Issue 26 of the Provincial Gazette

ISSUE 26 – SUMMER 2017

THE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE PUBLISHED BY THE FREEMASONS OF THE PROVINCE OF DURHAM

VC Memorial Revealed

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What’s inside this issue...

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P10

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Freemason and Freeman

What a Catch!

Just What the Doctor Ordered

Parents In Need of Support

GET THE POINT ISSUE 26

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EDITOR’S NOTES It’s full steam ahead as Durham celebrates 300 years of Freemasonry, with the various organising committees putting the final touches to the fantastic array of events planned throughout the summer. This is our opportunity to cement the Province and cementing our place within the community.

We now look forward to the Open Halls weekend on 24th June where we are encouraged to engage with our local communities by providing an open invitation to come into our Masonic Centres and enjoy themselves whilst gaining a greater understanding of our fraternity.

The weekend will also see many of us hosting a ‘Teddy Bears Picnic’ the latest initiative to promote the TLC campaign whilst providing local children with a fun-packed day to remember.

This issue focuses on the magnificent contribution Durham Benevolence continues to make in our Province, supporting a wide variety of

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WHAT’S INSIDE

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community groups through Non-Masonic Grants. If you are aware of a group in your locality that would benefit from assistance contact your lodge Benevolent Representative for further information.

The Communications Team relies heavily upon your editorial contributions, so please continue to report matters of interest; events both within your lodges and the local community.

If you know of anyone who might prefer or benefit from an audio version of this Gazette then email news@news.pgldurham.org to order a copy for them now!

To ensure your area of the Province is covered in future issues email: news@news.pgldurham.org

Paul O’Doherty Editor

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@PGLDurham

PGLDurham

3RD WASHINGTON SCOUTS Representing the Freemasons of Durham, Kevin Bainbridge, accompanied by Stewart K Bell, was honoured to present a £500 Community Support Grant to the 3rd Washington Scout Group.

Representing the group, Scout Leader Mrs Nicol Trueman was delighted to be receiving the much-needed award which will go a long way towards assisting with their ever-increasing overheads.

3rd Washington Scout Group (part of Houghton-Le-Spring Scout District) provides adventure for young people aged 6 to 18 in Washington, Tyne and Wear. Two thriving beaver colonies, two cub packs, two scout troops and an explorer unit make up the 250 members, comprising over 200 young people and a leader team of over 40 adults; the group is a registered charity and is managed by an active executive committee.

Looking ahead, 3rd Washington aims to expand the group to provide adventure for every young person in the North and West of Washington by building a successful team of adult volunteers to deliver a balanced programme of activities. The group intends to promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.

A recent national study found that that just over one third (34%) of organisations reported

Nicol Trueman with Kevin

that they were aware of people within their organisation who had been involved in Scouting.

More importantly, 41% said that a job applicant’s involvement in Scouting would positively influence their decision to recruit them.

Scouting attributes such as respect for others, friendships, teamwork, character building and personal development are very important attributes

recognised by employers, and gained through Scouting.

3rd Washington Scout Group operate two minibuses which other community organisations, charities and Scout Groups can use; these are operated on a not-for-profit basis and the costs are shared among the users. Both vehicles are equipped to carry a wheelchair.

BACK TO SCHOOL FOR PAUL DEBENHAM It was quite literally back to school for Paul Debenham when he made a cheque presentation to Jack Wilkie at Durham Castle. Paul taught not only Jack but also his sister Emma at Durham University.

Paul, who is a member of the Benevolent Committee of the Province of Durham, presented the cheque for £250 to Jack at University College in Durham Castle.

The cheque will go towards the £1250 that Jack has raised to finance a Sports in Action trip to Zambia. Whilst there he will coach Football and PE lessons for 6 weeks in July and August.

Jack (left) with Paul

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FREEMASON AND FREEMAN In May 2017 Mohamed Menabawey was awarded the status of Freeman of Hartlepool. Mohamed was originally initiated into Eccleston Lodge in London back in 1986 and has been a member of Heugh lodge in Hartlepool since 1988. Originally from Egypt, Mohamed came to the UK in 1971 and eventually settled in Hartlepool. He trained at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in Queens Gynaecology Clinic, where he then worked at the Department of Reproductive medicine/research from 1977 to 1986 as registrar in obstetrics & gynaecology, then as senior registrar/lecturer at the same hospital and at the Royal London Hospital, which was a combined post with the medical school. He also worked at the North Middlesex Hospital in London until he was appointed as a Consultant at Hartlepool in 1988.

At Hartlepool, Mohamed was involved in setting up an In-Vitro Fertilisation Service (IVF), which was the 31st clinic in the country and achieved the delivery of the first test tube baby in the North in 1989. This was only 11 years after the first IVF baby in the world. Mohamed’s family, friends and community of Hartlepool campaigned to raise thousands of pounds to acquire the equipment to establish a very high standard laboratory necessary for the service.

It soon became one of the most successful clinics in the country and put Hartlepool to a position of prominence in the medical world.

Mohamed also acted as the clinical director for the department for nine years during which he installed the first quality management system in the country for the Hartlepool maternity department.

Mohamed Menabawey - Freemason and Freeman

Mohamed took early retirement from the NHS and worked for 3 years as Medical Director and Consultant at one of the largest IVF and Genetics clinics in London, Bridge Fertility and Genetics clinic. After his final retirement from active medicine approximately three years ago he was appointed a medical member of the Judiciary at the Department of Justice. Over the years Mohamed has spent a vast amount of time and effort to prevent the closure of the fertility and maternity services in Hartlepool, working with friends, colleagues and the local council, and is also a trustee of a pressure/hospital support group NEED (North East Empowerment and Diversity).

