watching the first three episodes of a four part TV drama and then ignoring the fourth when all is revealed?”

How do you encourage Craft Masons to join the Royal Arch?

n every Craft Lodge there is a Royal Arch Representative. It is his responsibility to provide all Lodge members with unbiased information regarding the Royal Arch and without pressure encourage them to take that next step when the time is right for them. Once per year somewhere around the Province a Royal Arch Education Evening is held. These evenings offer an ideal opportunity to learn what the Royal Arch has to offer, to ask questions and join us for a relaxed supper.

How did the Royal Arch celebrate the Bicentenary nationally?

he celebrations were held in London with a number of events on October 16th but the anniversary was also marked by the Royal Arch raising money over the preceding couple of years for a Bicentenary Fund and we in Nottinghamshire achieved our Provincial target. During his address at the Convocation of Supreme Grand Chapter on 16 October the ME The First Grand Principal, HRH The Duke of Kent, KG, was pleased to announce that £2m had been donated to the Royal College of Surgeons to assist with medical research projects.

How did you celebrate the Bicentenary in Nottinghamshire?

n contrast to the pomp and ceremony of the London celebration we held a Bicentenary party in Nottingham on November 1st. Masons, whether or not they were a Royal Arch Companion, along with their families and friends enjoyed an evening of music, food, fun and games.

How does it feel to lead the Royal Arch in Nottinghamshire?

feel very proud to lead this wonderful Order of Freemasonry. My career has been in computer software and I plan to retire early in 2014 after many years running my own business. Sometimes leading the Royal Arch Province feels like running a business. After all we have an Executive, a General Purposes Committee and a complex organisation with individuals responsible for secretarial, finance, membership records, ceremonial, information technology, pastoral care, charities, information, regalia etcetera etcetera . The only difference is that none of the Companions involved receive any salary or expenses in recompense for the hours they dedicate, after all masonry and the Royal Arch is a pastime. We are all enthusiasts and I feel lucky to be the leader of such a committed group.

How do you see the Royal Arch developing in the Province?

believe that the masonic principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth are as valid in today’s society as they ever were. We really do need standards of conduct and freemasonry promotes those standards in its practices and structure. The Royal Arch remains an integral part of that masonic structure and has its part to play. I look forward to developing the Royal Arch to face that challenge.

THE NOTTINGHAM MASONIC LADIES

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LUNCHEON CLUB A report by Zena Brenni 2013

ur Masonic Luncheon club is always open to new members wishing to join a very friendly set of ladies on the 3rd Monday of each month at The Masonic Hall, Welbeck Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham. We commence at 10.30am for a chat and coffee and then we are entertained by a speaker or demonstrator on a variety of different topics. Unfortunately in January we had to cancel our meeting due to unforeseen circumstances. In February the ladies were given a very interesting demonstration and tips by Sue Sleight on how to look ten years younger. We were taught how to apply mineral make-up to smooth out any wrinkles. We left the meeting with a wealth of new knowledge. There was no excuse for not looking glamorous at future meetings. March is the month of our A.G.M. We were sad to hear of the retirement of our Vice Chairman Mrs. Jean Dibb who had worked very hard over 9 years to bring us some very interesting speakers. We wished her well and thanked her for all that she had done for the club. After the meeting we followed through with some light hearted fun, jokes and tales before lunch was served. April brought Janet Gilchrist to our meeting. Her talk was on “A look back at a librarian’s tale.” Every job has its own amusing side and this was certainly one of those jobs. We were certainly in awe in May when Enid Young came to teach us how to make vegetable sculptures. She made the most amazing flower displays, including a wonderful lotus flower that would enhance any dining table. Her salads were a real delight, certainly a feast for the eyes. A timely talk in June for avid gardeners when we welcomed Geoffrey Smith who gave us an insight into the Chelsea Flower Show. He has been involved with it for many years and told us of the intricate layout of the show. The removal of the tennis courts and their replacement every year. Fascinating. In July we learned from Linda Davey all about tea and how

she became involved in talking about the process of creating our perfect cup of tea. The different leaves and ways of creating those wonderful blends. We were treated to an hour of roll play in August by Gill Tanner. Her amusing version of packing her case and belongings for a journey to the seaside in the 1948-50 era was a complete learning curve. Knitted swimsuits and make do and mend really came into their own. In September, Trevor Impey explained to us the enormous task of putting on a performance at the theatre by taking us on a virtual tour of life backstage. We were told of the pecking order of the stars as to which dressing they were allocated plus the superstitions that were adhered to by the stars meeting their first appearances. Our October speaker Marion Wallwork was excellent. She shared her expertise on the National Trust in the East Midlands. There were so many facts that you do not normally hear about and we were shown some amazing pictures of some of the properties before and after they had been treated to a makeover. Martin Laver of Laver Holidays by coach talked to us in November of how the business was started by his family and how holiday expectations over the years have altered the business. He treated us to some very funny stories about some of the happenings on the trips. One story was of the lady who said she would not book again because all the scenery was on one side of the coach. There must be a wealth of stories in the same vein. Our entertainment from Viva Diva on the day of our Christmas party in December was full of festive fun. Laura’s bright Santa Claus dress certainly set the scene for all the 1940s and 50s Christmas songs that were sung by many of the stars of the time like the Rat Pack. Her partner played two trumpet solos and was an all round fun entertainer. If you think that our club would appeal to you please call me on Tel: 0115 9605820 for any information that you require. We assure you of a very warm welcome and the chance to make new friends.

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SOCIAL EVENTS

COMING MARCH 30th

SWIMATHON Mansfield Charity Stewards will again be running the annual swimathon on Sunday 30th March at Watermeadows Swimming Baths. This event is traditionally held in aid of a non-Masonic Charity and this year it will support MacMillan Cancer Support (MacMillan Nurses). Every Lodge meeting at Mansfield is encouraged to support the event either by volunteering to swim, or by sponsoring your Lodge representative. The task is to complete just 20 lengths of the swimming baths; and you can take as long as you like! Please watch out for the sponsor forms which are likely to be passed around at future Festive Boards.

APRIL 4th

ASHFIELD LODGE ANNUAL QUIZ NIGHT A fun quiz for all people masonic and non masonic. This year in addition for masons only Ashfields Eggheads are challenging other lodge teams of 4 to see who is the brainiest, first prize for that contest is £32 (your entrance fee for a team of 4) which will be donated to the 2018 Festival in your lodges name. Ticket price is £8 each which includes a very light supper (Baked Potato and salad). There will be a grand prize raffle at half time. PROCEEDS TO 2018 Festival Venue: Mansfield MH

Tickets: Terry Winfield telmenal@virginmedia.com t: 07504740267 OR Richard Marriott richard.marriott@ntlworld. com t: 07754540854 APRIL 12TH

CLIFTON LODGE LADIES FESTIVAL This years Clifton Ladies Festival will be held on Saturday April 12th 6:30 pm for 7:00 pm in the Belgrave Suite at Goldsmith Street. As last year the cost will be £35.00 booking forms will be sent out shortly. Please help make this a success for the WM by supporting the evening and bringing as many guests as possible. Contact : david.blackley@sky.com for further information. Best Regards Mike Sycamore

Towpath Walk

In aid of the Nottinghamshire 2018 Festival.To be held at the Worksop Masonic Hall On Friday 25th April 2014 7.00pm for 7.30pm start. Tickets are £10 per head & includesBangers & Mash, Mushy Peas & Onion Gravy. Tickets are Available from W. Bro J M Waller Contact number 01909 473312 or Mobile 07878433622 Alternatively form Paul at the Worksop Masonic Hall

MAY 4TH

May Bank Holiday Charity Fund Day GCRN, Mere Avenue, Ruddington Notts NG116JS Contact - www.gcrn.co.uk ‘May Bank Holiday Fun Day’ SEE POSTER ON NEXT PAGE

English Freemasonry & WW1 and much more - not to be missed SEE INFO ON PAGE 41

APRIL 25th

QUIZ NIGHT North Notts Rotary Lodge Cordially Invite All Nottinghamshire Mason’s, Friends & Family TO A QUIZ NIGHT All funds to sponsor the Provincial Grand Master’s Canal

Single (£110) or Twin (£95) rooms - The min number required is 20 max 35. The cost will go down the more that go. Non-refundable deposit of £50 required by 31st March TO BOOK CALL: 07907128637 Cheques - P R Bowes - 72 Keswick Rd. Worksop Notts. S81 7PS cath_ron@btinternet.com JULY 20TH

APRIL 24th

MANSFIELD LOI CENTENARY MEETING

•Depart Penderyn 2pm •Coffee break approx. 4pm •Arrive Worksop 6:30pm

JUNE 20th-21st

Twenty/20 Cricket at TRIP TO CAERPHILLY Trent Bridge LODGE Notts v Leicestershire

Trip to Caerphilly Lodge calling at the Penderyn Welsh distillery (although only us Scots do it right) Itinerary : June 20 • Depart Worksop MH 9am •Stop for lunch approx. 12 •Arrive Caerphilly 14:00 •Depart for Lodge 17:30 •Depart Lodge June 21st •After breakfast depart for Penderyn approx. 9am •Arrive Penderyn 11am

SEE POSTER ON NEXT PAGE

AUG 2ND

Clay Pigeon Shoot Clifton Lodge organizing the event on Saturday Aug 2nd @ 10:30am. The range is at Langar Airfield in the vale of Belvoir, cost per head £25 includes 30 rounds of ammunition and a sporting layout suitable for novice shooters. If you or any of your mem-

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bers are interested in taking part or would like further information then please contact Peter Huse by email at : peter.huse@ntlworld.com asap as numbers will be strictly limited. Thank you again for your support. Mike Sycamore AUGUST 3rd

PROVINCIAL FISHING COMPETITION Hi fellow angler, Advance information to let you know that as a competitor of the competition last year, or as a supporter, that the event this year will be at : Hackett’s at Nottingham – www.hackett-lakes.co.uk Full details will be worked up in the next month and circulated, however, if you respond now stating your interest, I will ensure that your name is on the list. The final fishing details will be circulated by email and also placed on the Provincial Website. Please let any friends know. May I close by wishing you the best of health and tight lines. Peter Olko peter.olko@btclick.com SEP 20TH - 27TH

Mark Weekend Away

– Harrrogate Contact – Simon Morris. T: 07812 791137 E: gtaservice@tiscali.co.uk

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u C • Welsh leek and potato so • Irish st up ew [or ve getarian • Scottis d is h] hc • English ranachan cheesebo ard • Coffee or tea Entertain ment: The C om m un al singing words of Alan Co ppin of traditio favourite s from ‘th nal songs culmin L ead by ating wit e last nigh Sing h the t under th ers Jonathan Pric of the proms’ e Musica e a n d S a l Directio ra n of Malc h Walster Worksop olm Beva Masonic n hall: F riday, 11 th April 201 4: 7.00pm Tickets for 7.30p Paul a j u s t £16 e m t the M ach fr asonic o m : hall - 0 Or Rich 1909 4 ard ma 72037 rtin – 01636 richar 8 21615 dmartin 615@b tintern et.com

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012 Nottinghamshire Mark Masons T/20 Cricket at Trent Bridge Notts Outlaws v Leicestershire Tigers Sunday 20 July 2014, Drinks Reception 1215: Lunch 1300: Match 2.30pm Hospitality package includes: • Ground admission with free parking • Private ‘Derek Randall Suite’ balcony overlooking the field of play • Reserved seats in the Hound Rd Stand • Glass of wine served on arrival • 3 course meal • Fresh coffee/tea and cake served during the interval • Auction and raffle In aid of: 2018 Festival Ticket £35 per person Apply: Graham Riche t: 07786226109 e: graham.riche@concourse.uk.com

RADCLIFFE

LODGE No. 5313

St George Celebration 2014

Night Friday 25 April

A Celebration of England’s Patron Saint and the Nation State

Worshipful Master WBro Barry Woodhead and the Brethren of the Lodge

invite you to attend on this special evening which we assure you will be a night of fellowship and fun to remember. Ceremony - Presentation - Architecture in Masonry by RWBro Robert Holmes Henderson of Trades House of Glasgow Lodge • Special themed menu • Fanfare to herald the beef • Procession of the Roast Beef of Olde England • Ode to Roast Beef of Olde England • Tribute to St George and England • Patriotic singing at The Masonic Hall, Welbeck Rd. West Bridgford, Nottingham Meal and Wine £25 Reservations: Contact Ian Shepherd, tel 01949861267 or - send a cheque, with your email address, made out to - Radcliffe Lodge - to Graham Riche,12 Watsons Lane, Harby, Melton Mowbray, Leics, LE14 4DD

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YOUR DAILY ADVANCEMENT

LEARNING AND MEMORISING RITUAL

ne of the problems that most often plagues Masonry is poor ritual. By this, I don’t just mean getting the words wrong -- I mean ritual that is drab and uninspiring, which fails to actually teach a candidate. Ritual is often mediocre, and it doesn’t have to be; anyone can do ritual well, provided he knows a little about acting. It isn’t hard, actually; it’s mostly a matter of knowing how to do it, plus a lot of practice. This article is intended to impart some guidelines on how to do Good Ritual. It doesn’t demand a lot of time, or any particular talent, just a little drive to do well. Read it and play with it. With some practice, you should be able to use these techniques to good effect in your Lodge. The course is specifically aimed at dealing with the longer speeches, but much of it is also relevant to shorter pieces; I commend it to junior officers. This is adapted from a lecture that I worked up for my own lodge; having done that, I figured I should try to spread these tips around for the common weal of the Craft. (Caveat: I do assume that you have some kind of cypher book, with encoded ritual. If your jurisdiction doesn’t use this, you’ll have to adapt these lessons.)

2: Understand the Speech

his step gets overlooked even more often than the previous one. Read through the ritual a couple of times, and make sure you really grasp it. Don’t just know the words -- know what it’s talking about. Find out who the characters being talked about are. Again, ask questions. Now, start trying to understand the speech structurally. Any ritual is made up of components, separate pieces that are linked together. For example, a section may be talking about symbols, with three paragraphs per symbol: concrete meaning, abstract meaning, and purpose. Figure out what these pieces are -- you’ll use them later. The next step is especially useful for long speeches -- visualize the speech. Any speech can be thought of in terms of movements, places, rooms, stuff like that. Words are hard to remember in order; places are easy. The canonical example is the Middle Chamber Lecture, which walks through King Solomon’s Temple. That’s no accident -- that path is easily visualized, and makes a good example of how to learn ritual. This is why we use symbols in the first place: because they are easy to learn and internalize.

Our ritual work is the life’s-blood of Freemasonry. In this essay (originally published in “Masonry Universal” magazine) W.Bro. Waks reveals what every actor learns and what every lodge ofﬁcer should know

1: Figure out the Words

he first step of learning any ritual is to know what you’re saying! This should be obvious, but is often overlooked, because brethren are afraid to admit that they don’t already know the right words. Don’t be afraid to admit your own limits -- I’ve never met anyone who gets every single word right every time. Start out by listening to someone say the speech, preferably several times. (You should be doing this the entire previous year, listening to your predecessor.) Listen carefully, and make sure you understand what’s being said; ask questions if you don’t. (After lodge, of course.) Next, go through your ritual book carefully, and see how much you can read. Mark words that you can’t figure out, or that you’re unsure of -- this is the point to catch any mistakes you may be making. Then call or get together with a Ritualist or a reliable Past Master, and talk through it, reading out of the book slowly. Have him correct any mistakes, and fill in the words you don’t know. Take notes (preferably somewhere other than in the book), because you will forget the corrections as soon as you’re on your own.

3a: Small-Scale Memorization

his is never anyone’s favourite part; anyone can do it, but know one finds it simple. It’s considerably easier if you do it right, though. Start out by reading the speech over and over. Don’t move on to the next step until you can read it from the book quickly, without breaks or hesitation. Read it out loud, when you get the chance. This step is particularly important, and skipped more often than any other. Don’t skip it -- this is how you get your brain and mouth trained to the words. It may sound silly, but it really matters -- the mental pathways used to talk are distinct from those used to read. Now, start trying to learn sentences. Just sentences. Read the first word or two of the sentence, then try to fill in the remainder from memory. Don’t fret if you can’t do it immediately; it will probably take at least 5 or 10 times through before you’re getting most of the sentences. You’ll find some that are hard -- hammer those ones over and over (but don’t totally neglect the rest while you do so). Again, get to the point where you’re doing reasonably well on this, before going on to the next step.

