WK News On-Line – Issue 5

No 5

The Magazine of the Masonic Province of West Kent

June 2013

Joint Invicta Award Winners!

W Bro ‘Norman’ Mullener receives his citation from the PGM, RW Bro Jonathan Winpenny

W Bro Terry Millard

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HE INVICTA AWARD was the brainchild of Simon Waley and was inaugurated as a personal award from the Provincial Grand Master of West Kent back in 1987. The first recipient was Cyril Maddison-Roberts who received the citation at the 1988 Annual Festival.

A full list of holders of this highly-prized award can be seen in the Provincial Manual.

For the first time in its history, the award was made to two recipients this year: W Bro Eric Mullener (known as Norman) and W Bro Terry Millard.

Norman is a member of Union Waterloo Lodge 13, amongst others and is a well-known organist; Terry is a member of Woolwich Polytechnic Lodge 3578, amongst others and is best known for his work with Prince George Duke of Kent Court, where he has been a committee member and Secretary for many years.

Norman’s award was presented ‘in the field’ as he was unable to attend the Festival at Freemason’s Hall due to ill health, but Terry received his award in the traditional manner.

The citation, signed by the PGM, reads: “Whereas it has been represented to me, your long, devoted and outstanding services to this Province, and to your Lodges; it gives me great pleasure in presenting you, in recognition of those services, my personal “West Kent Invicta Award”. May you have many years to wear it with pride and, in the thought that you will undoubtedly continue with your unstinting efforts, I extend to you my heartiest and fraternal congratulations.” for public and charitable services. Paul is the General Secretary of the Firefighters Memorial Trust, which provides and maintains national memorials/monuments/chapels/remembrance records relating to fallen firefighters and promotes and attends memorial services.

Her Majesty The Queen honours Kent Freemason W Bro Paul Settle, a Founder Member of Braidwood Lodge 9802 has been appointed MBE

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MASONIC TROUT AND SALMON FISHING CHARITY In May I was invited to the first Charity day for this year which was held at Springhill Lakes near Matfield.

The lake in use was quite small and so the group of nine young people from Ifield School in Gravesend was ideal. When I arrived the children had already watched a safety video and been kitted out with their baseball caps and sunglasses, to avoid any risk of injury from illdirected casts, and were settled around the lake. Each child had a caster with them and there were already fish caught.

The casters were extremely patient, as keen to catch fish as the children, and did an excellent job; by the time lunch was announced most children were able to go home with a fish supper in their bags. The setting for the day was a small, peaceful valley which in itself provided a contrast to the lives of the children, and although the day is organised through the Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity, several of the casters were not Freemasons, but were anglers keen to support the work done with the children.

While the children were busy at the lake, another group of supporters were busy cooking lunch and preparing the prize-giving. The children had obviously had a busy morning as the barbecued lunch of chicken, burgers, sausages, salads, etc. etc. was soon demolished, and the apple pies and gateaux quickly followed.

All the children were then presented with a certificate and a box of sweets, and medals presented to the best caster and the child who caught the biggest fish.

At the end the Staff who had accompanied the children expressed their thanks and said that it was the best-organised and enjoyable day they could remember attending. There were then many photographs taken before they departed.

Our late Brother and Companion Alan Game was the driving force behind this Charity being extended to West Kent, and to see the young people enjoying such a great experience is a wonderful tribute to him and all that he has established.

Each fishing Day costs about £500 to arrange, including catering etc., plus an army of volunteers to give their time and skills to provide a super day for challenged young people. Three days have been arranged for this year. The team rely on our donations so please consider this charity in your charitable giving and if you would like to donate, the Treasurer Ken Parry-Husbands will be delighted and can be contacted on:

kennethparryhusbands@btinternet.com Brian Saunders The MTSFC now operates in 26 Provinces. If you want further information about this wonderful Masonic charity, they have their own website: MTSFC or you can contact the Branch Secretary, James Lark on 01732 354 581 or 07812 596 194 The next two events in West Kent are:  Thursday 4th July at Trosley Fly Fishers  Thursday 12th September at Yew Tree Trout Fishery