Air Ambulance for that year. Mohamed and his wife are often involved in organising events to raise money for various charities which include McMillan Nurses and Cancer Research as well as supporting Copts in Need, which is a UK registered charity that cares for the poor and war victims in the Middle East and Africa.

Mohamed also finds the time to garden, play chess and backgammon, and particularly enjoys reading philosophy and history.

Mohamed affirms that Masonry has enriched his life and, to him, is friendship and an organisation where barriers do not exist. Mohamed feels that he could not have succeeded without the support he has from his friends.

Mohamed has been a member of the Rotary club since 1990, where he has also served as president, and he and his wife supported the

In May 2017 Mohamed Menabawey was awarded the status of Freeman of Hartlepool.

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A MESSAGE FROM THE FESTIVAL DIRECTOR Brethren, with only 16 months into our 5 year campaign I’m pleased to announce that already we have reached the half way mark towards our target; we now have over £1.4M in donations.

Brethren, with only 16 months into our 5 year campaign I’m pleased to announce that we have reached the half way mark towards our target; we now have over £1.4M in donations. The support from Durham brethren is, as usual, outstanding. I have travelled to all parts of our Province over the past couple of years and the enthusiasm is clear to see. But please don’t think the job is done! As I said, we are only half way there. Please continue to support your Charity

Steward, please push for your lodge to reach the next achievement award. We have 30 cyclists and 33 runners who have committed time and effort to raise money for our Festival. If they can do it, so can you. Our festival team is here to help you with your fundraising efforts so please get in touch if you need advice on sponsorship or leaflets, videos or if you want a lodge presentation.

TIME IS RUNNING OUT! Many of our brethren are giving continuously and have pledged £480 and become a Steward of the Festival. This currently stands at £10 per month over 48 months. From July of this year, to enable the funds to be received and cleared before our festival ends, the monthly amount for new direct debits would need to be £13.40 over 36 months. So please sign up now. Festival jewels will also be presented to those who have

raised the same qualifying figure by a sponsorship event.

We also have brethren who have given generously over the past years and their direct debits are now finished and have just fallen short of the qualifying figure. If you think this may apply to you and would like to know exactly how much you have given please contact our Festival Secretary paul.quinn@durham2021.org.

£10 PER MONTH

LOOKING FOR HELP OR ADVICE? If you or someone you know is in need of help, please call the MCF confidential enquiry line on: 0800 035 60 90 or email on info@mcf.org.uk Read more about the MCF grants for Masonic families at: www.mcf.org.uk/support

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END OF AN ERA

AT SHINEY ROW MASONIC HALL After 32 years as Stewards, Trevor and Carol Barnes are retiring in July from Shiney Row Masonic Hall. To say they are part of the fabric of the building would be an understatement.

A lot of life’s celebrations have taken place at the hall, from engagements, weddings, Christenings, anniversaries, retirement celebrations to the final journey of funeral teas.

Hall for 5 years prior to their starting at Shiney Row. After a 2-year stint at Burdon Road in Sunderland from 1992-94, they returned to Shiney Row. One of the highlights for them over the years was the opening of Peter Stracey House in Sunderland, as they had the great honour and privilege of catering for the Duke of Kent when he opened the facility.

Trevor and Carol have had some connection with Masonic Halls, in one way or another, for as long as they can remember. As a courting couple they both washed dishes in Chester le Street Masonic Hall for pin money. Trevor was a part-time barman at Durham Masonic

Reflecting on their 32 years, they remember the 100-plus numbers at all the lodges’ festive

They served us well

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boards and a masonic function every weekend. Trevor was a 5th generation Earl of Durham mason but, with a young family and his work-life balance, he unfortunately had to resign from it.

Carol is perhaps most famous for her trifles. In the 25 years that Sportsman’s Lodge has been in existence they have never changed the dessert, with the trifle becoming a staple of the lodge.

They have been tremendous servants to all the lodges and Masons in the building, and they leave with some wonderful memories of great friends and friendships, making everyone in Shiney Row feel they were all part of their family.

It is perhaps only fitting that their final meeting will be Bedic Lodge’s July meeting, mirroring their first meeting in Shiney Row which was at Bedic Lodge’s July meeting some 32 happy years earlier.

RAISING THE STANDARD Relaxing on the golf course, David Hanson reflects on a very special year of his Masonic journey. On Wednesday 27th April, he walked into the impressive building of Grand Lodge in London and, full of excitement and with adrenalin flowing, he asked the receptionist where the acting Grand Officers go to sign in. He followed her instructions, going through the maze of corridors, before entering a room full of brethren wearing highly decorated aprons. He felt like a “rabbit in the headlights” but, thankfully, one of the Assistant Provincial Grand Masters of Durham, Stephen Walker, who was acting Junior Deacon, spotted him and put him at ease.

To be Invested with the Grand Standard Bearer’s chain of office by the Grand Master, HRH the Duke of Kent, was a very proud and humbling experience. Once the Grand Master had completed the Investiture with his address, he then closed Grand Lodge in solemn form; the Grand Director of Ceremonies ordered “Brethren, two verses of the National Anthem“ and, as the grand organ struck up, the sound of 1,700 brethren in full voice singing the National Anthem, made the hairs stand up on the back of one’s neck. After the Annual Investiture meeting, the brethren retired to the adjoining Connaught Rooms for lunch.

June, being David’s first Quarterly Communication and working meeting, saw the acting officers summoned to the Grand Temple for a 10:15am rehearsal with the Grand Director of Ceremonies.

After re-finding his way to the Acting Officers’ robing room, where two brethren were organising the aprons and chains of office for the brethren to wear in Grand Lodge, David went into the spectacular temple in Grand

Lodge and practised walking up and down the five stairs to the dais without looking down, thankfully without any stumbles.