3b: Large-Scale Memorization

nce you’ve got most of the sentences, try to move on to paragraphs. Again, some will be easy and some hard. Try to understand exactly why this sentence follows that one.

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in most cases, the ritual does make sense. An individual paragraph is almost always trying to express a single coherent thought, in pieces; figure out what that thought is, and why all the pieces are necessary. Keep at this until you’re able to get most paragraphs by glancing at the first word or two, or by thinking, “Okay, this is the description of truth,” or something like that. Finally, start putting it all together. This is where the structural analysis in Step 2 gets important. You visualized the speech, and figured out how it hooks together; use that visualization to connect the paragraphs. Make sure you have some clue why each paragraph follows the one before. In almost every case, the next paragraph is either a) continuing this thought, or b) moving on to a related thought. In both cases, you can make memorization much easier by understanding why it flows like that. Convince yourself that this paragraph obviously has to follow that one, and you’ll never forget the order.

4: Smoothing It Out

ou’re now at the point where you’ve got pretty much all the sentences down, and most of the paragraphs, and you’re able to get through the whole thing only looking at the book a few times. Now, start saying it. When you’re driving in the car; when you’re alone at home; pretty much any time you have some privacy, try saying it all out loud, at full voice. Trust me, it sounds very different when you actually say it aloud. You’ll find that you stumble more, and in different places. Some words turn out to be more difficult to pronounce than you expected. Try it a few times. Start out by trying to do this frequently -- once, even twice every day. It’ll be hard at first but it’ll gradually get easier. When you’re starting to feel comfortable, slow down, but don’t stop. Practice it every couple of days, then every week. Don’t slow down below once a week. If you feel up to it, see if you can speed up your recitation. (But do not ever speedtalk the ritual in open Lodge -- that’s for memorization and rehearsal only.)

5a: Mind-set

ast part. You’re now at the point where you pretty much have the ritual memorized. Now, the trick is learning how to perform it well. Very nearly everyone has some amount of stage fright; us acting types often have it even worse than most. The trick to overcoming it is control of the nerves. Now that you’re comfortable reciting the ritual, observe how you do it. By now, you’re not thinking about it so much; your mouth is doing almost all the work, with the conscious mind simply making a few connections between paragraphs. That is the right state to be in. Think about how that feels, and learn it.

Before you go in to “perform”, do some basic acting exercises. Take a few deep breaths; concentrate on not thinking. I think the ideal is a little light meditation, but it takes a fair bit of practice to be able to drop into that state on demand; for now, just worry about being calm. Being calm is far more important than anything else. If you’re calm, you’re unlikely to screw up too badly; if you’re tense, you’re far more likely to. Some people like to exercise the body a bit, to relax the mind; you should do what works for you.

5b: Acting

ow the final nuance, which separates merely competent ritual from the really good stuff. Now that you’re able to let your mouth do all the talking, start listening to yourself. Think about the ritual again, but don’t think about the words, think about what it means. What are the important bits? Emphasize those. How could you use your body or hands to illustrate a point? Try talking to the person in front of you, not just at them -- look them in the eye and make them get the point. You are teaching important lessons here; try to capture a little of the emotional intensity of that importance. Think of your “performance” as a melding of two parts. Your mouth is providing the words, your mind and heart the emotion. Again, nothing beats practice. This is what rehearsal should really be for -- taking a dummy candidate in hand, and learning how to really get the point across. Don’t fret if you find that you need to change “modes” now and then -- here and there you will need to think about the words briefly, when you change paragraphs or hit a hard sentence. That won’t throw you, though, so long as you keep track of what you’re saying; you’ve already figured out why each part leads into the next, and that will guide you when you stumble.

Conclusion

on’t expect to get all this down instantly; it takes most people a few years to really get good at it. Just try to advance yourself bit by bit. Learn the transitions and pieces first -- if you have that, you can get through the ritual. Next time, work on memorizing more thoroughly. The time after that, work on getting it really smooth. After a while, you can build up to the point where you have the luxury to act. And at that point, you will find that you start doing the kind of ritual that Masonry is meant to have -- both moving and interesting, enough so that the candidate (who is, remember, the whole point) actually learns what you’re saying, and what it actually means. And if you really do it well, you’ll find that you come to understand the meaning of the ritual a good deal better yourself. W.Bro Mark Waks Pammatt Ocean Lodge - Saugus, MA, USA

018

SEEKING LIGHT AND KNOWLEDGE

rom the first moment we encounter this wonderful organisation as a member, we are advised to make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge. Within a very short period of time we find that we are asking three types of question relating to this life long goal, seeking Masonic knowledge. These questions may be generic in nature as follows. 1. What is the meaning of what I have just experienced? 2. What is the meaning of what I am learning? 3. Why are there differences in ceremonies and at festive boards? For this short article I wish only to focus on question 3. Why are there differences in ceremonies and at festive boards?

KNOWLEDGE BITE A

s an integral part of the revamped Oration Scheme we will be publishing in every issue of ‘Nottinghamshire Mason’ a short piece of writing for brethren to reflect on should they so desire. The passage may be taken from a published document or it may be an original piece written by a mason. The intention is to be inclusive, so any brother may submit an article to me for publication – graham.riche@concourse. uk.com . Articles should be short, about 500 words, and thought provoking. The article below was read in full at my lodge Christmas Carol Service and I found it most thought provoking and very relevant to freemasonry.

What about me?

t is always a very ordinary mind which aspires to be special. You may have read the books of great people like Mahatma Gandhi and many others. You may have been inspired and want to be like them. You may ask, ‘What should I do so that I am different from others and do not go nameless in society?’ The very aspiration for greatness comes from a very ordinary mind. It is always a very ordinary mind which aspires to be special. It is not necessary to aspire to greatness or to be special. If you make the focus and the ambit of your life well beyond the concerns of who you are, if you take away this one calculation, “What about me?” from your life, you will anyway be a great human being. How great and how recognized you will be in society depends on your capabilities. You may be a great man in your street or at home, or you may become

I have asked such questions for many years and indeed come up with some very meaningful answers. Perhaps if I am allowed in the future via this newly formatted publication I may share those answers with you. However for now, I would like to create a foundation of thought as follows. For every Masonic question there are several answers, this never ending study is the way we build our inner temple of Masonic nature. The hidden mystery is at every angle perpendicular and level. As an individual the importance is to agree personal interpretation within the bounds of a moral compass. Always bearing in mind that Masonic knowledge is a living process constantly evolving by design. So it is my submission the differences of ceremony and of festive board are a very healthy, the difference and meaning we all seek to understand is clearly the fruit of Masonic knowledge. Wbro. K. P. Beardsall Newstead Lodge 47

a great man in your nation or the world. That depends on a variety of situations. One thing is the situation you are placed in. Maybe if a Mahatma Gandhi came today, he would not be as known as he was back then because there was a certain situation happening at that time. At the right time, the right kind of spirit came and things happened. Greatness happened to him not because he was seeking to be great, but because his way of looking at life is way beyond “What about me?” Just drop this one calculation from your head, “What about me?” and function to the best of your ability. In some way you will be great. You will be a wonderful human being because once you take away, “What about me?” you are naturally looking at, “What can I do about all the life around me?” Once you are looking at this, you will naturally enhance your capabilities because there is so much to do! “What can I do about all the life around me?” Once you are looking at this, you will naturally enhance your capabilities as an individual and as a freemason. Take out this one calculation and function to the fullest of your ability. What has to happen will happen. People may or may not call you Mahatma, it does not matter. You will live like a Mahatma, you are a Mahatma - Mahatma means you are a great piece of life. You are a great piece of life the moment you take away this one calculation from your mind. Then, wherever you are, you will shine. The three basic tenets of Freemasonry, ‘brotherly love, relief, and truth’ teach us to think less about ‘me’ and more about ‘others’, and thus we learn to be better human beings. Adapted by Kul Guhatturia, Radcliffe Lodge 5313. Original article by Jaggi Vasudev also known as Sadhguru, an Indian yogi and mystic.

019

PROVINCIAL ORATION SCHEME Have you a lodge meeting coming up and do not have a Candidate? Would your members like to understand more about Masonry? Would you like your next lodge meeting to be more stimulating? Is your lodge looking to do more than working rehearsals and demonstrations?

f the answer to one or more of these questions is yes, then an oration or talk could be of great assistance to your Lodge and provide something of real interest to the members. Within the Provincial Oration Scheme there are several orations and talks available for you to choose from; in fact any type of presentation for any meeting or occasion on a whole range of Masonic subjects can be catered for. At present, there is much we say and do in Masonry without always knowing the reason why. Explaining these matters can be of real interest to members and assist in their Retention. Retaining our members is becoming more and more important as we lose far too many because of a perceived lack in Masonic knowledge. It is generally felt that we do not explain enough about the Craft and its so-called mysteries and it has been found that many would like to know more. This is where the Provincial Oration Scheme can help to demystify some of the hear-say and positively enlighten those who possess a healthy curiosity about our ancient and honorable, fraternal institution. In essence, the Provincial Oration Scheme is designed to provide members with an opportunity to listen to talks on interesting Masonic topics and also to provide a relaxed forum in which discussion can take place. The specially written talks are intended to enhance rather

than replace the lessons contained in the ritual. Brethren can become so involved in learning the words that the underlying message is not always investigated or clearly understood. Orations are an opportunity to take time out to listen and then to explore the ‘mysteries’ of the ritual and their relevance to our lives and society. They are a means of stimulation, to awaken that curiosity within us and to enlighten. The topics covered by the orations can be as wide and varied as Freemasonry itself. They are not formal lectures and the intention is that they are followed by a question and answer session and discussion facilitated by the Orator. The length of talks can be ‘tailored’ to suit the occasion but where there is no ceremony a rough guide is 30 minutes presentation plus 10 minutes for a discussion. Each talk focuses on a particular aspect of the Craft and the deeper meaning of the ritual and its symbolism. The orator is trained to present the talk in an interesting way and to engage the brethren throughout as far as is practicable. Shorter Orations, taking about ten minutes are available, for local delivery, and these can be incorporated into a ceremony if so desired. However, Orations are best delivered as an alternative to a ceremony so that there is time to present a thought provoking talk and for a meaningful discussion afterwards. Orations are also highly suitable in the relaxed environment of Lodges of Instruction and Learning Circles. To request an Oration contact W.Bro. Graham Riche, assistant to the Provincial Grand Orator. I will help to identify the Lodge’s requirements and arrange a date for when I, or one of the oration team, can attend to present. Contact details: e: graham.riche@concourse.uk.com t: 01159 214146 m: 07786226109

Make time in your lodge’s Masonic year for an Oration and thereby advance the masonic knowledge of your members.

020

News

2018 Festival

2018 FESTIVAL UPDATE

ongratulations Brethren. To date we have managed to raise and pledge the magnificent sum of £1.6 million pounds towards our target of £3 million by 2018. This is thanks to the generosity of Nottinghamshire Brethren and their families who recognise the value of the work undertaken by the Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys. 2013 was a busy year for those involved with the Festival. Events included a Golf Day, Summer Ball, Ladies Race Afternoon and a series of event held by individual Lodges across the Province. All of these took a considerable amount of organising and the Festival Executive led by W Bro Peter Gregory are extremely grateful to everyone involved. During 2013 the new website was launched to act as a platform for news and event advertising. Please visit the site on www.notts2018festival.co.uk. We also require regular news items of your fundraising events for inclusion or notification of your future events.

The PGM’s Canal Towpath Walk has been keeping the organising committee busy in recent months. The walk along the route of the Grand Union Canal starts at the headquarters of the United Grand Loge of England at Great Queen Street in Central London and progresses for 175 miles to our Provincial headquarters at Goldsmith Street in Nottingham and takes place in July of this year. 2014 has already started well with a number of events in January and February. Moving forward we have a forthcoming golf day at Sherwood Forest Golf Club in May organised by Bro Malc Beecroft of Elliott Lodge. Bro Mike Sycamore of Clifton Lodge is undertaking the 3 Peaks Challenge and the London Tube Challenge to travel to every tube station on the network in a world record time. Other events already on the horizon include a Murder Mystery Evening at Goldsmith Street on 20th September, details from Graham Riche. Thank you Brethren of Nottinghamshire and please keep up the good work. W.Bro Peter Roberts

PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER’S TOWPATH WALK

n aid of the 2018 Festival - 16th July - 27th July 2014 Planning and preparation for the R W Bro Wilsons epic journey are now well underway with the PGM and committee members walking sections of the canal towpath route to ensure no problems are encountered. Likewise transport and hotels are arranged along with risk assessments and insurances obtained. RW Bro Robin is well underway with his walk training using a programme provided for him by fellow walker Sue Skillington. Currently he is training 3 or 4 times per week with the distance gradually increasing. Considering he had a hip replacement only two years ago the dedication and commitment is quite remarkable. Joining Robin for the whole distance of 175 miles are a further 11walkers who will be joined along the way by members of Nottinghamshire Lodges and the leaders of some of the Provinces that are travelled through on route to Goldsmith Street.

Fundraising has started in earnest with the PGM writing to all lodges asking for support. In addition a dedicated fundraising site has been started at :

www.virginmoneygiving/Robinwilson3

which can also be accessed through the 2018 Festival website www.notts2018festival.co.uk Support for the walk and regular updates can be obtained on twitter @NottsPGMWalk where we intend to post regular photographs as the walk progresses. Please support the PGM and his fellow walkers with this tremendous effort to raise money for the most worthwhile of causes the RMTGB and our Nottinghamshire 2018 Festival.

021

PROVINCIAL GRAND CHAPTER OF NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

FESTIVAL TURNING

Throughout the Province in 2013 Royal Arch Chapters have made a positive contribution to the RMTGB 2018 Festival. At the 31st of December 2013 a total of £15,000 had been achieved. This comprised of direct donations from some Chapters and individual donations made from many of the Companions. The use of the Gift Aid envelopes proved to be popular and it is evident that 25% from HMRC makes a remarkable increase to the value of all individual donations. The Royal Arch is committed to play its part in the RMTGB 2018 Festival and it has taken on the challenge to achieve the suggested amount of £70,000 as its contribution over the duration of the appeal. It has been encouraging to see the enthusiasm generated in fund raising for this well disserved charity both in the Craft and the Royal Arch. Obviously, each member of the Royal Arch is a member of the Craft and the dedication and generosity of those Masons is greatly appreciated by the leaders in the Province. Thank you for your charity and your support of the Royal Arch in this Province. Ken Lawmon Provincial Grand Charity Steward (Royal Arch)

WBro Charles Fellows of Clifton Lodge and WBro John Clarke of Magnus Lodge are producing hand turned ballpoint pens bearing Masonic emblems on the clips. An extended range includes Copper, Gunmetal and Bright Chrome in addition to the usual Gold. Following a request a substantial stock of Acacia been obtained, but other woods or acrylics are available. Price - £10.00 – each To place your order please contact Charles Fellows at : c.fellows@ntlworld.com

TUBE CHALLENGE FOR THE FESTIVAL

CLIFTON LODGE No 4753 HALL CYCLE RIDE Sunday 20th July a sponsored Cycle ride will take place in Nottinghamshire. It is the aim of our Brother Eric Lovatt to complete a route starting at Goldsmith Street and visiting Lodge premises in West Bridgford, Chilwell, Mansfield, and Newark before returning to Goldsmith Street all on the same day. Brethren are invited to sponsor this endeavour by guessing the total mileage that will be recorded on a cycle computer affixed to Eric’s Bike at £1 an entry. The main stop off points are indicated above but not the exact route. Entries should be to 2 decimal places (eg 65.34 miles) and there will be a prize of a Colour TV or similar electrical item up to a value of £150.00 for the closest entry. In the event of more than one correct entry the winners will be placed into a hat and a winner drawn, with the Judge’s decision being final. Brethren can donate more than £1 if they wish and have several guesses Your Lodge can retain 50% of money collected whilst the remainder should be forwarded to Clifton Lodge by 1st September 2014 Additional riders are welcome to accompany Eric but this is not a condition of entry, if you would like to join in then please get in touch. Full details and a sponsorship form available here : http://bit.ly/2018cycle W Bro Mike Sycamore Clifton Lodge No 4753 2018 Festival Steward

The Tube Challenge is the accepted name for the Guinness World Record attempt to visit all the stations on the London Underground network in the fastest time possible. Participants must pass through all stations on the system and may connect between them on foot, or by using other forms of public transport. The first recorded challenge took place in 1959. The current record was set in August 2013 by Geoff Marshall and Anthony Smith, completed the challenge in 16 hours, 20 minutes and 27 seconds. I will add my own name to the list of challengers on the Wed 16th April 2014 starting at Chesham on the Metropolitan Line and finishing some 16 hours or so later at Upminster on the District Line. Please support me at :

www.justgiving.com/cliftonTC Alternatively you can text RMTG53 ‘AMOUNT’ to 70070 where AMOUNT can be £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10 please remember to add gift aid when prompted.

022 2018 FESTIVAL TOUR OF EVERY PROVINCE IN ENGLAND AND WALES

s some of you may by now be aware, W Bro. Adrian Bellamy, of Temple Lodge 5196, is attempting to visit a lodge in every Province in England and Wales, to raise funds in support of the 2018 Festival for RMTGB. The tour requires a visit to a lodge in each of the Provinces around England and Wales, including far off visits in the Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney. The challenge involves driving around 13,000 miles, ferries, flights, not to mention the significant time commitment and the cost of attending 47 festive boards. It is hoped that the tour will be completed before the culmination of the 2018 festival. W Bro Adrian is very keen to seek the sponsorship of every Nottinghamshire mason, and if each gives just a little, the whole event will be worthwhile. You can donate in any of the following ways: 1. Visit the ‘justgiving’ page at www.justgiving.com/Provincialtour 2. By making an individual donation by cheque to Mr A Bellamy c/o 1 Butlers Field, Langar, Nottinghamshire NG13 9HS – all donations are being deposited into a dedicated RBS account, and statements will be made available to anyone who wishes at any time. 3. By making a group donation via your lodge, again to the above address. W Bro. Adrian would also welcome the company of Notts Masons on any of the visits. If you have a particular Province you would like to visit, please let Adrian know via email adrian.bellamy@constructionburo.co.uk and he will try and arrange a visit with you. It is always nice to have a full car on these long journeys. To date, eight visits have been completed, including Lincolnshire, Hertfordshire, West Kent, Hampshire & Isle of White, Derbyshire, Metropolitan Grand Lodge, Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire and Worcestershire, leaving just many more to go. All visits are published on the Notts Masons Facebook page, so tune in and be a part of it. Please, if you could pledge your support for this arduous challenge and make a donation today, it would be hugely appreciated, as would your participation….please see some of the images below from the visits to date

023

024

PROVINCIAL

COMMUNICATIONS Graham Wood

Pr. Communications Director External Publicity Press, Radio & TV firesafetybygraham.wood@ntlworld.com

Kevan Goddard

Pr. Web Director webmaster@nottinghamshiremasons.co.uk

Peter Olko

Assistant Web Master peter.olko@btclick.com

Steve Larimore

Secretary HIOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s committee Assistant to Neil Potter External Marketing Marquee stevelarimore@hotmail.co.uk

Dan Mottishaw

External Marketing Marquee danmottishaw@gmail.com

Adrian Crampton

HIO Newark amcrampton@hotmail.com

Graham Smith

HIO Worksop graham@themasonichall.info

Barry Lord

HIO Retford barry.lord@talktalk.net

025

Frank Noonan

Neil Potter

HIO West Bridgford franknoonan456@btinternet.com

Pr. Communications officer External Publicity Press, Radio & TV neilwpotter@hotmail.com

Tony Berrington

HIO Nottingham ajberrington@hotmail.co.uk

Neil Airey

Internal Communications Chairman Hall Information Oficers (HIOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Committee neilairey4243@gmail.com

Tony Owen

HIO Nottingham tony.owen@eon.com

Phil Scott

HIO Chilwell jp.scott@ntlworld.com

David Eades

HIO Mansfield eadesie@hotmail.com

Kevin Rolling

Editor Nottinghamshire Mason Magazine kevin.rolling@4316.co.uk

026

50 YEAR CERTIFICATES AN APPRECIATION OF W BRO DAVID LOVETT AND W BRO JOHN WALTON ON THE OCCASION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THEIR INITIATION ame Agnes Mellers Lodge recently D celebrated, at consecutive meetings, the 50 year anniversary’s of the Initiation of W Bro David Lovett and W Bro John Walton with the presentations to each of them of the Provincial Grand Masters 50 year Certificate.

On 7th November the Provincial Grand Master, R W Bro Robin Wilson presented David with his Certificate at the normal Lodge meeting, attended by many senior Brethren from the Province. David Lovett is the son of a builder, a Grand Officer whose untimely death robbed him of appointment as APGM in the Mark Degree, and who was himself the son of a Freemason. He attended Nottm High School of which he has since been one of its staunchest and most passionate supporters. In 1944 he joined his father in the family business, later becoming a director until he retired 1982 and during this time he was President of the Nottm Association of National Federation of Building Trades Employers, and Deputy Hon Treasurer from 1974 until retirement from the business.

In that year he was also elected WM of his lodge for the second time. 2 years earlier he had been installed into the Chair of Notts Installed Masters – quite early in life for most members. He was Exalted into Welbeck RA Chapter in 1967, becoming MEZ in 1978, and Prov Swd B in 1983, and ScN in 1987. Installed as MEZ of Notts First Principals in 1990, a rare distinction of being in the Chair of both these Past Masters’ Orders. He achieved Grand Rank in Craft in 1987, and RA in 1990, receiving promotion in each in 1997 and 2001 respectively. Being also a Member of Mark, Royal Ark Mariners, Rose Croix, Knights Templar, Red Cross and Allied Masonic Degrees

He has enjoyed a very active sporting life – rugby, football, hockey, tennis, badminton, and since 1965 addicted to golf. President of W Bridgford Hockey Club in 1964, Vice-President Beeston Hockey Club, and elected President of Notts Masonic Golf Association in 1986. To be elected to high office by peers is the greatest honour. With such a background, it was only to be expected that he should become a Freemason, and that he should join the Old Boys lodge attached to the High School. After Proposition by W Bro Arthur Willoughby, he took all 3 of his degrees in November of consecutive years – the done thing in those days to wait a year between, as it was to take the 18 years until installed as WM. His Ritual in the Chair was described as near perfection, so no surprise that he soon became a very efficient preceptor in the L of I, and then lodge DC. In recognition of service to the Lodge he was rewarded with acting Provincial rank of SD in 1977, followed in time by 3 more acting ranks culminating with SW in 1983.

he holds Grand Rank or its equivalent in each. But it is in Knights Templar and Red Cross of Constantine that he attained his highest honours, being leader of both from 1991 to 2001. Despite this heavy commitment elsewhere he has always remained loyal and active to his lodge. It felt very natural therefore that he should be invited to be WM for a third time in the year of its centenary in 2011. He threw himself into this role with great enthusiasm, and his organisation, industry and generosity produced an occasion long to remem-

ber. The following month, on 5th December, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W Bro Andrew Rainbow, presented John Walton with his Certificate. John Walton was born on 7 September 1929 in Kirkby in Ashfield to parents who owned the grocery and general store Edward Wilbourn, that being his grandfather. One of five children, having two brothers and two sisters, he was educated in Kirkby in Ashfield before going up to the Nottingham High School. Being the only one of the five children who expressed an interest in the grocery trade, his father arranged for him to be apprenticed to the best London had to offer and he duly went off to join Fortnum & Masons in Piccadilly. There he specialised in the wine trade side of their business. During his time at Fortnum & Masons, he was invited to take a qualifying exam at Vintners’ Hall which not only did he pass but actually won a first place which gave him a one month scholarship to study in Bordeaux under an acknowledged expert in the region. National service then intervened but the training by this time had a fortunate outcome. On being interviewed by the military as to what he did in civilian life, he replied “I’ve been tasting wine” They misheard and thought he’d said “I’ve been testing wine” so immediately put him to use in the mobile laboratory that travelled round testing petrol, presumably on the basis that wine and petroleum spirit had some chemical similarity! At the end of National Service, he returned to Fortnum & Mason’s for a one year refresher course before returning to Kirkby in Ashfield to take up E Wilbourn Ltd once again. Once there, he rapidly realised that such establishments might have a limited future against the national chains unless they had some unique advantage. He therefore established an independent National Wine Buying Group made up of like individuals and served as its chairman for 27 years. After the coal mine had closed at Kirkby in Ashfield there was a general economic downturn in the town which sadly left

027 UPDATE TO AN ARTICLE IN THE AUTUMN 2013 EDITION OF THIS MAGAZINE : NOTTINGHAMSHIRE’S OLDEST CANDIDATE - WHICH WAS SUBMITTED AND PRINTED IN GOOD FAITH - WAS INACCURATE AS MR HARRY LOCKWOOD, BORN 21ST APRIL 1916, WAS INITIATED 19TH APRIL 2000 IN TO STEWART HILL LODGE JUST TWO DAYS BEFORE HIS 84TH BIRTHDAY. him little option but to sell the wine business to Midland Wine and then the premises on the closure of E Wilbourn Ltd. During this long career John was proposed in to Dame Agnes Mellers Lodge by his lifelong friend, Peter Icke. All through his time in the Lodge, the social side has been very important to John and for many years he and Peter organised the ladies’ evenings at Grange Farm. He also held garden parties at his home in Ravenshead where he and Vivian were excellent hosts. After Peter died in 1995, John became treasurer of the Lodge, an office he still holds today. He was MEZ of the Abbey R A Chapter in 1983. In addition he has also served for a great many years as treasurer in both Mansfield Conclave in the Red Cross degree and Abbey Chapter Preceptory in Knights Templar, achieving Grand Rank or equivalent in both. The photograph shows AsstPrGM, Andrew Rainbow with John and David proudly displaying their certificates.

W. Bro. John Taylor

eceiving his Fifty Year Certificate at the October meeting of Old Worksopian Lodge No 6953. The PGM Rt W. Bro Robin Keith Wilson

spoke warmly to W. Bro John Taylor P Pr SGW – Certificate of Merit when presenting him with his 50 year Certificate. John has always been a very active Freemason taking on many Offices and

positions for numerous years. He is an accomplished speaker on many Masonic subject within Freemasonry and has gained a respected admiration for his lecture on Rt W Brother John Arthur Charles Cavendish Bentinck of Welbeck Abbey, 6th Duke of Portland and 7th PGM of Nottinghamshire. We all wish him well on achieving this incredible milestone on his Masonic Journey. Long may his enjoyment continue, as well as the gift of Masonic Knowledge that he brings with him. Bro. Martin C. Auckland

E Comp Tom Bond At a meeting on 14 October 2013, members and visitors of Woodthorpe Chapter were delighted to witness E Comp Tom Bond being presented with a certificate marking his 50 years membership of the Royal Arch. Comp Mark Holliday, the 2nd Provincial Grand Principal, presented the certificate. He said E Comp Bond had completed fifty years of Royal Arch Masonry with great distinction, which was a wonderful achievement of which he should feel rightly proud. On behalf of the Province, the ME Grand Superintendent, the members of Woodthorpe Chapter and the other Companions present at the meeting, E Comp Holliday congratulated E Comp Bond and thanked him very much for his contribution to Woodthorpe Chapter and the Province.

E Comp Bond was exalted in Woodthorpe Chapter on 8 April 1963 at the former Masonic Hall, Daybrook House. At that time the Chapter had 65 members and, to give it a little historical context, was the year of the Great Train Robbery, the Profumo affair, John F Kennedy’s assassination, the first broadcast of Dr Who and the release of the first Beatles album, ‘Please, Please Me’

Tom was installed as Z in February 1979, received his first Provincial appointment in 1984 and was promoted to PPrGScN in 1989. He was ADC & DC of the Chapter during the 80’s. E Comp Patrick Westwood

W. Bro. Ken Harrison Lloyd Report by W Bro B E Routledge, WM Shelford Priory Mark Lodge 818 Friday 25th October, 2013.

very special occasion at Shelford Priory Lodge, No 818 of Mark Master Masons, held in the Ionic Temple at Goldsmith Street, Nottingham. The Provincial Grand Master for the Nottinghamshire Province of Mark Master Masons, R W Bro P M Ball was in attendance, in his official capacity to carry out a most important and pleasurable duty during the evenings

Continued........

028 Continued........ proceedings. Also attending was the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, W Bro G B Tindall, along with a large retinue of Grand Mark Lodge Officers, in both appreciation and support of W Bro Ken Lloyds achievements. The Worshipful Master, accompanied by the lodge Officers and members, conducted a ceremony of Advancement for new initiate Bro Ian Hutchinson, who immediately joined in the spirit of this “happy degree” to the enjoyment of all. The Provincial Grand Master, R W Bro P M Ball then presented to W Bro Ken Lloyd, the longest serving member of the Lodge, a Grand Lodge Certificate to Mark 50 Years of service to Mark Masonry. WBro Ken had already received his 50 Year Certificates in both the Craft and Royal Arch Masonry, and as he succinctly said in his response “I have achieved the treble” just like his beloved Football Club Machester United – A rare achievement indeed ! What also made this special occasion “unique” was that W Bro Ken was advanced into Masonry on 25th October, 1963 – exactly 50 years to the day ! A copy of the Shelford Priory Lodge summons of that date day 50 years ago, was also presented to W Bro Ken, and the special Festive Board Menu was also reminiscent of that enjoyed all those years ago. W Bro Ken was Worshipful Master of Shelford Priory Lodge in 1976 and is still an active Officer of the Lodge today, being Registrar of Marks. W Bro Ken has clearly

called Cook Hammond and Kell, in the accounts department. Whilst in this employ, he also attended King’s College University to study law. A change of employment came when he went to work in the Town Clerk’s Department for and in the City of Westminster, London. From there, he moved to work for the Islington Borough Council in 1939, where he also started his Articles to become a solicitor. Leslie was then called up into the army for the Second World War, which with his qualifications enabled him to enjoy the rank of Warrant Officer Class 1. This conscription saw Leslie serve for approximately six years in the Medical Corp, taking him through Africa, Italy and Austria, from where he was demobbed in 1945. On return to civi street, he then took

up his life again and completed his Articles and law exams, and gained his Bachelor of Laws Degree, thus providing him with his qualifications to be a solicitor.

orn 16th April 1916 in Greenwich, London. Attended Blackheath Elementary School and then progressed to Greenwich Modern School, where in his later years he became Head Boy.

Taking this qualification, he then commenced work at Leyton Council. From there, he moved to Nuneaton as Deputy Town Clerk, and then again on to Hampstead Borough Council, also as Deputy Town Clerk. These three councils then amalgamated, calling themselves Camden Borough Council, and Leslie then became the Deputy Town Clerk of the much larger unit, which of course brought on much more responsibilty. It was from this position that Leslie retired in 1966.

On leaving school at the age of 16, he started his working life with a firm

He married his lovely wife, Jean, whilst he was working at Nuneaton, and

“Marked Well”

W. Bro. Leslie Spencer

they were blessed with having three sons. Regrettably, two of his sons have predeceased him, one at the age of 39, and the other at the age of 52, both as a result of cancer. His remaining son retired this year from being a Naval Architect, working for and being on the Senior Staff of American Shipping, being the equivalent of Britain’s own world renown Lloyds Shipping. Leslie is the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren, ( six girls and two boys ). He proudly boasts that the eldest six have all obtained at least one university degree (two have two), and have secured employment as follows according to age......Doctor ....Surveyor ...Banker two financial or business consultants and one involved in research for the cure of cancer in young children. The remaining two grandchildren are not, as yet, old enough to go to university ! Leslie moved to Nottingham in the late 60’s to be closer to his family, who were in this area, and, to find accommodation that was more suited to his wife’s requirements at that time. His wife Jean was a very keen player of golf, tennis and also enjoyed playing bridge. She was a member of Beeston Fields Golf Club. Sadly she passed away on the 19th October 2005, at the age of 81. Leslie was initiated into freemasonry on the 1st April, 1951, into the PRO DEO ET PATRIA LODGE No.4425. (Certificate seen), and became Master in the term 1967/68. Having seen a recent summons, it is no surprise, that he is one of only three honorary members of that Lodge, of which I am sure he was proud to call his Mother Lodge. Moreover, it was also refreshing to see recent correspondence from a Past Master, around the period of his mastership that still keeps in touch with him. Surely a sign that his Mother Lodge and his peers, still hold him in high regard, and knowing the man, this is fully justified. On his arrival in Nottingham, he

029 wished to continue his Masonic involvement, and it has been a pleasure to see him as a regular attender at the Bentinck Lodge since he joined us. As the Lodge Almoner, and a freemason of some twenty five years, I can sincerely say, that this man, like so many of his early twentieth century generation, is a true gentleman, and seldom seen in today’s modern society. It has been a pleasure to be associated with, and know him, and sincerely hope that he receives a telegram from the Queen.