At 10:15am precisely, the Grand Director of Ceremonies entered the lodge room and instructed all to take up their seats prior to the commencement of rehearsals, beginning with the Grand Stewards, Deacons, Wardens and Sword Bearer, in a formidable manner. David and his fellow Standard Bearer were next in line and followed the Director of Ceremonies’ instructions without any hiccups, quickly being signed off as ready for the ‘real deal’.

At 11:40am prompt, a Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies came into the Acting Officers’ robing room requesting “Silence”; you could hear a pin drop and even the Provincial Grand Masters went silent. The DepGDC called the procession to order; acting officers first followed by Provincial Grand Masters, determined by their year of appointment with the most senior to the rear.

The procession corridor has

David Hanson - Raising the Standard

an ornate ceiling, with highly polished wood panelled walls and 44 yards of marble floor. The Standard Bearers were positioned at the back of the procession behind the Sword Bearer and two yards behind the Pro Grand Master, Peter Geoffrey Lowndes, who was presiding. Reflecting on the ceremony David said: “I remember the order ‘Forward Brethren’ the only sound was that of shoe leather on the tiled floor … in time, of course! At the end of the corridor remembering to drop the standard as it went through a set of doors, walking another 22 yards before a turn to the right, advancing into the Grand Temple, another 29 yards to those daunting five steps and then placing the standard in its rightful position.”

The procession out of Grand Lodge is again conducted by the Grand DC who calls for the acting officers to take their places at the relevant time; as Standard Bearer it is a case of putting into practice what you have rehearsed, and concentrate. Once back in the robing room there was a buzz of activity with brethren removing their aprons and tail coats with

a sense of achievement that the first working meeting has been successful.

September, December and March Quarterly Communications were special in their own way and he had still not fallen up or down those five steps!

In no time at all, 26th April 2017 had arrived, the day another brother would be taking over the role of Grand Standard Bearer and, with the Grand Master presiding, it was a day that David will never forget.

“To carry the United Grand Lodge of England’s Standard was an honour, privilege and an experience I will cherish for a lifetime”.

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Left to right Paul Quin, Richard Mews, Philip Carrigan-Mews, John Thompson

A VERY EMOTIONAL NIGHT IN STANHOPE You will remember last issue we covered the story of two orphaned boys from Stanhope who were supported by the Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys. Well the story continues…..

The Provincial Grand Master, the Festival Director and Festival Secretary made the trip to Stanhope Lodge with many others on 10th May to witness the true benefits of Freemasonry. The lodge had two distinguished guests in Philip Carrigan-Mews and his brother Richard. Philip is the author of the book Orphan Boys which recounts the story of Philip and his brothers when, as small boys, they lost their mother and father. Philip gave readings from his book to a very attentive room, explaining how local Freemasons supported the family and how the boys Philip and Roger were educated at Barnard Castle School, all paid for by the RMTGB (now the Masonic Charitable Foundation) whilst their 18

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year-old brother Richard stayed at home to run the family farm. Philip also took the opportunity to thank Bill Holden and Bill Hobson and all the members of Stanhope Lodge for the kind support they had given to the family over the years, and for the chance to visit and thank everyone personally.

Recently, tragedy struck the family once again with the death in late 2016 of Roger, the youngest of the three brothers. A collection by family and friends, which raised the tremendous sum of £3655.64, was made in memory of Roger, and was duly donated to the RMTGB in recognition of their kind support of the family over the years. Richard Mews,

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on behalf of the brothers, presented a certificate to commemorate the donation to the Festival. The PGM, Eric Heaviside, thanked them for sharing the tragic story with everyone and for the generous donation to the Festival.

we have and how grateful we are to have the Masonic Charitable Foundation.”

Philip’s book Orphan Boys will be out in paperback in June, but is available to download now at www.amazon.co.uk

Later in the evening at the festive board Festival Director, John Thompson, presented honorary Festival Steward Jewels to both Richard (left) and Philip (right) as a mark of gratitude from the festival team.

John commented “We often ask a lot from Durham Freemasons in the name of charity, but meeting and listening to Philip’s story really does make us appreciate what

Orphan Boys

KINDRED LODGES Indaba Lodge, which meets in Darlington, was privileged this year to host the Spring Festival of the Kindred Lodge Association (KLA). The KLA is made up of 36 lodges from all over England and Wales who have an affiliation with youth organisations such as the Scouts and the Boys Brigade, as well as links to lodges and like-minded Freemasons overseas, including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Holland, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, and the United States of America.

KLA Crest

Kindred Mascot

The Association was formed back in 1952, originally by six Scouting lodges, in order to link together those lodges formed by, or including, Freemasons who are, or were, involved in Youth organisations. The prime activity, other than encouraging inter-lodge visiting, is to share their experiences and to dress for these special meetings in the current uniform (neckers, woggles, aprons and collars) of their respective youth organisation. There are two member lodges of the KLA in Durham: Indaba, of course, as well as one of the original founder lodges, Quest lodge, which

meets in Seaham; they both wear uniforms at their respective fraternal September Meetings.

Over 110 guests from 50 lodges attended, from as far as Kent, Dorset, Wales, Devon and Yorkshire. The dignitaries In attendance from the Kindred Lodge Association were Steve Gough, the Chairman, Brian Hughes, the Secretary, Alan Beavis , the Treasurer, Tony Harvey, the liaison officer between the Scout Association and United Grand Lodge of England, and of course our own Provincial Grand Master, Norman Eric Heaviside.