W.Bro Cyril Morris On 10th February 1964, local man Cyril Morris became a Freemason at Worksop Masonic Hall, so this last Monday 10th February 2014 was exactly 50 years to the day when Cyril, now 89 years of Crabtree Park, Worksop received a 50year Certificate from Assistant Provincial Grand Master Philip Marshall during a special Ceremony held at Worksop

Masonic Hall. Aged 14 Cyril commenced an engineering apprenticeship with BTH at Chesterfield before Military Service in 1943 saw him enter the Royal Air Force serving in India and Pakistan.

In addition Cyril has written three books regarding Freemasonry within Worksop. Graham Smith Worksop Masonic HIO

After his military service concluded he returned to engineering and was transferred to Harworth Glass Bulbs specializing in Ribbon Machines. He remembers traveling to America three times on the Queen Mary to assist with engineering projects before the commencement of transatlantic flights which he later used. Cyril left glass Bulbs in 1980 becoming a partner in Shepherds Photography Shop on Bridge Street, Worksop until his retirement in 2000. Within Freemasonry Cyril, a quietly spoken, hugely experienced and highly respected individual served in many capacities during years of hard work. In 2000 he was honoured with Provincial Grand Masters Certificate of Merit recognising all these enormous efforts.

Left WBro. Cyril Morris, Centre WM Bro. Charles Richard Martin, Right Assistant Provincial Grand Master Philip Marshal

ARTICLE FROM THE DAILY TELEGRAPH 26 FEB 2014

The Grand Lodge argued that its charitable giving benefits the public in general:- not just Masons - and sought a VAT rebate on subscriptions paid by its members over more than 20years.

After resistance from Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, Judge Hellier, sitting in the Tax Chamber of the first tier tribunal, ruled that Freemasons’ “hope or expectation” that The Grand Charity would assist them and their families in times of need meant their donations had ah element of “self-insurance” and “personal benefit”.

REEMASONS will be denied a multi-million pound tax break after a judge ruled that their governing body was not sufficiently “philanthropic’’ to be exempt from VAT, despite being the second largest charitable donor in the country. The United Grand Lodge of England, which in 2010 donated more than £82 million to good causes, was told that its emphasis on caring for fellow masons meant its giving was not “wholly philanthropic”. Judge Charles Hellier noted, that only between 25 and 30per cent of the Grand Lodge’s charity donations go to causes with no Masonic connections. “To the extent that monies were paid with the hope or expectation of self-insurance, their payment does not seem to us to be, an act of philanthropy,” he ruled. The United Grand Lodge of England represents, about 250,000 Freemasons, belonging to 8,000 lodges. In 2010 it gave money to organisations including the Royal College of Surgeons, Help the Hospices, the Red Cross and the Air Ambulance Service. Each of its members pays at least £14 a year into Freemasonry’s “Grand Charityt, and are sworn to the pursuit of truth, “brotherly love” and civic duty.

The Grand Lodge argued that Freemasonry’s “peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols” is driven by principles of high moral standards, charitable giving and positive community involvement, it said its “aims of philosophical, philanthropic and civic nature” benefited the public in general and all Masons were expected to treat giving, truth and brotherly love as “a personal rule of life”. Belief in a supreme being” is a requirement for all Freemasons. Quentin Humberstone, the Grand Lodge Treasurer, the rituals for which Freemasonry is most famous were nowadays “generally something for the few”. Judge Hellier said that, despite the craft’s charitable giving, the promotion of Freemasonry remained one of its primary objectives. He said its emphasis on mutual benevolence could not be regarded as “wholly philanthropic”. A Daily Telegraph Reporter

030

BEESTON

LODGE

REPORTER: Phil Scott (Chilwell HIO)

THE MEMBERS OF BEESTON LODGE 6103 WHO MEET AT CHILWELL HALL, HAVE BEEN VERY ACTIVE OVER THE LAST YEAR TAKING PART IN SEVERAL EVENTS ORGANISED BY THEIR NEWLY FORMED SOCIAL COMMITTEE.

he committee comprises a representative group of Lodge Officers and Ladies whose purpose is to promote social cohesion of Brethren, their families and friends outside the normal Lodge masonic business through the organisation of fun social activities suitable for all.

lay Pigeon Shoot, Lumb Farm Ripley 8th September 2013 This event attracted 38 brethren, friends and family from several lodges. The shoot was organised in conjunction with Brother David Spencer and other members of his clay shooting club at the Lumb Farm hotel near Ripley.

Events are often thrown open to members of other lodges and their families so the circle of lodge friends can grow further and so that money can be raised for charities close to the heart of Beeston Lodge and also for the 2018 festival. The make-up of the committee is fluid and brethren who have particular interests or hobbies that others might enjoy are encouraged to offer their expertise in organising events. Events organised to date : The annual Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Installation Meal, Officers Night Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Evening Christmas Shopping trip to London finishing with a visit to the Tower of London to see the Ceremony of the Keys Christmas Meal and caberet at Lakeside restaurant Burns Night at Chilwell Hall Dog Racing Evening at Nottingham Dogs The Beeston Lodge Petanque Challenge Clay Pigeon Shoot at Lumb Farm, Ripley These events have been most enjoyable and very well attended. The formation of a lodge social committee seems to be working very well and the lodge can heartily recommend the idea to other lodges. We already have a full calendar of events running through the forthcoming season which we will publicise to other lodges through this magazine, the Provincial Website, Facebook page and through Hall Information Officers.

After a cup of coffee and a giant torpedo bacon roll at the hotel, shooters said a temporary farewell to non-shooting partners, who went on an excursion to the local Denby pottery retail outlet. After being split into manageable sized groups the shooters were put under the expert care of shooting club members and after being issued with ear protection, were taken to the first of seven shooting stations. After an introduction to the gun, a short safety message, and a couple of practice shots the fun began. The shooting stations provided a range of scenarios emulating birds flying across, toward and from behind the shooter. The clays were fired from each station in pairs with variable flights and time gaps. A favourite was the bird and hopping rabbit station where a clay was rolled along a mat to a ski jump, emulating a bird breaking from cover at the same time as a rabbit running along and jumping in the air.

031

etanque Challenge. This very successful event saw 26 players competing for the Beeston Lodge Petanque Challenge shield. The event was run on several of the 36 pistes at the Nottingham City Petanque Club. Especial thanks go to W.Bro. Peter and Pat Morley for organising this with the club and to the Ladies on the Beeston Lodge social committee for their hard work baking scones and providing the cream teas served at the event. In total £306 was raised, £225 from ticket sales and £81 from the raffle

The event concluded with a presentation of trophies:Highest Scoring Shooter of the day: Simon Morgan Highest Scoring Novice Shooter: Paul Dickerson Highest Scoring Lady Shooter: Ruth Hayfield Youngest Shooter: Louis Gee (son of Francis Gee) A small draw was run in aid of the 2018 Festival with the chance for one lucky shooter to win their event fee back. After this most enjoyable event, many stayed on to enjoy a hearty Sunday lunch at the hotel. All agreed that they couldn’t wait for this event to be repeated.

032

ST. GILES

LODGE 600TH MEETING 27 FEBRUARY 2014

he story of St. Giles Lodge No. 4316 began with a number of Freemasons who were amongst the congregation of the Parish Church of St. Giles in West Bridgford, and who belonged to the Welbeck, Hayman, Rufford, Thoresby and Bentink Lodges of Nottinghamshire, and â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Royal Alfred Lodge in Derbyshire, yes there is a Derbyshire connection (the less said about that the better). Their interests in the Church, and Masonry, made the step leading to forming a new Lodge to be named after that Church where they worshipped a simple one. The St. Giles Lodge is 93 years old, and I think it is important to know where we came from, so let's look first at our family tree and pedigree. We have one daughter, Edwalton Lodge, at 46 she's just a year older than me. Our mother lodge, Welbeck, still going strong at 112 years old. We have five sister lodges Pinner, Bentink, Fairham, Charity and Walesby Forrest, and I can happily report that they are all alive and well. Our Grandmother is Southwell Lodge, a sprightly young thing at 142 years old with a healthy membership. And now to our Great Grandmother, the head of the family and originator of the dynasty, Newstead lodge No. 47, still with us at the grand old age of 251. The warrant of St. Giles Lodge, was issued on 13th June 1921. To get a feeling of what the world was like when the Grand Master signed that document, I turned to the Times archive for that day. Amongst the adverts for Euthymol Toothpaste (which keeps the mouth healthy) and State Express Triple 5 cigarettes (which have unvarying quality and are good for your health) I found that not much has changed. One article stood out to reinforce this, entitled 'Cricket and Cheerfulness' from 13th of June - The play at Lord's on Saturday [against Australia] in the 2nd Test Match, was a bitter disappointment to lovers of English cricket. All over the country the match has aroused an extraordinary amount of interest. The crowd that flocked to St. John's Wood long before the gates opened, easily the biggest in the history of the ground, went there in good spirit; in spite of what happened last winter in Australia, they hoped that, at the headquarters of the game, the English Eleven would make a better showing than it did at Trent Bridge. When they began to drift away, as the first Australian batsmen rapidly overhauled the English first innings total, their faces wore a very different look. Following an awful tour of Australia, England were 187 all out, with the visitors 191 for three wickets. I can only imagine that the Grand Master started his day by signing our warrant with joy in his heart, only to be a rather less happy when he heard the cricket score on the way home.

St Giles Lodge Officers 2014 - 5

Following the issuing of the warrant in June the Lodge was consecrated at a meeting in West Bridgford on Wednesday 12th of October 1921 by the Deputy Grand Master of Nottinghamshire, the Very Worshipful Brother Reverend H. T. Hayman. This was followed by the Installation of the first Master, WBro. J. A. Simons. The officers of the sponsoring Lodge, Welbeck, opened and the consecrating officer then entered the Lodge escorted by many Provincial Grand Lodge Officers. At the meeting there were 18 Founder and 3 Honorary Members, with another 11 joining a couple of weeks later on the 27th of October when two candidates were Initiated. The Lodge thus had its foundations well and truly laid, and at the end of October 1921 there were 34 members. In order to build up the Lodge a number of emergency meetings were held in the early years, and often two ceremonies were performed in one evening. In the 1923-24 session W. Bro. J. E. Harding created a record by initiating ten brethren and raising eight. That record still stands, but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure it is a challenge that our Senior Warden will accept for his forthcoming year in the Chair !! Sadly no minutes of the first meetings exist, so again I turned to the Times for inspiration, only to find yet another familiar sounding story from the Weather Correspondent. - The heavy rain and thunder that were experienced in London that night also visited Central England. A very violent storm which broke over Nottinghamshire did considerable damage in some districts: at East Kirby streets were flooded to a depth of 3 feet, while at Mansfield thoroughfares were rendered temporarily, almost impassable. So, in summary, during 1921 we lost the cricket to the Australians, it was unseasonably wet, and there was local flooding in Mansfield. 93 years later and the stories in the Times haven't changed at all! The early years of the Lodge are not well documented, the next information we have is a photograph taken on the 6th

033 July 1922 where all of the Founders, along with wives and girlfriends, are pictured on a trip to Welbeck Abbey. Remarkably I discovered this picture about 5 years ago for sale on eBay….. The Brethren all seem to be having a great day out. In 1934, the Brethren strengthened their links with the Church that gave them their name, and presented an Oak screen for the South Porch of the Church, 400 Brethren attended a service when the screen was dedicated. The screen is still in the Church. Although many illustrious and decorated Brethren have been members of St. Giles there is one little known member who should be far more famous than he actually is. A Founder Member Bro. F. G. Garton who became Master in 1925 was the original inventor of HP Sauce. Bro. Fredrick was a Nottingham grocer born in 1862. He registered the name of the sauce he had been producing for some years in 1895 when he heard that a restaurant in the Houses of Parliament was serving it. Sadly he sold the recipe, and the HP brand, for the sum of £150 (and the settlement of unpaid bills) to his vinegar supplier Edwin Moore. Moore, who was the founder of the Midlands Vinegar Company, subsequently launched HP Sauce in 1903 and Bro. Garton never received the recognition he truly deserved.

worked out, is a 33% discount! And as I, and the Worshipful Master, both live slightly over 11 miles from West Bridgord I would like to immediately propose that we reinstate this long forgotten bylaw. Finally from the minutes, in the correspondence, there is record of a letter received from Provincial Grand Lodge announcing the appointment of the RT. Hon. The Viscount Galway, PC, GCMG, DSO, OBE to be the Provincial Grand Master for Nottinghamshire. When you look at the list of past PGM’s shown in the Nottinghamshire Yearbook, the Viscount Galway stands out by having the longest title of them all, so I looked him up - Sir George Vere Arundell Monckton-Arundell Galway the 8th Viscount, born 1882 and educated at Eton and Oxford. Failing in a Parliamentary bid in 1910 he turned to a career in the army and rose to the rank of Colonel-Commandant of the Life Guards, becoming Governor General for New Zealand, and also the Most Worshipful Provincial Grand Master for that country. Returning to England he was appointed PGM of Nottinghamshire. Sadly he died suddenly in March 1943 after a very short time as our PGM. His obituary in the Times archive, talks of his distinguished military career, but not his connection with Freemasonry, of which he must surely have been very proud. Returning to the minutes, the WM received greetings from the visitors and members of his own lodge. The lodge was closed in ancient form and harmony at 6:45pm. The charity bag raised £1 5s 1d (£162 in today's money).

Jumping forward 20 years, when the papers full of the war effort, we find the oldest remaining minutes of the Lodge. They are of the 138th regular meeting held at West Bridgford on Thursday, 24 April 1941 - The Lodge was opened St. Giles is a wonderful Lodge, we should feel proud of our at 5:35pm by the W.M. Bro. T. H. history, and confidently look Fenton, and just as this evening, a towards the future knowing Our next meeting, Thursday 27th March, will be 2nd degree took place. However, that our numbers are growing a follow-on-Raising – Tyling at 4.30pm for the 1st what really caught my eye in these ceremony, Calling Off at 5.40pm for a comfort break again. There were 34 members minutes was towards the end of the and Calling On at 6pm for the 2nd ceremony and to in 1921, 76 in 1970, and we meeting when W.Bro. H. Tomkins admit further members and guests. An extra attrac- are now returning to strength gave notice of motion to alter the tion will be that of a Pr. Orator presenting an interac- with 52 today and new By-Laws of the Lodge as follows: The tive lecture, starting at 6pm in the Bridge Temple to Initiates joining us every year. annual subscription including all our newer members and guests (if they wish) during Brethren, taking those words refreshment, the with exception of from the ritual of the Installathe time they would have been excluded from the the installation banquet, shall be 3 tion ceremony that we hear ceremony. Please contact Sec. W.Bro David Left Guineas and shall be due in October each October; it is true to say davidleft@tiscali.co.uk - if you would like to attend each year. Now in light of our recent that the Warrant of our Lodge Dining costs £25 incl. wine discussions regarding Lodge fees has been, for many years, this I found very interesting, three entrusted to the hands of very guineas sounds quite a bargain doesn't it? Especially if it worthy and distinguished individuals, and it has lost none of includes all 'refreshment' for the year, which I'm assuming is it's former splendour. a free bar! There is only one Founders Jewel left, reclaimed (again from But how much would this be today? Well, To bring the value eBay!) and restored a few years ago, and now proudly worn of 3 guineas up to date you need to take the value and multi- by the WM each year as reminder of our history. But a Lodge ply it by the RPI every year from 1941 to 2014. I can reveal the is not just a name, it is created by the hundreds of men who adjusted figure is £133, so it turn's out that my fellow auditor have passed through its doors, benefitted from its teaching W.Bro Chris Goodman’s calculations for the new subscrip- and the history created by them. It brings people together, tions, 73 years later, are absolutely spot on - but only if he and creates friends for life and we are all joined by it. subsidises the free bar….. I was understandably excited by this revelation; but hold on a minute, as an RPI conversion To close I think we should take a moment to remember our isn't really very accurate we should more correctly be adjustfounders to whom we owe so much, without them we would ing our 3 guineas on the basis of average earnings. Using this not have this special Lodge that binds us together as brothindex the annual fees are actually £394 in today’s terms, so it ers, may I ask you all to stand just for a moment while I read really does look as though we are getting a good deal, even their names......... if Chris doesn’t subsidise the drinks. But, it get's even betBrethren, we will remember them, and we thank them, for ter, the minutes go on to say: For members residing outside this Lodge that they formed, which has been passed safely a 10 miles radius of West Bridgford the subscription shall through the years to us today. be 2 Guineas. That Brethren is, as I'm sure you have already W.Bro Philip Morris

034

In the photo from left to right are the band members of

“Ruddington Rascals”: -

E Comp Steve Greenfield, First Principal of Welbeck Chapter and former lead singer of the very successful band Sons & Lovers, E Comp Peter Ball PGStB, Mr Tony Ready the Grand Superintendent’s guitar buddy and the ME Grand Superintendent.

035

ROYAL ARCH

BICENTENARY REPORTER: Julian Townsend

Nottinghamshire celebrates Supreme Grand Chapter’s Bicentenary at Great Queen Street and Goldsmith Street

n 16 October, the ME Grand Superintendent, E Comp Richard Gutteridge, led 21 members of the Province to the Bicentenary celebrations to mark the formal recognition of the Holy Royal Arch as part of pure antient Masonry. They travelled by car, train and coach to be at Great Queen Street for the start of proceedings at 11.00am.

Masonry Triumphant” by E Comp J.M.Hamill, PGSwdB, an Oration by E Comp the Rev Dr J.R.H. Railton, PGSwdB, and addresses by the First Grand Principal of Scotland and the Grand King of Ireland. All speeches are available in full at http://www.freemasonrytoday.com/ugle-sgc/supremegrand-chapter/itemlist/category/143-speeches

The day started with a Convocation of Metropolitan Grand Stewards Chapter, No. 9812, in which a demonstration of the Ceremony of Exaltation, using the changes authorised in 2004, was given in an exemplary manner. This was followed by luncheon either in the Grand Connaught Rooms, presided over by the ME Pro First Grand Principal, or at Le Deuxieme in Covent Garden.

The celebrations ended with a grand dinner at the Savoy Hotel, presided over by the ME The First Grand Principal. The ME Grand Superintendent was delighted by the support from Nottinghamshire Companions on the day and expressed his gratitude to E Comp David Scully, PrGSCE, for making the arrangements.

In the afternoon, the ME The First Grand Principal, HRH The Duke of Kent, KG presided over the Convocation of Supreme Grand Chapter. He particularly mentioned the success of the Royal Arch Masons 2013 Bicentenary Appeal for the Royal College of Surgeons and stated how impressed he was to hear about the tremendous support that the companions had given to the Appeal. Although he had said in April that the Appeal would remain open until the end of the year he was pleased to announce that the amount donated and pledged so far was £2m. This exceeded expectations and he congratulated all companions. In addition to the ME The First Grand Principal’s address there was an historical presentation entitled “Pure Antient

Back in Nottingham on 1 November the Grand Superintendent hosted a ‘strictly no ties’ party at the Belgrave Rooms. Before the meal, Companions and their wives enjoyed the thrills of a ‘casino’, courtesy of Amber Valley & Ripley Lions, and magic from Students Union Magic Nottingham University. Nottingham Youth Jazz Orchestra and a female vocal duo, “Ruby Sky”, provided the musical entertainment. The evening was further enhanced by a performance from “Ruddington Rascals”, featuring the ME Grand Superintendent and E Comp Peter Ball, Provincial Grand Master of the Mark Degree. The Grand Superintendent thanked all those who had contributed to such an enjoyable evening, particularly E Comp Bill Robbins.

036

CHARITABLE

DONATIONS The Mansfield Charity Stewards` annual "Swimathon"

eld at the Water Meadows swimming baths at Mansfield raised £2436.00 for the British Red Cross local emergency response unit. Attached is a photograph showing W.Bro Michael Bull (Chairman) presenting the £2436.00 to Alex Gadsby the local Fund Administrator of the British Red Cross, which took place at the Masonic Hall Mansfield. Also pictured is W.Bro Ken Purslow who was the main organisor of the Swimathon.

At the Festive Board which followed, we were joined by our Principal Guest, Michael Tansley-Thomas, acting Manager of Headway at Nottingham. It was unfortunate that our esteemed Brother RW Bro Mike Gutteridge was unable to be present due to ill-health but RW Bro Peter Ball was delighted to present a further cheque in the sum of £35,000 to Mr Tansley-Thomas. The Brethren of the Mark Province have been magnificent in their generosity in support of this most worthy cause and many Brethren of other Orders have joined with their contributions. To everyone concerned, the Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro Peter Ball is absolutely delighted at the response and the support shown by the Brethren and wishes for me to extend his appreciation to you all. In his reply, Mr Tansley-Thomas expressed his gratitude for the amount donated to Headway. Apparently Headway have a regional structure throughout the country and because of the work having been done following the previous donation, the Nottingham Region is being held up by them as a flagship for the other Regions to emulate. At this time of misfortune to the outstanding former World Champion Motor Racing Driver, Michael Schumacher, there is a strong focus on the work of Headway and it is believed that this may well highlight still further the out-

The Mark ‘Headway’ Appeal

he ‘Headway Appeal’ was launched at the Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Mark Lodge in March, 2011, by the then Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Michael J. Gutteridge after he had had personal experience of the good work done by that charitable organisation. The present Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro Peter M. Ball has continued to lead the support of the Province and during 2012 made an interim presentation of £30,250. This was gratefully received and has already provided accommodation and equipment for the treatment of persons with brain injuries. At the Meeting of the Arthur Morley Custance Lodge of Installed Mark Masters No 1808 held at West Bridgford on Friday 3rd January, 2014, approximately sixty Brethren received a most illuminating and interesting lecture, delivered by V.W. Bro Neil Hartburn P.G.J.O. of the neighbouring Mark Province of Derbyshire, on the subject of where the Mark Degree is placed in the Masonic Structure.

standing work being done by the Headway Organisation. You will see that from the initial suggestion of a £60,000 donation, already £65,250 has been presented and any Lodges still desirous of fund raising or finalising any Lodge projects are welcome to make further donations through the Notts Provincial Mark Benevolent Fund. Geoff Tindall Dep. PGM (Mark)

037 beer on the way. Linda said “ It was a fantastic experience and I’m looking forward to competing again in 2014”.

Nuthall Temple donates £3663 to Alzheimer’s Research UK.

t their traditional and merry Christmas meal, W Bro Paul Harrison, the Master of Nuthall Temple Lodge 6011, presented a cheque for £3663 to Mr Mick Moody of Alzheimer’s Research UK.

Report by Colin Mackie

Christian Orders Carol Service

he annual Combined Christian Orders Carol Service held at the St. Andrew’s with Castle Gate Church on Friday the 20th December 2013 raised £1300 for the Revd Ian Wiseman, to support his project ‘Sociedade Musical Tianguaense – Orquestra Filarmônica Dr. Edvaldo Moita’ which is to assist Brazilian children and teenagers at risk of marginalisation and exploitation through the drug trade and sex trafficking by the purchasing of musical instruments. Mr Moody gave a very interesting presentation to the Lodge members and their guests about the work of the organisation and of the beneficial assistance he had personally received from them. He thanked the Lodge for the warmth with which he had been greeted and offered his assistance to anyone who wished to contact him for advice or information on 01636 678309. Pictured left to right are W Bro Paul Harrison, Mr Mick Moody of Alzheimer’s Research UK and Mrs Harrison.

All those attending, donating and contributing to what was a very enjoyable and successful evening are to be congratulated on raising such a magnificent sum in the true spirit of Christmas and masonry. On Wednesday the 19th February 2014 a presentation was made to the Revd Wiseman at the Masonic Hall, Goldsmith Street by representatives of the three Christian Orders.

The Great North Run 2013

he photo shows Woodthorpe Lodge’s WBro. Chris Colclough with his wife Linda and a work colleague after successfully completing the 13.1 mile Great North Run in very creditable times. Chris finished in 1 hour 51 mins and Linda 2hrs 30mins and raised £1,300 for the Bluebell Childrens Hospice. So well done to them. The event was organised by BUPA with 52,00 people entering the race, and also attracted elite runners like Mo Farrah. Linda and Chris were amazed at the support given by the Newcastle and South Shields Communities along the route, giving out orange pieces, grapes, biscuits and even

From the left: E. Kt. Jim Crossley (Prov. Vice Chancellor – KT) Rt. E. Kt. Andrew Rainbow (Prov. Prior - KT) The Revd Ian Wiseman Rt. Ill. Kt. Steve Mather (Intendant General - RCC) Ill. Bro. Keith Rutherford (District Recorder - RC)

038

OUTWARD BOUND TRUST ABERDOVEY

ost members of the Province will remember that, in November 2010, the Provincial Grand Master presented a cheque to representatives of the Nottingham branch of the Outward Bound Trust to fund the construction of a log cabin for use by the Trust at its centre in Aberdovey, on the west coast of Wales. The occasion was the annual presentation of donations to a wide variety of charities and organisations which regularly total over £125,000; our gift would enable the Trust to replace a hut which had been used for many years and which was now too dilapidated even for the hardy youngsters on the OB courses! Since then, the OBT has been challenged by many obstacles and other difficulties in the way of completing the project, including being required to negotiate a formal right of way along a forestry track they had used for decades, and to obtain planning permission from an authority which required them to provide electricity, running water and other comforts alien to the concept of a rugged OB course! Eventually, however, they were able to start work, which involved the felling of a number of trees in the surrounding forest, transporting them to Aberystwyth, where they were shaped and assembled before being dismantled and carried back to the mountainside above Aberdovey. Here, at the end of a very long and winding forest track, the logs were re-assembled to form a truly magnificent and very substantial cabin. A close inspection failed to discover any sign of nails or screws securing one log to another – “they fitted together with such exactness”. In October last year the Provincial Grand Master and his wife Margaret accepted an invitation to travel to Aberdovey to perform the official opening ceremony and to unveil a plaque on the front of the cabin acknowledging the donation made by the Freemasons of Nottinghamshire which had enabled the cabin to be constructed and erected. This cabin now serves youngsters from all over the world who come to the Centre in great numbers, and who can now see for themselves the generosity which the members of this Province have shown to the character – building experience which a course at Aberdovey provides

to them, and exemplifies the investment of our members in the welfare of youngsters for generations to come. Robin Wilson Provincial Grand Master

039

THE “JOHN F MORTIMER”, D 768

hen W Bro John Mortimer died in September 2008 he left several significant legacies to his favourite charities, and the residue of his estate to the Provincial Grand Master – not the PGM personally (!), but with the instruction that he should use it to benefit charities both masonic and non-masonic. The residue amounted to almost £1 million, which has subsequently been invested, and from which the interest (amounting to about £30,000 per year) forms part of the donations distributed in November / December each year. One of Bro John’s favourite charities was the RNLI, to which he left £20,000 in his will; the PGM was able to persuade the RNLI to agree to accept a further £11,000 on condition that it be added to the original legacy and used to finance an

SNFC

South Notts Freemasons for Charity

he South Notts Freemasons for Charity recently celebrated their first full year in existence having raised over £5000 for local charities. The idea is a simple one, whereby a joint charity committee was set up by Lodges meeting at West Bridgford Masonic Hall to promote fellowship between Lodges, pool resources, jointly organise events, raise money for charitable donations and promote Freemasonry in the local area. It was on a dark snow ridden winter night last year, representatives of each of the participating Lodges met to hear a presentation from the Joint Charity Committee in Mansfield who have been established for nearly twenty and consisted of 13 Lodges in the North of the Province. All present thought it was a good idea, reported back their respective Lodges and it was then the SNFC was born. Since its inception the initiative has gone from strength to strength with social events being organised such as Race Nights involving friend and family, participation and help being provided for many fund raising days and the collection of tons of tins for The Friary, a locally based shelter in West Bridgford.

inflatable inshore lifeboat which would carry the name of its benefactor. The PGM has recently been informed that the RNLI is now ready to start building the lifeboat, and he has accepted an invitation to visit the Inshore Lifeboat Centre at East Cowes on the Isle of Wight to see the boat under construction and to be given a tour of the ILC. It is expected that the lifeboat will be ready to be launched during this summer, and will be stationed at Workington, in Cumbria. The PGM has been invited to attend the dedication of the lifeboat, and to choose the hymns to be sung at the service, before handing over the lifeboat into the care of the RNLI, at which point it will be officially named and launched. The connection with Nottinghamshire Freemasonry will be acknowledged by putting on display in the boathouse a plaque bearing the designation “John F Mortimer, Nottinghamshire Freemason”, with the Square & Compasses emblem alongside. Details of the launching ceremony will be posted on the Provincial website as soon as they become available. Anyone wishing to join the PGM for this memorable and significant ceremony should contact the Provincial office; depending on numbers, transport may be arranged. Robin Wilson

The year culminated with the organisation of a sponsored swim on behalf of the DOPPLER Appeal, with swimmers from around the county putting in many miles at Nottingham High School Swimming Pool and the SNFC representatives fighting off the freezing temperatures whilst marshalling the event.

SWIMATHON

The committee has supported not only Charities such as TLC and the Doppler Appeal but have also supplied marshals for A Fair for Children with Disabilities. There are many reciprocal visits planned between the West Bridgford Lodges over the coming months and no doubt more suggestions for future events at the Festive Boards! The future looks bright for SNFC and to quote a popular song “Things can only get better” with the next event coming very soon – watch this space…or better still - if you are a member of a Lodge meeting at West Bridgford - JOIN US ! - simply email our Secretary to be added to our mail-outs. SNFC Committee details: Secretary: Paul Vale Chairman: Kevin Rolling Treasurer: Kevin Hyland Ass’ Treasurer: Ron Nutall WB Lodges Charity Stewards

pkvale@hotmail.co.uk kevin.rolling@4316.co.uk kevin.hyland@sjpp.co.uk r.nuttall1@ntlworld.com

040

BILBOROUGH TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB

’d like to tell you a little about the club which was formed in 2007 by my father Colin Lee and I. Originally one senior team which we entered into the Midland Amateur Alliance league, we soon moved into the Nottinghamshire Senior league (NSL) which we are still currently in. We have progressed up the NSL to the top senior division, we added an u16s two years ago which we continued into the u18s Notts Youth league. This year we formed an u19s to give our young adults progression. My dad and I were joined in 2009 by Winston Blackwood and his wife Claudia and then in 2010 Andrew Lord, a friend from 30 years ago, joined the club and we created an u13s which Andrew runs. Between us we started to make the club move forward with recognition throughout Nottingham for our style of football and values, the u13s won their league and reached the cup final. We also created an academy side last season which also reached the cup final in its first season with many of our junior players being involved. We strongly believe in our youngsters and have pushed on again this close season to form 7 teams: u12s; u13s; u14s; u19s; 1st Team; 1st Reserves and Sunday Seniors. In addition we have formed a company called NG Link, working with youngsters from under privileged backgrounds to try and involve them in football. It’s early days with this project but we are making some excellent contacts to help us keep pushing our club forward, this is mainly to do with the people who work as volunteers within the club, a fantastic set of people they are who give up their time to help wherever they can. As you can appreciate this comes at a cost and formerly we have relied heavily on Colin who has put much of his own money into the club. I would personally like to take this opportunity to thank you for your kind financial support for the u13 team strip. Steven Lee Chairman Bilborough Town Football Club

BYRON LODGE NO. 4041 SUPPORTING NIDAS

Bro Sunderland the Worshipful Master of Byron Lodge 4041 presenting a cheque to Lisa from NIDAS. (Nottinghamshire Independent Domestic Abuse Services) The cheque amount was for £1400.00 and was raised at his and his good lady Jennifer’s recent ladies evening. NIDAS is a small, friendly, independent, local charity who are passionate about empowering women and children helping

them feel safe, supported and that they can make changes to be free from domestic abuse. NIDAS has a strong heritage and background in domestic abuse with over 24 years’ experience in the Mansfield and Ashfield areas. The money has been earmarked for their work in focusing on supporting Children and Young People between the ages of 5 and 25. WBro Shawn and Jennifer have been asked to attend a childrens social event which is taking place early next year and will be able to see the benefit this donation has made. If you require any further information on this charity, please don’t hesitate to contact WBro Shawn on: 07772 695359 R Sunderland

Photo - the u13 Team in their new strip receiving a cheque for £500 donated by the members of St.Giles Lodge & LOI when the team turned up to support the SNFC Swimathon

041

MANSFIELD LODGE OF INSTRUCTION 100’TH ANNUAL SUPPER MEETING THURSDAY 24TH APRIL 2013 @ 6PM

e are going to celebrate our Centenary in style. This year’s extravaganza has something of interest for every mason and is sure to entertain, inform and delight all who attend :

• • • •

Exhibition of typical clothing as worn by masons of the day. A talk on masonry in Mansfield in the year of our foundation by Peter Mitchell. Many of the people we will be hearing about are only known because of the streets named in their honour in our town. We hear from the oldest W/Bro Jim Adams and the newest members Steve Gee of our great lodge, who will describe in their own words what they feel about masonry today. A demonstration of the seventh lecture of the first degree ceremony delivered by 10 of our members.