Kindred Brothers proudly gather in Regalia

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WHAT A CATCH! Derwent reservoir was again host for City Lodge’s Charity Fishing Day, organised by Mark Hoynes.

Although the weather was not ideal, there was a good turnout from both Masons and nonMasons who, from all accounts, had a great day’s fishing with everyone catching. At 4pm all contestants returned to the fishing lodge for the weigh-in. After a quick calculation, prizes were handed out to the overall winner - Derek Hodgson; for heaviest fish of the day - Steve McCallum; for heaviest bag caught by fly fishing - Stuart Sorrel and for heaviest bag that was caught on bait - Derek Hodgson. A princely sum of £180 was raised on the day for the 2021 Festival, so look out for the future fishing events; it’s a great day out for all.

l Derek Hodgson overal

winner

Stuart So rrel winn er heaviest fish caug of the ht on fly

h the Steve McCallum wit heaviest fish of the day

Best Dressed Fisher Mason s

es the count Mark complet

ROLL OF HONOUR 60 Years Craft: Peter William Smailes, Frederick Henry Clarkson,

Marquess of Ripon No1379 Strathmore No6229

50 Years Craft: Robert Hepple Thomas Barrass Joseph W White Colin M Fitzpatrick Gerald Cockayne Joseph Laidler Brian Allen Peter D Jones Frederick J Walker William Feldon William Charles Raine

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Coronation No2929 Sancroft No4347 Corinthian No5808 Pele Tower No4435 Roger de Ferry No5879 Palatine No97 Gyrwy No6462 Ryton Holy Cross No4231 Beacon No6891 Tristram No2415 Yoden No5684

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

Ronald Crossley Norman Bainbridge, John Moodie Reginald William Villiers John G Spoor William Charles Stewart Norman William Trattles

Palatine No97 County No6678 Lodge of Industry No48 St Cuthbert No3417 Eslington No4623 Lambton No375 Tees lodge No509

60 Years Royal Arch: John Vincent Spencer Fredrick Whitwood

Hebburn No1643 Constance No2135

50 Years Royal Arch: John E W Cumpson John Derick Moses

Constance No2135 Norman No1334

TALKING NEWS Representing the Freemasons of Durham, Kevin Williams accompanied by Stewart Bell, had the very pleasing duty of presenting a Community Support Grant for £1,500 to the Darlington and District Talking Newspaper Association.

The Chairman, David Smith, and committee members, Pat Walker and David Roberts, were delighted to receive another grant from the Durham Freemasons, and welcomed the support given to them. A registered charity, it was established in 1979 as a service to the visually impaired in the Darlington area. The service is available free of cost to anyone who cannot read because of disability.

CDs and memory sticks carrying local news items are sent out every week. Our very own Provincial Gazette, which is published quarterly and is delivered to every Freemason within the Province, is also converted to audio by the service and is available as a download.

Darlington Talking Newspaper is one of over five hundred such

organisations throughout the country.

Each Talking Newspaper is independent but they may share the services and information provided by the Talking Newspaper Federation (TNF). When Darlington Talking Newspaper first began it was based in a room at the local College of Technology and only 20 listeners received the weekly tape.

The Talking Newspaper moved to Bennett House in Darlington town centre where they stayed for many years. The final move was to the premises of The Northern Echo, who provide space for a studio and office.

The Talking Newspaper is the one way that a blind or partially sighted person can independently

From Left Pat Walker, David Roberts, Kevin and Chairman David Smith.

access the news of the week for themselves.

If you wish to join their mailing list and receive our FREE weekly recordings on CD or memory stick, or if you know someone who does, please contact: telephone

01325 465101 or email dtnewspaper@outlook.com.

New listeners will receive a short introductory CD which contains useful information about the Talking Newspaper and our service.

JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED The Houghton Area Youth Band were recently awarded a grant of £1000 by the Durham Benevolent Committee towards the purchase of new equipment.

George Tilley, who is a member of the Benevolent committee, couldn’t wait to present the cheque and came along to their Open Day just weeks after having undergone major heart surgery, and presented the cheque to his two granddaughters, Hannah 11 and Sally 9, who are both band members.

Houghton Area Youth Band

Formed in 1973, Houghton Area Youth Band provides opportunities for young people to meet, have fun and play music; with 30 players between the ages of 6-18 they welcome any

youngsters who already play a brass instrument or percussion.

They practice on Saturday mornings (term time) from 10 am - 12.00 noon at Hetton Lyons Primary School, Hetton le Hole.

George with granddaughters Sally and Hannah

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SQUARING THE MASONIC CIRCLE For more than 4 years now, Northumbria Blood Bikes have been patrolling the streets between Cleveland, Cumbria and the Borders to deliver their precious cargo of blood and other medical supplies to North East hospitals and healthcare sites. This charitable organisation is manned by volunteers who help with riding, driving, shift coordination, fundraising and admin support, and who give their time to serve the community. Not surprisingly, the organisation counts several Freemasons amongst their number.

Not content with the time and effort devoted to masonic orders and roles, APGM John Watts is proud to put in a shift aboard one of the motorcycles. Despite his police training on other vehicles, John had to put himself through the courses necessary to qualify as an advanced rider that is one of the requirements needed to perform this duty.

Philip Borlace (Left) Treasurer of Eslington Lodge, hands over the most recent donation to John

and the significant contributions from Freemasonry in general certainly helps towards that target.

John takes great pleasure in squaring the masonic circle when presented with individual donations in lodges as well as larger presentations by masonic charitable bodies, all being channelled directly into a local community benefit.

The organisation relies on donations to continue their good work; some ÂŁ5,500 is required each month to run the fleet,

Fundraising in Tesco, Durham city

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TRICYCLES FOR

SUNNINGDALE Edwin Jeffrey (left) and Jim Wilson meet the children.