The formation of this great lodge coincides with the start of the First World War. In order to commemorate this there will be a display of Military uniforms all described by a long term member of the re-enactment society - Tom Reddy. There will be a book brought along by the Newark Masonic librarian Chas Black, listing every Nottinghamshire Mason of the day and detailing their involvement in the war effort. A talk by Geoff Rybicki, details those Nottinghamshire men who were awarded the highest honour in the land; the Victoria Cross, for acts of bravery and the new moves now being made to commemorate those men. Of course any meeting such as ours cannot be complete without recognising the Masonic efforts which helped the nation to win through during the catastrophe of world war one. Recognising the magnitude of the event the director Ms Diane Clement and her team of resident experts from the Museums and Libraries of the United Grand lodge of England has commissioned a new book on this very subject. This book is with the publishers now and will be ready for sale later this year. Dianne has kindly agreed to launch the book at our 100 year anniversary meeting and will be conducting a 30 minute presentation entitled :

English Freemasonry and the First World War The headquarters of English freemasonry today is Freemasons’ Hall in Great Queen Street Hall, a building dedicated to the freemasons who died in the First World War which began one hundred years ago. When Britain declared war on Germany on 4th August 1914, English Freemasonry faced what a senior freemason described at the time as “unprecedented circumstances”. In her talk, Diane is going to explore some of the ways in which the war had an impact on English freemasonry and how some of those effects continue to resonate even today. The talk will draw on research for the book which is with the printers now and is to be published in September 2014. In addition to the entertaining performance in the temple, there is a meal afterwards in the dining hall comprising of a menu typical of the day, musical entertainment from the era plus a raffle with terrific prizes. Special presentations of this kind are so rarely available that they are widely regarded as once in a Masonic lifetime opportunities which should never be missed. These unique features combined will quite probably turn this prestigious event into the Masonic event of the year for the province of Nottinghamshire and we would like to encourage all members who want to be part of this celebration to contact Peter Mitchell - prmitch49@hotmail.com - who will co-ordinate the sales of tickets - priced at only £17.50 in order to attract maximum attendance. L. N. Boyington. Secretary

042

TINS DROP OFF Worksop & Retford Masons collect for Bassetlaw Food Bank.

he Worksop Masons working together with Bassetlaw Food Bank gather and distribute healthy emergency food to those in need. Bassetlaw Food Bank is a non-profit charitable organisation which distributes food parcels to people who are suffering genuine hardship & poverty in Bassetlaw through a referral process. The distribution centre on Lowtown Street and is open five days a week between 10.00 -14.00hrs. Food is also distributed from The Well in Retford. Many people living in Retford, Worksop and surrounding villages within the district of Bassetlaw, are indeed facing food poverty and that their quality of lives are being severely affected by it.

To help tackle the problem and caring deeply that this is affecting “our” community some very enterprising freemasons elected to collect supplies for this organisation to improve the lives of those who need support. Based at the Masonic Hall Potter Street, Worksop, John Waller & Malcolm Buxton are now embarking on a vision by asking the three hundred plus masons who attend to deposit a tin whenever they meet, But to enhance a regular supply to the Bassetlaw Food Bank and to increase their volume they want to open the doors to the general public at large. So that every Saturday morning the doors will be open to every local shopper who may be passing by to leave some of their two for one tins in the collection bins. This is a most simple yet effective way to ease the burden on people who are less fortunate. In a way that freemasonry and the people of Worksop & Retford become one of the same, working for the common good in these tough times, working together we could make “Bassetlaw Better”

Mansfield Masonic Hall

he Charity Stewards of Mansfield Masonic Hall and The Provincial Charity Committee of Nottinghamshire gave £1000.00 (£500.00 each) enabling the FOOD BANK at The Magdalene Centre of St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sutton-in-Ashfield; later named: Mary’s Foodbank@Sutton (MFS) to begin feeding the homeless and needy in the area. The Food Bank Opened on 7th. December 2012 and helped 16 people. Now every Friday, MFS is feeding upwards of 100 per week. They are all offered tea, coffee biscuits, soup and a Roll; a time to sit and chat to volunteers along with having Framework in attendance for further advice. Referrals from statutory bodies, eg. Social Services, Framework, Citizens Advice Bureau etc.. There are now 18 volunteers who give their time freely. We give our heartfelt thanks to the following who have contributed in 2013: The congregation at St. Mary’s, Local Supermarkets and Shopkeepers, local schools (at harvest festival projects) Sutton Academy, Sutton Rotary, Thomas Farr Trust, Masonic Lodges meeting at Mansfield, Individual Masons, and on 30th. November 2013 The Nottinghamshire Charity Committee granted MFS £1200.00. On 28th. January 2014 The Sutton Lodges ie. Ashfield, de Sutton and Elliott met together, 90 members in total; a raffle was held for MFS and raised £405.00 which was presented to Bro. Reverend David James on the night. “Have you anything to give in the cause of Charity” is certainly remembered by Nottinghamshire Masons. We thank everyone who has contributed. Our mottos at MFS are:

FOOD BANKS ARE NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS. FOR A HAND UP NOT A HAND OUT.

043

Chilwell Tins

he Tins appeal from Chilwell Hall collected just short of 100 items which were delivered to Hope House Food Bank (Trussell Trust) at Boundary Road, Beeston. Phil Scott HIO Chilwell

West Bridgford Tins

he West Bridgford division of operation ’10 Tons of Tins’ appeal’ has again proved to be a great success….

Your kind donations so far have enabled us to deliver 850 tins to the Friary Drop-In on Musters Road, West Bridgford - they feed around 90 hungry and homeless people daily !! and were very appreciative of our efforts. I’d like to mention W.Bro. Roger Pegg of SNFC of Bentinck lodge for his stirling work in

Newark Tins

ast year the food bank collection was not collected from Newark.

This resulted in us making contact with our local food bank organisers and collecting, during the year some 82.5kg of food stuffs. There is currently another collection to pass to the Newark food bank, the content weight of which I am, as yet, unsure. This effort has been supported by appeals in The Newark Password publication and donations, throughout the year, from the Brethren and partners of all of the Newark Masonic Community. Clive Goode Sec Magnus 3441

organisation, collection and delivery of the tins which managed to keep the hallway at Welbeck Rd clear and the wrath of Alan at bay ! Sadly the needs of people who rely on the Friary and other such places do not cease at Christmas….it is therefore our intention to continue the collection in the New Year giving continued support to this vital life line. Kevin Rolling Chairman SNFC

Nottingham Tins

t Goldsmith street we collected 257 tins which I delivered to The Friary in West Bridgford on 7 January 2014. The Friary was nominated by Bro Gordon Hill of Excalibur lodge No 8903. Tony Owen HIO Nottingham

044

LADIES SATURDAY CLUB E

lementary My Dear Watson. A talk in September from Dr. Roger Summers, who is a forensic scientist. He gave us a most interesting insight into the world of “Silent Witness” and all the other similar programmes on television. However its value in todays world is immense, but not always so cut and dried! The most significant is the discovery of D.N.A , everyone leaves a trace of themselves however hard they try to cover it up! We followed this up in October with a talk on Elizabethan Cosmetics, this was of course the Tudor variety. Considering what they put on their faces it is a wonder any of the aristocracy survived! Even the men!! The story of the Bristow estate at Beesthorpe, by Pam Littlewood was transcribed from the original secrets laid down by the family. Although this estate remained with one family for 400years, it was sold in 1947 and broken up into smaller farms, which is how Pam came to live there and be so knowledgeable about it. An outing to St. Nicholas Fayre in York was undertaken by 49 members and friends. It was a lovely day if somewhat hectic, as the world and his wife had also made their way there!! The stalls were full of all sorts of merchandise and the shops were doing a brisk trade. We managed to get there and back without losing anybody, and everyone enjoyed it even if they were a little tired(the bus journey home was quite quiet apart from the odd snore!! We came to the end of the year in December with ‘A lighter look at Superstitions’ a talk by Trevor Impey. Some superstitions are very old, but the majority stem from around 1875. Some were handed down, and some were the result of religious practices, many of which are irrelevant today. Many remain in common usage without us consciously realizing that they are actually superstitions. After the meeting 30 members enjoyed a lunch in the boardroom, a slight departure from previously, but nevertheless very enjoyable.

January, another year!! Where does the time go? The talk by Cathy McAteer was entitled ‘Inspiring Russian Women’. If you get a chance to hear her speak, go for it! She has a fantastic knowledge of Russia, and before she talked about the women we learnt about the lot of women in Russia. Women were at the centre of all things(Russia is called the ‘Motherland’ ) but this changed when Mongol hordes overran the country, and also when Christianity became widespread, which is surprising. It became a patriarchal society and the women had to do as they were told! After the Revolution it was possible for women to become educated but they had to do all the other jobs as well, multi-tasking we call it today!! Catherine the Great did much for the development of orphanages, schools, and hospitals in Russia, although she is generally better known for the number of lovers she had!! In the “2nd World War many women were trained in engineering, medicine, and also as pilots, and because they were so accurate in doing their jobs they were nicknamed ‘The Night Witches’ During 2014 we have talks on a wide variety of topicsGoose Fair on film, Fun with Cartoons, Images of Japan, A New Light on Edward and Mrs Simpson, Adventures and Travels of a Wildlife Artist, and Christmas Crackers, amongst others. Membership of the Ladies Saturday Group is open to Associate Members of the Nottinghamshire Masonic Club. If you would like to join us, our meetings are held on the second Saturday in each month. Coffee is served at 10.00am and the meeting commences at 10.30am. A warm welcome awaits all existing and potential new members. For further information contact Penny Sanders on 0115 9167951 or pen.sanders746@gmail.com In writing this I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year, but am aware that by the time you read this we shall probably be nearer to next Christmas!!

045

The Dambusters Raid T

o celebrate the 70th anniversary of this most daring and difficult bombing raid Radcliffe Lodge hosted a presentation by the renowned wartime historian Robert Owen an aviation expert and the Official Historian of the No. 617 Squadron Association, on Wednesday 20 November, at Welbeck Rd, West Bridgford. The raid codenamed, ‘Operation Chastise’ was an attack on the Ruhr dams carried out on 16–17 May 1943 by Royal Air Force No. 617 Squadron, subsequently known as the “Dambusters”, using a specially developed “bouncing bomb” invented and developed by Barnes Wallis (born in Ripley, Derbyshire). The Möhne and Edersee Dams were breached, causing catastrophic flooding of the Ruhr valley and of villages in the Eder valley, while the Sorpe dam sustained only minor damage. Two hydroelectric powerplants were destroyed and several more

were damaged. Factories and mines were also either damaged or destroyed. Robert explained the development of the bomb, the training of the pilots, the actual bombing runs and introduced some local colour by highlighting the part played by F/Lt Trevor Roper who came from Radcliffe on Trent. Over 100 attended the evening which was organised by Graham Riche with all the proceeds going towards the 2018 Festival. In attendance was Brian Gould the renowned author of several books on the Lancaster Bomber who was received with much acclaim when introduced to the audience by Graham. Brian brought with him the pilot control stick from plane Guy Gibson flew on the raid and the nameplate from the dog collar of Guy’s dog ‘Nigger’ who was sadly killed by a car. These items aroused much interest and Brian (right of pic) is pictured with the Robert Owen below. After the talk everyone tucked into a hot supper of steak and ale pie provided by Alan Shirley and his team. A raffle raised in excess of £400 and the evening as a whole approximately £1000. Graham Riche

Re-union of Scholboy Friends A

t the beginning of October, 2013, the last English survivor of the ‘Dambuster Crews’ of the RAF 617 Squadron, Squadron Leader George ‘Johnny’ Johnson attended a book-signing to mark the opening of a new book shop and gallery at Tuxford, Notts. Knowing that this remarkable man had attended Winthorpe School near Newark at the same time as our highly respected and much loved friend, Bert Emerson, who is just a few months ahead in age, Faith and I took the opportunity of collecting Bert and his wife to enable the school friends to have a few minutes together,

since it is twenty years since they last saw each other. It was striking how similar the two men are in their positive outlook on life as they shared a few reminiscences of years ago before they went their separate ways in their respective careers. What remarkable spirit they still have and what memories they must encompass of their experiences through their long lifetime of achievements. Geoff Tindall.

046

Battlefield Visit Farewell Flanders O

n Wednesday 4th September thirty seven Masons from the Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire Provinces, together with ladies and friends left Newark at seven in the morning , and sustained by bacon, and sausage and egg cobs, together with Bucks Fizz made their way to Dover for the Channel Crossing to Calais.

delivered the, ‘They shall not grow old’….. Exhortation, prior to the wreath laying. Thursday morning saw the group visit the ‘In Flanders Fields Museum’ recently extended and re-furbished, and this was followed by a short walk to St George’s Church, the British Church in Ypres where everything has been donated to commemorate an individual, battalion or regiment.

The journey to the 4-star Ariane Hotel was interrupted by a stop at the Cemetery and new visitor’s centre at Lyssenthoek where over ten thousand are buried – Lyssenthoek

Following lunch, an excursion was made into the Ypres Salient, and after a stop at a beautiful little cemetery by the town’s moat (Ramparts Cemetery) it was on to Hill 60 and the Caterpillar, the scene of continuous fighting throughout the War. Whilst examining the Canadian pill-box on Hill 60, our bus driver Glyn Bowers recorded a temperature of 91° a really hot day for September.!! being the second largest cemetery in the area, was a most important casualty clearing station in use from 1914 until 1918. The group, in the evening, attended the Menin Gate Ceremony where W. Bro. Geoff Tindall laid a wreath on behalf of the group and Bob Bennison (from Lincoln), laid one on behalf of the Washingborough Branch of the Royal British Legion. It was with enormous pride that Geoff Tindall

The afternoon ended on the Menin Road, where it was possible to visit an evocative little museum in a disused Chapel, visit the Hooge Crater and visit the Hooge Crater Cemetery. Friday morning took the group to Tyne Cot cemetery and its visitor’s centre looking down the Passchendaele Ridge. The cemetery is the biggest Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in the world. In all, 11,871 graves are registered on the site, and at the back on a wall are the names of 35,000 men who were killed between August, 1917 and the end of the War and have no known grave. The morning continued with a visit to the German Cemetery at Langemarck, which contains a mass grave of 25,000, and on the way the group passed Vancouver Corner where a 35 foot high statue of a Canadian soldier with head bowed and hands resting on arms reversed, commemorates the Canadians who were lost defending the line in the first gas attack of April, 1915.

047

Essex Farm (Cemetery) was the last port of call before lunch. Here John McCrea wrote his immortal poem “In Flanders Fields the poppies blow….” and the group saw the site of the advanced dressing station where the poem was written. In the afternoon there was a warm welcome for Jacques Rykesbosch, the former Warden of Talbot House, in Poperinghe, now a charismatic battlefield guide. He took the group up to the Messines Ridge where he explained the “Bayenwald” a system of preserved bunkers and trenches, occupied by the Germans. He took us on to the “Pool of Peace” a crater created by a mine explosion on the opening night of the battle of Messines, and related tales of events happening there related to him by a survivor. Finally, we visited the Ploegsteert Memorial where Jacques told more stirring tales of men whose names are on the memorial. Returning to Ypres – that evening a three course dinner was enjoyed by all in the restaurant of the Hotel Ariane. Next morning, after a visit to the Saturday Ypres market, it was time for the journey home. In 2014, if there is enough interest, there will be one last visit to the Battlefield of the Somme. 2013 – Farewell Flanders, 2014 – So long the Somme!! W. Bro Chris Grant Fleming Mark Lodge.

n a separate coach tour to Ypres with Emjay Tours, I was able to visit and pay respects to Captain John Garrett Bussell, who was killed on 28th June, 1915, near Armentiers and is buried nearby in Tancrez Farm Military Cemetery. CWGC. He was the son of the Rev. Frederick Vernon Bussell, a former Vicar of Balderton and an eminent Freemason in Nottinghamshire. (G.B.T.)’

048

Visit to Rochester a tour through the early Freemasonry of Newark H

aving had a particular interest in the origins of the Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Degrees in our ancient Borough, I became fascinated by the research and various presentations which I have either read or heard delivered by the late W. Bro. Len Hordle. Like many other Lodges there is a strong element of interest from outside our Mark Province of Nottinghamshire and quite surprisingly for those days, Brethren travelled extensively to attend their own or to visit other Lodges. The Fleming Lodge of Mark Masters No. 265 was consecrated at the Savings Bank, Lombard Street, Newark on the 9th August, 1880 and was sponsored by many Brethren of the Remigius Lodge of Mark Masters No. 117 at Lincoln. Fleming Lodge was only the second Mark Lodge in Nottinghamshire at that time and in conjunction with the Newstead Lodge of Mark Masters, Time Immemorial, formed the Nottinghamshire Provincial Grand Mark Lodge in 1883. Nearly all those early Masonic members were leaders of the Church, Medical profession, commerce, farming or practitioners in the legal profession and who were also totally engaged in their private business lives as well as laying the solid foundations of the Freemasonry that we all enjoy today. On the 3rd December, 1886, the Trent Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No 265 was consecrated at the Savings Bank, (formerly the Estate Office of the Duke of Newcastle, Offices of the Newark Rural District Council and now a NHS Clinic), but sadly ceased working in March, 1897, just three years after moving with the other Lodges to the Meeting Room above Ridge’s Printing Shop in the Market Place. The Petitioners who Founded the Trent Lodge were Newark men but those early records clearly show that two of their number were Past Commanders of the Dewar Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No 237 at Rochester in Kent. These Brethren were W. Bro James Morrison McLeod and his brother in law W. Bro. Henry George who had been the first W. Master of the Fleming Lodge, whose families lived respectively at Whitfield Street and Harcourt Street, Newark. W. Bro James Morrison McLeod became the Secretary of the R.M.I.B. on 9th August, 1890 and was honoured by Grand Mark Lodge in 1896 when he was awarded Grand Rank as Past Grand Sword Bearer. The early records of the Dewar Lodge were lost in a fire at Rochester Masonic Hall but an early Minute Book of the St Andrew’s Mark Lodge, to which the Royal Ark Mariner Lodge was ‘moored’ now meets at Gillingham Masonic Centre, and shows that Henry George took the Chair of W. Master and conducted the Advance-

ment Ceremony at a Meeting in 1880 and at a separate Meeting donated a Lodge Carpet to the Masonic Hall. Regrettably, am still unable to determine the reason why these two Brethren became members at Rochester, whilst living in Newark. On Wednesday 11th September, 2013, I was invited by W. Bro John S. B. Hayes of the Newstead Lodge T.I. and W. Bro Colin Pheasant, who is still a member of the Mark Degree in Kent, to attend the Dewar Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners. I am so grateful to these Brethren for such a memorable day. Having arrived in good time, John took me on a tour of his seat of learning including a tour of the magnificent Rochester Cathedral and nearby Castle. John attended the Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School where the great actor, David Garrick was a pupil in 1737. The School, now sadly demolished occupied the site between the years 1700 – 1970. Nearby is the Hospital for French Protestants and their descendants residing in Great Britain. It arose from a bequest made in 1708 by a Huguenot refugee, Jacques de Gastigny, Master of the King’s Buckhounds at the Court of King William and Queen Mary, and was granted a Royal Charter by King George 1 in 1718. For more than twohundred and fifty years ‘La Providence’, as poor Huguenot refugees and their families called it, provided shelter and care “for those among us who are in distress” first in the City of London and from 1865 in Hackney. Its present home, which was originally Theobald Square was opened in 1959 after restoration and re-arrangement into flats housing elderly people of Huguenot descent who require private accommodation but with help always at hand in sickness and emergency. Under a new Charter granted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 the direction of “La Providence” remains in the hands of a Governor, Deputy Governor and Directors who are honoured to maintain this “monument to the piety of their ancestors”. The Earl of Radnor Governor.

049

Promotion Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank

n 10th December, a group of Nottinghamshire Brethren travelled to the Annual Grand Assembly of Royal Ark Mariners held at Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London, to support W. Bro David Hubbard and W. Bro Tony Hopewell who were the Nottinghamshire recipients that day of promotion to RAM.GR. They were invested by the M.W. Pro Grand Master, Addy, together with the other worthy Brethren from across the world.

I have attached some photographs of the interior of the Masonic Hall as well as some interesting views along the main thoroughfare. I also include a picture of my two hosts supporting the retaining wall near to the Medway Bridge. When I reflect on our comfort and speed of travel how things have changed so much in the past 100 years! The one thing that I hope will never change is the sentimental piece of ritual from the Mark Degree which is so true – ‘Among Mark Master Masons you will ever find friends’. What a superb visit.! Grateful thanks. Geoff Tindall. Dep. PGM (Mark)

The photograph depicts David and Tony, following the banquet held at the Connaught Rooms. The photo shows from left to right - W. Bro Alan Armstrong, W. Bro. Richard Davis, W. Bro Chris Adkin (standing), R.W. Bro Peter Ball PGM, W. Bro Tony Hopewell W. Bro Geoff Tindall DPGM (Standing), W. Bro. Philip Marshall, W. Bro Winston Snowden W. Bro. David Hubbard and W. Bro Colin Pheasant. W. Bro. David Davis, the Grand Deputy D. of C. was otherwise engaged on his Official duties.

050

Provincial Grand Master of the Mark Degree

Promotion to Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank.

he photo depicts The Provincial Grand Master of the Mark Degree for Nottinghamshire, R.W. Bro. Peter Ball, receiving the magnificent portrait from the artist W. Bro John Taylor at the Meeting of the FitzHugh Mark Lodge No. 632, held on 8th March, 2013. The W. Master of FitzHugh Mark, W. Bro. David Taylor is standing to the right. The portrait now hangs, together with those of the former Prov. Grand Masters of the Mark Degree, in the Doric Temple at Goldsmith Street.

n 10th December, a group of Nottinghamshire Brethren travelled to the Annual Grand Assembly of Royal Ark Mariners held at Freemasonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Hall, Great Queen Street, London, to support W. Bro David Hubbard and W. Bro Tony Hopewell who were the Nottinghamshire recipients that day of promotion to RAM.GR. They were invested by the M.W. Pro Grand Master, Benjamin Addy, together with the other worthy Brethren from across the world. The photograph depicts David and Tony, following the banquet held at the Connaught Rooms.

From left to right - W.Bro Alan Armstrong, W.Bro. Richard Davis, W.Bro Chris Adkin (standing), R.W.Bro Peter Ball PGM, W.Bro Tony Hopewell, W.Bro Geoff Tindall DPGM (Standing), W.Bro. Philip Marshall, W.Bro Winston Snowden, W.Bro. David Hubbard and W.Bro Colin Pheasant. W.Bro. David Davis, the Grand Deputy D. of C. was otherwise engaged on his Official duties.

AUCTION FOR CHARITY

The gun slip pictured below has been donated to masonic charities by Bro Kieron Meakin of Radcliffe Lodge for auction to the highest bidder. The case was made, by a former Purdey craftsman, of the finest leather and brass fittings and is fleece lined. It really is a superb case and presents a rare opportunity to obtain an article which will last a lifetime. Bids in excess of ÂŁ350 please to : graham.riche@concourse.uk.com or call 07786226109 for further information.

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SHERLOCK HOLMES, THE GREEK INTERPRETER & SIR ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE’S HIDDEN CODE

herlock Holmes is currently big business. BBC TV’s Sherlock and CBS’ Elementary have leant Sir ACD’s eponymous hero a rock star status reviving the acting careers of Benedict Cumberbatch and Johny Lee Miller. In this new climate of interest in period literature it has become somewhat trite to sex up any analysis of Sir Arthur Conan Doyles works by drawing attention to masonic references in some of the more famous tales such as: The Musgrave Ritual and The Red Headed League. However, what is often overlooked in these analyses (although noted briefly in passing) is Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s remark that his tale: The Adventure of the Greek Interpreter was his seventeenth favourite Sherlock Holmes tale. The story itself introduces the character of Mycroft Holmes (Sherlock’s brother) who invites his younger brother Sherlock to his club, the Diogenes Club, to make sense of a bizarre experience of a certain Mr Melas. Mr Melas is, in turn, invited by Mycroft to relate his experiences to Sherlock in the hope that some sense may be made of the matter. This invitation is suggestive of Sir ACD’s oft noted lament at the lack of consistent masonic scholarship among more senior freemasons and their apparent (and in his view shameful) inability to field earnest questions from enthusiastic younger brethren looking to broaden their masonic knowledge. Mycroft is clearly senior to Sherlock and yet, as Sherlock observes: “If the art of the detective began and ended in reasoning from an arm-chair, my brother would be the greatest criminal agent that ever lived. But he has no ambition and no energy. He will not even go out of his way to verify his own solution, and would rather be considered wrong than take the trouble to prove himself right.” Mr Melas relates that he makes his living acting as an interpreter of Greek for visitors to London who find themselves in difficulty; it is in his capacity as an interpreter that he finds himself mixed up with the dastardly doings of the cad Harold Latimer and the truly loathsome Wilson Kemp. Is there significance in the fact that Mr Melas’ surname reversed is Salem? One might disagree but the deep interest that Sir ACD had in matters of an occult nature certainly invites speculation. To continue, Mr Melas is picked up at his lodgings by Harold Latimer and taken by coach, in a state of darkness, to the strangely furnished room of stately home (with a deep pile carpet of particularly remarkable note and a high marble mantel) that is also in a state of darkness (the windows being papered over). Mr Melas is then ushered into the presence of Mr Kemp who intimates that Mr Melas will suffer violence at the hands of a bludgeon if the same does not translate what he hears for

their benefit. Resigned to the desperateness of his position, Mr Melas looks on helplessly as a Mr Paul Kratides is dragged into the room: half dressed, slipshod and with his face covered in sticking plaster (hoodwinked?). Messrs Latimer and Kemp then subject Mr Kratides to a robust and rather frightening interrogation. They do so by asking Mr Melas to field their demands that Mr Kratides acquiesce in providing them with the means to secure some pecuniary advantage that quite clearly they would not otherwise be entitled to receive. This reads, with hardly any embellishment, very much like the behaviour of the villainous masons of yore towards our erstwhile grandmaster Hiram Abif, particularly since Mr Kratides goes to his death without surrendering to the demands of Messrs Latimer and Kemp. Mr Melas throughout his questioning of Mr Kratides puts his own safety at risk by eliciting further information about the latter’s personal circumstances with reference to a undisclosed Pythagorean code that would have been known (as a shibboleth?) only to native Greeks and which should therefore have been familiar to educated freemasons. The rest of the story is pure adventure but what are we to make of Sir ACD’s listing of the tale as his seventeenth favourite. The significance is in the number 17: a prime number that is of major significance to masons who place store on the importance of the Volume of the Sacred Law – so for example: • The Ten Commandments are contained in 17 verses • Joseph was at seventeen years old sold by his brothers and taken to Egypt • Angels appear times in the Gospel and Acts • Rennes Le Chateau is replete with references to the number 17 17 was thought by Pythagoreans to relate directly to the astrological sign of Capricorn, the half goat half fish creature said to have been worshipped by the Knight’s Templar as Baphomet and representing not the devil, but an alchemic archetype demonstrating the perfected man’s transcendence over base flesh or rude matter. Was Sir ACD, by associating this tale with the number 17 directing those with eyes to see to the masonic messages and references therein? Sadly, the great author is not around to answer definitively but consider this: Number 17 is also known as the Star of the Magi (depicted by the ancient Chaldeans as the eight pointed star of Venus) representing Peace, Love and Harmony. We know a festive board song about that don’t we?. Fred Parkinson Forest Lodge 1852, Mansfield.

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Over £13k provided to Nottinghamshire Masons and their families

he Masonic Samaritan Fund provides health and care grants for Freemasons and their dependants to receive treatment, care and support without undue delay or expense. During 2013, nine grants were awarded in Nottinghamshire at a total cost of £13,944 to fund the associated cost of a diagnosed health and care need. Grants are available to fund medical treatment or surgery, functional dental treatment, respite breaks for full-time carers, mobility aids, home adaptations required due to a disability and counselling sessions. Grants can also be provided to fund an initial consultation or assessment. Freemasons, their wives, partners, widows and children in full time education can apply for a grant if: 1. Their health and care need has been diagnosed by an appropriate specialist (i.e. a medical consultant, dentist or occupational therapist ) 2. They are currently facing a wait of over 12 waits for NHS treatment (or treatment is not available on the NHS)

Can you apply for a health and care grant? The MSF are excited to announce that a new online tool for potential applicants to self-assess if they can make an application to the Fund is now live on the website. The MSF Eligibility Calculator simplifies the Fund’s eligibility criteria into 10 quick questions. It will provide an immediate eligibility decision and give you the option to submit this information directly to our Grants Team. Please visit: www.msfund.org.uk/eligibility-calculator to see if you can make a formal application. There is nothing to lose by trying today. Even if you don’t need support right now, you’ll know for the future if the Fund can help.

Counselling Services Most grants provided in Nottinghamshire during 2013 were to fund the cost of counselling services. The MSF Counselling Careline confidentially provides access for Freemasons and their dependants to professional counsellors within five days of their initial call to the Fund. Up to six face-to-face or telephone counselling sessions can also be arranged. To access the service, there is no paperwork to complete or financial assessment required, simply call the Fund on 0207 404 1550. The MSF Counselling Careline was launched in early 2013 and we are very pleased to state in total, 196 people from the Masonic community have accessed the service.

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The MSF funds successful study to find Prostate Cancer blood test with £35K donation Prostate Cancer UK has announced that a new study has found that the presence of a specific protein can distinguish between prostate cancers that are aggressive and need further treatment from those that may never seriously harm the patient.

he Fund donated £34,625 towards the study earlier this year at the University of Cambridge. Dr Hayley Whitaker, Research Developer and Lead Researcher for Prostate Cancer UK accepted the donation from the MSF CEO Richard Douglas. The Masonic Samaritan Fund is delighted to have made a donation which will have a real impact on advanced medical diagnostics. Dr Whitaker explained that the presence of these specific proteins now called NAALADL2, can be measured with a blood test, saving many men undergoing invasive tests and unnecessary worry, whilst allowing faster, targeted treatment for men with aggressive prostate cancers. The hope is that this test will be available on the NHS in the next five to ten years. Richard Douglas said: “Accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer is the starting point to help men survive and have a better quality of life post treatment. With over 10,000 men dying annually from this disease, that is one per hour, we’re delighted to have made a significant contribution towards the funding Dr Whitaker needed to identify prostate cancers through a low cost blood test.”