“A bright spring morning saw Edwin Jeffrey, Jim Wilson and Chris Wilson of Vedra Lodge go along to make a cheque presentation to Sunningdale School on Behalf of Durham Benevolence

Sunningdale School is the Childrens Services sole specialist provider within the City of Sunderland for nursery and primary children aged 2 - 11 with profound, multiple and severe learning needs - that males it very special indeed.

The school meets the demands of a wide range of pupils with learning difficulties, and design a personalised curriculum around identified needs. Funding for specialist equipment is met entirely via voluntary donation. The donation

by Durham Benevolence of £1000 will contribute to developing a fund to provide specialist tricycles for the children’s

enjoyment where riding an ordinary bicycle would not be possible. Mobility in this way is key to the development of confidence in the children who face so many challenges.

Edwin Jeffrey said it was a pleasure to be able to support the school in this way.

He went on to say that it was a privilege to be invited to the school assembly that morning to make the presentation and to see how much enjoyment the children clearly derived from the school and its facilities.

“It was a privilege to be invited to the school assembly that morning to make the presentation and to see how much enjoyment the children clearly derived from the school and its facilities”

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ARTHUR LOCKYEAR MBE Representing Durham Benevolence, Stewart Bell accompanied

by Simon Cowley met with Arthur Lockyear MBE, in the market place in Durham City to present a Community Support Grant for £500 to assist with the funding of the Durham City Remembrance Parade 2017.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Arthur, a retired firefighter, has helped to develop the Durham City Remembrance Day Commemoration into one of the biggest in the country. He was delighted to receive the support from his brother Freemasons, being a Past Master of Norman Lodge which meets in Durham city.

For some 30 years Arthur was involved with the annual Sunderland Remembrance Parade which is regarded as being second in size only to the commemoration held in London, and attracts people from all over the country.

Having been a firefighter in the Fulwell area of Sunderland, Arthur was honoured with the MBE for services to the community. The Durham City parade, includes an ‘all arms’ veterans section, and allows current and past servicemen including Reservist, Merchant Navy, Royal Observer Corps and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary to join in the commemorations. The parade is led by the Rifles who are the successors to the Light Infantry, including the Durham infantry.

Young Player Matthew Jackson receives donation from George

Although Freemasonry at Ryton is on a fairly small scale, the members have for some time tried to engage with the local community and support local projects wherever they can. Their latest efforts involved assisting young people at Ryton Rugby Club; the Club does outstanding work within the community providing a sporting outlet for youngsters from the age of five through to 18.

Arthur and Stewart in front of DLI Memorial

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The Freemasons of Ryton were asked to help with a donation towards the purchase of new shirts for the under 10s team, and quickly set about raising funds culminating with George Clark and Sid Watson from the Hall Management Committee attending the Club on 7th May to present a cheque for £250 to the Club’s young players (boys and girls) who, along with their parents, were overwhelmed by the generosity of Freemasons of Durham.

MEMORIAL REVEALED One in 10 of all Victoria Cross medals awarded during The First World War were awarded to Freemasons and on the 25th April the actions of these brothers in arms was honoured with a special memorial, unveiled

by HRH The Duke of Kent, forming the

highlight of the Grand Lodge’s Tercentenary celebrations.

The 64 included three of the famous ‘Six Before Breakfast’ VCs awarded to members of the 1st Battalion, The Lancashire Fusiliers during their capture of ‘W Beach’ at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915.

The unimaginable courage of these and the other 61 Freemasons who were awarded Great War VCs is now permanently

recognised by new commemorative stones that bear their names and which have been laid so all can see them outside the iconic Freemasons’ Hall in Covent Garden, London.

The new memorial will act as a reminder of the principles of Freemasonry: Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth, these founding principles were demonstrated in great abundance by the 64 ‘Brothers in Arms’ VC holder Freemasons who hailed from all four corners of the globe.

DURHAM BRETHREN RECOGNISED BY GRAND LODGE Wednesday 26th April once more saw brethren from all over the world flock to the spiritual home of Freemasonry, Freemasons Hall in Covent Garden, London, to witness the Annual Investiture meeting of United Grand Lodge.

Amongst the masses was a large contingent of Durham brethren who had headed south to support friends and colleagues receiving Grand Rank First Appointments or Promotions from the Most Worshipful The Grand Master, HRH The Duke of Kent.

We congratulate them on their preferment and wish them the best of health and happiness to enjoy and perform their new duties.

Receiving Craft appointments were: Peter Birtwisle – Amity Lodge No3193 – PAGDC Adam Lamb – Manor Lodge No7908 – PAGDC Brian Footitt, OBE – Haven of Rest No4350 – PAGDC Promoted to Past Grand Junior Deacon Keith Liddell – Crowley Lodge No6901 Alan Farrar – Strathmore Lodge No6229 Promoted to Past Grand Senior Deacon Stephen William Walker – Castle Lodge No6713 Simon Craig Steel – Vedra Lodge No3137

Grand Rank Appointees gather for Roll Call at Provincial Office

ANNUAL CONVOCATION SEES DURHAM COMPANIONS RECEIVE GRAND RANK Thursday 27th April 2017 saw one of the highlights of the Royal Arch calendar as Companions from all over the world gathered at Great Queen Street in London to attend the Annual Investiture Meeting of Supreme Grand Chapter. Amongst those attending were Durham Companions to receive their Grand appointments supported by a good number of friends and colleagues.

The meeting was, as usual a magnificent display of pomp, colour and ceremonial which the Royal Arch Degree demonstrates so well, which was capped off by the Durham Companions being invested with their collars of office by the Most Excellent Pro First Grand Principal Peter Geoffrey Lowndes.