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2013 Worksop Remembrance and Lunch The 14th Annual Remembrance Service and lunch took place at the Worksop Masonic Hall on Sunday 3rd November 2013, to raise funds for the 2013 Nottinghamshire Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal The Service of Remembrance

he Service was attended by over 250 people in the magnificent Masonic Temple. This year’s Altar was a drumhead kindly presented by the Nottinghamshire Army Cadets Band that made an impressive backdrop to the Temple The Service commenced with a Parade of the Colours and Standards of each of the organisations taking part and

and those who have those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan in the past 12 months; Remembering Drummer Lee Rigby; Evocative pictures and original sound tracks from famous speeches made by Winston Churchill during the Second World War and Pictures and words as a backdrop to the poems read throughout the Service. Lydia Mathers of the Elizabethan Academy then gave the pledge reminding the congregation that the families of the soldiers following all flags feel the same sorrow when a loved one pays the ultimate sacrifice and concluded by asking God to help us all learn from the past. Following the singing of the first hymn: “I Vow to Thee My Country”, and prayers, the three candles were lit on the Altar by three cadets, one from each Service Unit. While they were being lit three 12 year old students from Worksop College Preparatory School, Ranby House: Freya Webster, James Recaldin and Emilie Pymm read the Poem: Remembrance Sunday by Maria Cassee. After the singing of the second hymn: “He who would

was overseen by Parade Marshall Sergeant Anna Dowsett a Royal Marine. The leading Standards were presented by The Royal British Legion Nottinghamshire County Standard Bearer, Mervyn Witts and The Royal British Legion Worksop Branch Standard Bearer, Brian Madden The Service was conducted by Father Bill Bergin, a Scot who is the parish priest of St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Retford and a member of the chaplaincy team at Rampton hospital and Ramby prison. Before coming to Retford in 2006 he served with the Royal Army Chaplain’s Department a role that took him to Iraq in 2003 and 2005. The Director of Music in the Temple was W.Bro. Paul Jackson, the Provincial Grand Organist Following a welcome to the congregation and to those listening on the radio stations from Rt.W.Bro. Robin Wilson, Father Bill introduced the PowerPoint presentation setting the scene for the Service covering: Remembering the sacrifices made by British and Commonwealth troops from the beginning of World War 1 to the present day; A special remembrance to those who took part in the 1943 Dams Raid

valiant Be” the First Lesson: Micah, Chapter 4, verses 1 to 5 was given by Girlguides Commissioner, Kirstie Pogson, Girlguides Commissioner. The third hymn: “Abide with me” was then sung and the Second Lesson: St. John, Chapter 15 verses: 9 to 17 was given by Lord James Ferrabbee, KtGC. Following Father Bill delivering the Prayers of Intercession, the Act of Remembrance commenced.

055 Act of Remembrance

singing of the National Anthem and the Final Hymn: “Jerusalem”

Parade Marshall Royal Marine Sergeant Anna Dowsett then brought the Parade to Attention and the Standards and Colours followed by the Officers, Cadets, Guides and Scout paraded out of the Temple to form an Honour Guard as the Principal Guests and the congregation left the Temple.

uring The Act of Remembrance Sarah Vernon from the Blidworth Welfare Band played the Last Post. This was followed by W.Bro. Colin Shield, County Royal British Legion member and Local Branch Chairman who gave the Homily, responded to by the congregation. Followed by one minutes silence in respect to all those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the Country and Freedom. W.Bro. Shield then responded with the Kohima Epitaph with Sarah Vernon then sounding Reveille. Piper Colin McAlpine formally of the Leicestershire and Rutland County Royal British Legion Pipe Band played the haunting “Pipers Lament” Three wreaths were brought from the back of the Temple by Cadets from the Three Services Units and given to W.Bro. Colin Shields who invited three of the Principal Guests to lay them in front of the Altar: Rt.W.Bro. Robin Wilson on behalf of Nottinghamshire Freemasons and by His Honour John Machin DL, Deputy Lord-Lieutenant and The High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, Mrs. Nicky J Weston This year an additional wreath was laid by World War 2 veteran: Leading Torpedo Operator Joe Saunders RN, with two Escorts: First Class Royal Marine Michael Barton and Grenadier Guardsman Stan Hooper The three verses of “In Flanders Field” were read out by the three Services Cadets and with this year’s theme being remembering the 70th anniversary of the famous 617 Squadron’s Dam’s raid, the Eastwood Collieries’ Male Voice Choir sang the songs below for those who were so successful in May 1943 and in remembrance for the ones that didn’t make it home: Mansions of The Lord; Softly as I Leave You; You Raise me Up and Gwahoddiad. Second Lieutenant George Sharman of the Sheffield University’s Officers Training Corps read the words of “Sunset Vigil” as reflective pictures were shown of the repatriation of British Service Personal from Afghanistan. Father Bill Bergin gave a thought provoking and informative Address focussing on the best and the worse sides of human behaviour when faced with the terrifying circumstances that Service Personnel are asked to face throughout war, concluding with the assuring reflection that British Service Personnel often show exemplary conduct under the most extreme situations The Service concluded with the Hymns: “Eternal Father”, the Commitment and Blessing given by Father Bill, the

While those attending lunch enjoyed a pre-lunch drink, the others who had taken part in the Service enjoyed a buffet. The Parade and particularly the Parade Marshall were thanked for the very sharp turn out and for the excellent participation in the day. The Principal Guests retired to the Machin Room where they were entertained by Rt.W.Bro. Robin and Mrs. Margaret Wilson and Rt.W.Bro. Peter Mrs. Kate Ball. They then were escorted to their seats for lunch by W.Bro. Ian Houldsworth who introduced each in turn. A special round of applause was reserved for Father Bill following the exemplary manner by which he had conducted the Service. Once the Principal Guests had sat down W.Bro. Houldsworth invited Rt.W.Bro. Robin Wilson, His Honour John Machin and Mrs. Nicky J Weston to join him to present and receive various cheques: Worksop Priory Lodge, represented by their Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Richard Martin: £200 each (£1,000 total) and Ryton Lodge, represented by W.Bro. Neil Biddleston: £100 each (£500) to: Sea Cadets: Sergeant Anna Dowsett and Able Cadet Arnold Army Cadet: Lieutenant Sarah McCarthy and Cadet: Sergeant Chappell. Air Force Cadets: Flight Lieutenant Graham Warburton and Cadet: Corporal Maja Jaroszewska Girlguides: Commissionaire Kirstie Pogson and Josie Croft Scouts: Leader: Nathan Dias, District Commissioner' for Bassetlaw Scouts

Continued........

056 The Provincial Grand Master then received the following amounts towards the Royal British Legion 2013 Poppy Appeal from W.Bro. Jim Lowe, of Pinner Lodge, representing other Freemasons in Nottinghamshire: Pinner Lodge No 3300: £50.00 Chilwell Mark Lodge No 1347: £250.00. A further donation had been received (by bank transfer) from Dukeries IT of £50.00 After the presentations were completed W.Bro. Richard Martin gave a moving speech of his families own personnel experience of how the Royal British Legion had assisted his family early in his own life. Following Grace presented by Father Bill everyone enjoyed a three course lunch. W.Bro. Ian Houldsworth then introduced His Honour John Machin who spoke about the work of The Royal British Legion and who then proposed the Loyal Toast. The Eastwood Collieries’ Male Voice Choir sang a medley of songs: The Rose American Trilogy Morte Criste Bring Him Home The formal proceedings were brought to a conclusion by Rt.W.Bro. Robin Wilson who thanked the Principal Guests, those taking part during the day, the staff of the Hall and wished everyone a safe journey home. Charitable presentations and donations throughout the day: The total amounts received and donated on the day included: 1. £1,500.00 donated to the Three Cadet Service Units and Nottinghamshire Girlguides and Scouts. 2. The collection during the Service of almost £250.00 to the Royal British Legion 2013 Appeal. 3. The proceeds from the raffle of just over £325.00 to the Royal British Legion 2013 Appeal. 4. £300.00 from Freemasons in Nottinghamshire to the Royal British Legion 2013 Appeal. 5. Plus another approximately £50.00 from other donations throughout the day. 6. A total of approximately £2,500.00 was presented including almost £1,000.00 to the Royal British Legion 2013 Appeal.

SAMARITAN LODGE REUNION

he 7th annual reunion of the former Samaritan Lodge No 9114 along with their wives, partners friends and guests took place on Friday 24th January 2014 at the Chilwell Masonic Hall. The event took the form of a Burns Nigh twith the haggis being piped in by Mr Ian Pitman with the address to the haggis being delivered by W Bro Denis Baker. In the true masonic fashion a raffle was held which raised the sum of £250 which has been given to the Chilwell Masonic Hall Building Fund. As ever an excellent evening was had by all who attended with thanks being given to W Bro Denis Baker and his wife Elaine for organising the event which has already been booked for 2015. W Bro Phil Perkins.

LADY VIKTORIA

n the 14th September 2013, W. Bro. Mick Cox of The Worksop Priory Lodge. No. 7443 arranged a Concert by Lady Viktoria a Hungarian Coloratur Soprano. Those attending were treated to a unique selection of the most beautiful opera and classical hits from Mozart to Pavarotti and hand clapping foot stamping virtuoso violin numbers. The performance covered two one hour periods either side of a Hot Supper. The fantastic sound and lighting were provided by Bro. Malcolm Waring and his wife June (Chairperson for the Worksop Branch of Cancer Research UK) The show was compared by W. Bro. Malcolm Bevan and the picture shows his wife Sue presenting a bouquet to Lady Viktoria at the end of the concert. The artiste was accompanied by her husband Douglas Marr a Mason from the Leeds area. They now live in Tenerife and Viktoria is now part of what is described as the biggest show on the Island, entitled ‘History of Music’ in which she appears with 24 other musicians and singers. The event raised a total of £388.00 which was shared equally between the 2018 Festival and Cancer Research UK. Michal Cox

057 TEDDIES FOR LOVING CARE VALENTINES MAGIC

eddies for Loving Care (TLC) held their 8th Valentines Lunch at Ruddington Golf Course on Sunday 9 February. A large gathering enjoyed a four-course meal themed to suit the occasion and whilst they dined they were entertained by a close-up magician, Tim Douglas, a chemistry student from Nottingham University. The event is proving to be increasingly popular with families and Tim was in high demand with the children whom he mystified and instructed in the magic art in equal measure. The children also stepped up to the plate and distributed to the lucky winners the multitude of raffle prizes donated by local retailers and restaurants. Barry Woodhead, TLC Treasurer and current Master of Radcliffe Lodge, opened the afternoon by welcoming everyone and explaining some of the work of the charity. The two lucky ticket winners received a hamper of goodies and a bottle of champagne from his wife Jan who also drew the raffle tickets. Wonderland Memorabilia carried out a silent auction with their usual efficiency and also donated a significant prize. An additional feature was a table of 100 teddies all clothed in different costumes that a member of the public had donated to TLC. These were rapidly sold to ‘mums’ of all ages! The event was organised by the TLC committee who all contributed to the success of the day and Barry Woodhead completed his duties by distributing the roses to the ladies with much relish and aplomb! Finally, a really big thank you has to go to all those who donated personal prizes and especially to everyone who attended and simply enjoyed themselves thereby creating a fantastic atmosphere. The event raised just over £1500 for TLC.

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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE MASONIC CARAVANNER’S ASSOCIATION

Tel: (01623) 793146 E-‐mail: denis.j.baker@sky.com Mobile 07976229079

Secretary: W Bro D J Baker t: 01623 793146 15 Swinton Rise m: 07976229079 Ravenshead e: denis.j.baker@sky.com Nottingham NG15 9FS

CARAVAN RALLIES 2014 1. 14 – 16 MARCH 2014 – MAYTHORNE FARM, SOUTHWELL Directions From A617 – Mansfield – Newark Road Turn right in Kirklington towards Southwell and Edingley: The road to Maythorne is on left approx 1 mile before Southwell. Rally Fee with electric hook up £20 per unit. TO BE CONFIRMED 2. 11 – 13 APRIL 2014 - CARSINGTON WATER PARK, MILLFIELDSLANE, CARSINGTON DE63JS MARSHALS: ANDREW AND PAT SEAR Directions: Take A517 (Belper – Ashbourne) After Hulland Ward, turn right onto Dog Lane. After ¾ mile, turn right (sp. Carsington Water) – After ¾ mile site on right. Rally fee with electric hookup £28. (refreshments) Additional Nights available 3. 25 – 27 APRIL 2014 –CRICH LANE FARM, MOORWOOD MOOR LANE WESSINGTON, ALFRETON DE55 6DU Directions: Take A 615 – (Alfreton – Matlock) in Wessington opposite church turn left into Moorwood Moor site on left after farm. Rally Fee with electric hook up £24 per unit.(Refreshments) Additional Nights available 4. 16 – 18 MAY 2014 WATERFRONT COUNTRY PARK Directions: Leave A1 at A620 to Retford. Continue on A620 towards Gainsborough. Turn left onto A631 (signposted Epworth/Misterton) On entering Misterton turn right onto minor road (signposted West Stockwith). Immediately over canal bridge turn left into site. Rally Fee with electric hook up £22.per unit (refreshments) Additional Nights available 5. 13 – 15 JUNE 2014 GLEBE FARM, MOOR LANE, ROUGHTON, WOODHALL SPA. LINCS LN10 6YH Directions: Turn left off A 153 (Sleaford – Horncastle) in about 18.5miles at Haltham Grange, turn into road (spst Woodhall Spa/ Kirky on Bain. In 0.5miles at T junction, turn right into road spst Roughton. In Roughton village (by red phone box) turn left into Moor Lane. Site in approx 800 yards on left Rally fee including electric hook up £20. 00 per unit.. Additional Nights available 6. 4 –7 JULY 2014 – GREETHAM HOUSE FARM , GREETHAM, OAKHAM LE15 8DS Directions A1 South turn off onto B668 sp Oakham. In centre of Greetham – site on right opposite Post Office and adj to Plough Inn Rally fee including electric hook up £20 00 per unit (to be confirmed) Additional Nights available 7. 25 – 27 JULY 2014 – FORWOOD FARM, TRESSWELL, EAST RETFORD DN22 0EE Directions: Leave Retford town centre on road signposted Leverton. In approx 3.5m turn right onto Grove Road (signposted Treswell) at T jctn turn left - site on right in approx 1 mile. Aircraft on site. Rally fee including electric hook up £25 00 per unit Additional Nights available 8. 5 – 7 SEPTEMBER 2014 SEALWOOD COTTAGE VINEYARD, LINTON, SWADLINGCOTE DE12 6PA (NEW LOCATION) MARSHALS: TREVOR and JULIE PENDLETON Directions: Recommended via A42 At jctn 11 turn onto A444 towards Swadlingcote. At High Cross turn left onto minor road

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(sp Linton) In middle of village turn left onto minor road (sp Sealwood cottage vineyard) track a bit rough – take care. Site on left at end of track Rally fee including electric hook up £24 00 per unit . Additional Nights available Tour of Vineyard and wine tasting can be arranged. (fee applies) 9. 26 – 28 SEPTEMBER 2014 THE ROYAL OAK, CAR COLSTON, NOTTS MARSHALS: GORDON and CHRIS BEASTALL Directions: 3 miles north of Bingham; turn east off A 46: for 0.75 miles to Car - Colston, entering village green the Royal Oak is opposite (site behind public house.

Rally fee: £22 (To be confirmed) . Skittle Alley on site (A G M. Rally ) NOTES: 1. An early indication of likely attendance would be appreciated – this will be non binding but gives me some idea of likely numbers. 2. Should anyone be aware of other suitable sites, please let me know so that I can visit prior to arranging the rally programme for 2015. 3. If anyone is interested in marshalling any of the above rallies, please contact me. It may be possible to book extra nights at a number of venues; If you are interested in a longer stay, please contact the Secretary in the first instance.

ASSOCIATION

CONTACTS

Nottinghamshire Masonic Golfing Association Contact - Match secretary - Richard Marvin - e: rchrdmarvin@yahoo.co.uk - t: 0115 925 9961 Nottingham Masonic Bowls Association Contact- Christopher Bromley - t: 07966 288 980 Nottinghamshire Masonic Caravanner’s Association Contact - Secretary - Dennis Baker - e: denis.j.baker@sky.com The Nottingham Masonic Ladies Luncheon Club Contact - Zean Brenni - e: raymond.brenni@ntlworld.com Mansfield Masonic Ladies Luncheon Club Contact - Trish Cree - t: 01623 794 485 Nottinghamshire Masonic Ladies Association Contact- Penny Sanders - e: m.ks44@hotmail.co.uk North Nottinghamshire Masonic Walking Association Contact - Tony Davenport - t: 01623 656 034 Nottinghamshire Masonic Music Association Contact - Bill Robbins - e: w.a.robbins@ntlworld.com Provincial Fishing Competition Contact - Peter Olko - t: 01623 759 589 - e: peter.olko@btclick.com

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