Receiving Royal Arch appointments were: Dr Paul Arthur Mundell – Derwent Chapter No4250 – PGStB Prof George Robin Boy-Stones – Universities No2352 – PGStB Dr John Halshaw – St John and Ashburne No80 – PGStB Godfrey William Hedley – Old Dunelmian No8100 – PAGDC Promoted to PAGSoj was Malcolm Ross – Minerva Chapter of Industry No3385

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THE FIRST 100 YEARS 1717 LONDON Prior to this date most Masonic lodges were a mixture of operative and non-operative or speculative masons meeting independently without any central controlling body.

On 24th June 1717 four lodges met at the Goose and Gridiron Ale-house in St Paul’s Churchyard, agreed to form a Grand Lodge and appointed a Grand Master. There are no existing minutes of Grand Lodge between 1717 and 1723 so the only record of the formation appears in Anderson’s account in the 1738 edition of the Book of Constitutions

1725 IRELAND - The Grand Lodge of Ireland was established.

1725 SWALWELL - Date of the oldest Transaction of the Swalwell Lodge (Industry). The following entry appears “Then Matthew Armstrong and Arthur Douglass, Masons, appeared in ye Lodge of Free Masons and agreed to have their Names Registered as Enterprentices to be accepted next Quarterly Meeting paying One Shilling each for entrance and 7/6 when they take their freedom.”

1734 DURHAM COUNTY – Although the County of Durham became a masonic Province in 1734 by the appointment of Joseph Laycock as its first Grand Master, there was no Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham, until the appointment of William Henry Lambton in 1787.

Bro. Laycock was deputed to preside over the County by the Earl of Crawford, Grand Master. There were several St. John’s Masons in the County but none of them were registered or regular. Bro Laycock ‘constituted’ the first regular lodge for Durham under the Premier Grand Lodge of England at Swalwell in 1735, of which he was Senior Warden. This lodge is now known as the Lodge of Industry, No.48 at Gateshead

1736 SCOTLAND - The Grand Lodge of Scotland was established.

1742 DURHAM - the Foundation Stone of a New Building in Duncow Lane, Durham, for the Marquis of Granby Lodge, was laid. The inscription read as follows:-“This Fabrik is Erected for a Lodge of Freemasons in the Year of Masonry, 5741, Annoque Domini, 1741 In ye 15th year of ye Reign of King George ye Second Honi Soit Qui Mal y Pense.” It will be noted that the date on the Stone does not correspond with the date of the laying, also for reasons not explained the Lodge did not meet in the “Fabrik “until 1768.

claimed that the original Grand Lodge had made innovations. They contemptuously dubbed the first Grand Lodge the Moderns and called themselves the Antients. The two existed side by side for nearly 63 years, neither recognising the other as regular.

1756 STOCKTON - The old “Lodge of Philanthropy” originally a London Lodge, constituted in 1725, as the “Swan and Rummer,” was transferred to Stockton-on Tees. It was agreed at their first meeting that Bro. Thomas Burdon should be the first Master. The last Meeting of this Old Lodge of Philanthropy was on St. John’s Day, 1829.

1757 SUNDERLAND - The Sea Captains Lodge, No. 114. (now Palatine, No. 97), was Constituted by Bro. John Thornhill, Master of the King George’s Lodge, No. 207 (now Phoenix, No. 94). The Warrant was granted by the Marquis of Carnarvon, and the Lodge met at the “Marquis of Carnarvon Head” on the Low Quay, Sunderland, and known as “The Marquis of Carnarvon Lodge.” In March 1830, on the suggestion of Lord Durham, P.G.M., the present title of “ Palatine.” was adopted

1761 DARLINGTON - June 19th Date of Constitution of Lodge No. 263 in Darlington (now Restoration Lodge No 111).

1764 STOCKTON – The W M and members of the old “Lodge of Philanthropy” assisted in the laying of the Foundation stone of Stockton Bridge, a bridge of five arches over the Tees at Yarm.

1770 BARNARD CASTLE - William Hutchinson the great masonic writer and antiquary, author of the world renowned masonic book ‘The Spirit of Freemasonry’, was initiated into the Lodge of Concord no 231. Within ten years of his initiation he’d been Master of the Lodge three times, and first Master of the new Lodge No.461 at Raby. Hutchinson’s work was held in such high esteem by Grand Lodge that much of his phrasing is perpetuated in present day ritual

1772 DURHAM - A bridge over the River Wear (now called Prebends Bridge) belonging to the Dean and Chapter of Durham was rebuilt and the Brethren of the Marquis of Granby Lodge moved in procession to lay the Foundation stone with full masonic honours . The inscription on Stone and Plate read as follows. “This Stone was laid on the 17th of August, Anno Domini 1772, and in the year of Masonry, 5772, by the Honourable and Reverend Spencer Cowper, Dean of Durham”

1773 DARLINGTON - On the 29th May, Lodge No 263 (now 111) moved in procession to a new meeting room in Priestgate. It being “Oak Apple Day” and officially took the name “Restoration,” to commemorate the Restoration of the Monarchy (King Charles II). The Constitution was signed “Aberdour G.M.” and the Lodge has its continuous minute books from December 1769, when Admission was ten shillings and six pence and the Grand Lodge dues two shillings and six pence.

1748 SWALWELL - Born March 6th William Shield the famous

1775 LONDON - Foundation Stone of the first Freemasons’

Musician and Composer who is associated with the following popular songs. “The Thorn,” “ The Wolf,” “Auld Lang Syne,” and many others. Bro. Shield was also master of His Majesty’s band of music, and a member of the St. George’s Lodge, (now Phoenix). He died January 25th 1829, aged 80 years and is buried in Westminster Abbey.

Hall, London, laid by the M.W. Grand Master, Lord Petrie.

1751 LONDON - A rival Grand Lodge was formed by masons who claimed that they practised a more ancient and purer form of Freemasonry. Its original members were mainly Irish Masons who

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1783 SOUTH SHIELDS – St Hilda Lodge agreed by general consent that the expense of a Lodge night should not exceed 6d per Brother. Absent brethren would be fined accordingly `if absent Ye whole night’ WM 1 Shilling, Warden’s 6d, Brethren 3d.

1785 SUNDERLAND The present Freemasons’ Hall in Queen Street East is believed to be the oldest building in England especially dedicated to purely Masonic purposes and which has a continuous history from I785. The Hall is now designated as an “Ancient Building” and is protected by Act of Parliament, ensuring its preservation for posterity.

1803 STOCKTON - The Provincial Grand Lodge requested that the Lodge (“Lodge of Philanthropy”) should witness and record the laying of the Foundations of Yarm Bridge. For that purpose a Lodge was held at the Black Lion in the township of Egglescliffe, prior to the laying ceremony (This iron bridge of one span subsequently collapsed later).

1806 DURHAM - Bro. Count Joseph Boruwlaski (Polish) elected an Honorary Member of the Granby Lodge. He was an extremely small man, his height being three feet two inches, and for many years resided in a cottage near to Prebends Bridge. He died 5th September, 1837, in his ninety-ninth year, and was interred in the Cathedral.

1806 DURHAM - Dr. William Reid Clanny, an inventor of a 1786 SOUTH SHIELDS - Bro. Henry Francis Greathead, who is famously renowned as the inventor of the lifeboat. He visited St Hilda’s’ Lodge on the May 4th, and afterwards became a subscribing member, holding many offices including secretary.

1787 DURHAM - April 17th Date of Charter of Concord Chapter, No. 124

1788 LONDON - Royal Masonic Institution for Girls was founded

by Chevalier Bartholomew Ruspini. The first Girls Home was at Somers Place in East London.

1789 SUNDERLAND – (Phoenix) Bro. James Field Stanfield, became a Joining Member from an unnamed Lodge in London. Stanfield, a sailor, actor and wine merchant, played a significant part in the life of the town, becoming a leading figure in the foundation of the town’s first Subscription Library. He was an unrecognised hero, whose role in the campaign for the abolition of the slave trade, had a major impact. As an ordinary seaman involved in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade he wrote about its horrors In ‘Observations on a Guinea Voyage’ and the power of this work served to increase public revulsion against the trade.

1788 COUNTY DURHAM - Bro William Henry Lambton MP was installed as the first Provincial Grand Master, creating the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham. The ceremony was carried out in Bro Ebdon’s Long Room in the Bailey, Durham. The first Provincial Officers were appointed and invested at this first meeting, namely the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Chaplain, Treasurer, Secretary and the Architect.

1793 SUNDERLAND - on Tuesday, the 24th of September, W Bro Rowland Burdon M.P, Master of the Sea Captains Lodge (now Palatine) laid the foundation stone of Wearmouth Bridge with full Masonic ceremonial honours, in the presence of the Provincial Grand Master, Bro. William Henry Lambton, M.P., and the Officers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham. Subsequently, three years later, he had the pleasure of acting as Provincial Grand Master, in the presence of HRH Prince William of Gloucester, declaring the bridge open to the public of Sunderland. For 133 years this structure served a useful purpose, but owing to the progress of time and the increased volume of traffic, it has been superseded by a new structure. The Bridge cost an estimated £33,400 to build at that time.

1797 DURHAM - Bro. Andrew Logan joined the Marquis of Granby Lodge, Durham and during the 35 years as a member of the Granby Lodge, he occupied the Chair twenty times, including eighteen years in succession. He was Deputy Provincial Grand Master 18081820.

1800 SUNDERLAND - Stephen George Kemble, Actor-Comedian, was initiated into Phoenix Lodge, and became a Joining Member of the Granby Lodge, Durham. He was Deputy P.G.M., of the Province from 1803 to 1808 and died at Durham in 1822. He was interred in the Nine Altars Chapel in Durham Cathedral.

Miner’s Safety Lamp, was also one of the pioneers in the treatment of Tuberculosis and a founder of the Humane Society. He was Initiated into the Marquis of Granby Lodge, and later became a joining Member of both the Phoenix and Palatine Lodges, Sunderland.

1806 SUNDERLAND - St Johns Lodge was Consecrated and off to fine start – 7 meetings the first month – 40 in the first year and at one meeting, three years later, 3 first, 5 second and 5 third degree ceremonies were performed. These must have been late nights and their wives must have been very patient in those days.

1809 DURHAM - Foundation Stone of Durham Gaol and Law Courts laid, by Bro. Sir Henry Vane Tempest, Bart., in the absence of the Provincial Grand Master, Sir Ralph Milbanke, Bart., assisted by Ralph John Lambton, as Deputy Provincial Grand Master.

1810 DURHAM - Marquis of Granby Hall foundation stone, laid by the Provincial Grand Master, Sir Ralph Milbank, Bart., on 25th October.

The stone was situated at the foot of Chapel Passage, Old Elvet. The hall was opened and dedicated the following year.

1813 LONDON - 27th December After four years of negotiation, the two Grand Lodges in England united to form the United Grand Lodge of England. This union allowed the introduction of standardisation of the ritual, procedures and regalia of both the Craft and Royal Arch.

After 1813 SUNDERLAND - In the minutes of Palatine Lodge Bros Hardy and Hodson were deputed to go to London to see the agreed ritual work. On their return to Sunderland they instructed the Brethren in Palatine Lodge in the new working and then at later date demonstrated the improved ceremony of making a mason to the Brethren of the Marquis of Granby Lodge No 124, Durham.

1814 DURHAM October 26th John George Lambton, Esq., M.P., was initiated, passed and raised in the Marquis of Granby Lodge, No. 124.

1817 COUNTY DURHAM - by this date there had been some 17 lodges consecrated in the Province and the following lodges had been erased - Fountain, Square & Compasses, St Bede’s, Lodge of Harmony and Raby Lodge.

The Provincial Grand Master of The Province of Durham at this time was Sir Ralph Milbanke, Bart.

Further details of any of the above can be obtained from Provincial Museum and Library, 8 The Esplanade, Sunderland.

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PARENTS IN NEED OF SUPPORT Brain Footitt and Allen Waller presented a Community Support Grant of £1000 to the group, “Parents In Need of Support” (PINS). Receiving the grant were Steve Mudd and Colin Watts who are representatives of PINS, which is a Charity working in Hartlepool to support families who are affected by their child’s drug or alcohol misuse. The workers are trained and fully implement the Community Reinforcement and Family Training program (CRAFT) into client care plans. The organisation was established in 1996 to offer a wide range of services including practical and emotional support, advice, information and training. They have five members of staff and a team of volunteers, many of whom are parents themselves who have been affected by their son’s or daughter’s addiction, and have gone on to train as support workers to help others in a similar situation.

Their Mission is to offer support for the benefit of the public, parents and carers in Hartlepool whose family members are involved with, or at risk of, drug or alcohol misuse through support, advice and information. The service is totally confidential and arrangements can be made to meet in a person’s home or a venue of their choosing where they can feel relaxed and comfortable. Many parents simply call into the office where a pleasant informal

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environment is provided so they can chat openly to a support worker or pick up some information regarding drug or alcohol issues from our intensive library of books, DVDs, CDs, and leaflets.

PINS also work with other many vital support services, one of which is the Missing People Charity.

From left, Allen Waller, Steve Mudd, Colin Watts and Brian Footitt

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DATES FOR THE DIARY

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

JUNE

17 JUNE

24 JULY

22 AUGUST

12 AUGUST

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SATURDAY 17TH JUNE 2017 Craft AGM, Lancastrian Suite, Dunston

SEPT

SATURDAY 24TH JUNE 2017 Open Halls /Teddy Bear Picnic Weekend

SEPT

SATURDAY 22ND JULY 2017 Masonic 300 Classic Car Meeting.

Tanfield Railway

SATURDAY 12TH AUGUST 2017 Party in the Park Wynyard Hall

21ST- 25TH AUGUST 2017 Jurassic Coast Youth Adventure

1 7 SEPT

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1ST- 7TH SEPTEMBER 2017 Historic Publicity Display Durham Cathedral

Murdoch, Geoffrey Lodge of Fellowship No9694

THURSDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2017 Dedication Service Durham Cathedral

Officers of Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham

SUNDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER 2017 Festival Team Great North Run

Burns, Wildred Liddle Chapter No3616

Allan, Donald St Paul No3242 Crozier, John William Peace and Unity No6312 Dawson, William Nautilus No4259 Dowson, Colin Temperance No4115

SEPT

15 NOV

30

FRIDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER 2017 Festival Golf Day Ramside Hall

THURSDAY 30TH NOVEMBER 2017 Craft Promotions Meeting Lancastrian Suite, Dunston

Freer, Henry St Oswald No4260 Grieves, Thomas Wilson Heugh No7773 Hall, Barrie King Oswald No7344 Hepple, Robert Coronation No2929 Howie, William Crombie Connaught No2981 Lambert, Sidney Albion No5530 Malpass, Colin St Aidan No 4080 McQuillin, Melville James Minerva No3385 Roberts, Eric St Cuthbert No3417 Scott, Michael Ravensworth No2674 Shotton, Gerald Duncan Eardulph No6645 Tarn, Joseph Chipchase Corinthian No5808

Brethren Edwards, Michael Lodge of Loyalty No8635 Hutchinson, Melvin George Eardulph No6645 Matthews, Christopher Claude Eardulph No6645 Thirlaway, John Clough Coronation No2929

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Dance Group at Butlins

PERFORMING ARTS GETS BOOST Danielle Campbell Dance Enterprise is a performing arts school based in Sunderland. They perform regularly at the Sunderland Empire Theatre as well as offering entertainment for the elderly in various care homes across the North East.

Many of the pupils over the years have taken up careers in performing arts, and several have gone on to perform in West End shows in London and other theatres all over the world.

Every year, at the beginning of June, a group of the pupils, along with their parents, go on an annual trip to Butlins in Skegness to attend the British Theatre Dance Association event. This is where all the schools get the chance to come together and take part in lectures and workshops with professional choreographers. The kids have great fun learning lots of new routines and gain valuable experience by doing this, with

the chance to showcase the school in a cabaret show on the last night.

Over the last couple of years, prices have been increasing drastically, then there’s food and spending money and, on top of it all, there is the cost of transport.

With the economic climate the way it is, many families are struggling financially and this can affect the children’s training and opportunities. So Danielle wrote

Diane with Kevin Carter

to Durham Benevolence community support grants committee, and was thrilled to receive a grant of £1000 delivered by Kevin Carter - to help with the travelling costs. The parents and pupils were absolutely thrilled, and can’t express enough how grateful they are, and how much this has helped so many families to be able to attend the event this year.

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE IS 31ST JULY 2017 NEWS@NEWS.PGLDURHAM.ORG

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

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