In this issue: Invicta Awards ........................................... 1 MTSFC ...................................................... 2 Supporting Masonic Families (MSF) ............... 3 Charity Matters .......................................... 4 Kart Grand Prix/Raft Race............................ 5 2015 Festival Update/Golden Mile ................. 6 Late News/Next Issue ................................. 7 Royal Arch News ........................................ 8 Annual RA Meeting ................................. 8 Recruitment & Retention ......................... 9 Provincial Chapter Meeting ..................... 10 Bi-Centenary/Sevenoaks Centre CoI ........ 11 Congratulations ......................................... 12 WK Masonic Sports Association Cricket ................................................. 13 Clay Shooting ....................................... 14 Golf ..................................................... 15 Around the Centres .................................... 18 Passed to Higher Service ............................ 19 Alan Game................................................ 20 Commission for Appeals Courts ................... 21 Freemasonry in the Community................... 22 Masonic Miscellany .................................... 23 RMBI in Action .......................................... 26 More Masonic Miscellany Gordon Bennett 2003 ............................. 27 Masonic Research ...................................... 28 The deadline for Issue 6 of West Kent News On-Line is Saturday 31st August All contributions should be sent to : Provincial Information Officer

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Supporting Masonic Families in West Kent

The Masonic Samaritan Fund (MSF) is a health and care charity for Freemasons, their wives, partners widows and dependants. Since the MSF began, the charity has touched the lives of over 9,000 individuals by providing medical, dental, counseling, mobility and respite care grants.

As well as providing grants to cover the associated costs of a diagnosed health or care need, the MSF funds medical research projects which aim to find a cure to many of the illnesses and disabilities that affect Masonic families and the wider community.

So far this year the MSF has provided 19 grants in support of applicants from West Kent.

Freemasons, their wives, partners, widows and dependent family members in West Kent can apply for a grant if they have a diagnosed health or care need and, faced with over 12 weeks wait for treatment, care or support are unable to afford their own private care.

For more information, please call 020 7404 1550, talk with your Lodge Almoner or visit www.msfund.org.uk Waiting over 8 weeks to be seen by a consultant?

A long wait for a formal diagnosis of your health problem can be frustrating and frightening. MSF can now offer a consultation and assessment grant to cover the costs of an initial consultation and most associated tests if required, up to a total cost of £500. There are no forms to complete or financial assessment required. Simply call the Fund to discuss your eligibility today.

Helping those InNeed

Medical Research Grants

Twice annually the MSF’s newsletter InNeed is published to highlight our achievements and share stories from those we have helped. For a sneak preview of the latest edition online, visit our website at: http://www.msfund.org.uk/ newsletters/flipbook/35/

£60k for Marie Curie’s Palliative Care Study £26k grant for early Alzheimer’s treatment £34k to help improve Prostate Cancer survival

A part of our history A part of our history was caught on camera when Her Majesty the Queen left hospital escorted by a nurse wearing a Masonic belt buckle, denoting she trained at the Royal Masonic Hospital. The MSF was established in 1990 to take on the role of the Royal Masonic Hospital after its closure in 1996. Previously, Freemasons were required to attend the RMH in London to receive the treatment, care and support they required. Since the MSF began, grants are now available for applicants to enable them to receive health and care funding in their Province without undue delay or expense.

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Charity Matters As the chairman of the Provincial Charity Committee I should like to remind you of one of the functions of this committee. We seek quality applications for grants to non-Masonic charities based in West Kent where we feel our grant will make an appreciable difference. We rely on applications being sent in from Lodges and Chapters in our Province. You can download an application form from the Provincial website: www.freemasons-westkent.org.uk which outlines the criteria we apply when considering applications.

The funds are from income derived from the Provincial Benevolent Fund, which is earmarked for these very good causes and cannot be used for the Festival. Incidentally, this charity fund in the Province was boosted via fundraising between the last two Festivals and following the current MSF initiative in 2015, you may find the emphasis returns again to supporting local and Brethren’s favourite charities.

If you are aware of any cause you wish us to consider please contact the Provincial Charity Steward on philipmay@homecall.co.uk, or get your Charity Steward or Secretary/Scribe to contact him.

We are keen to hear from you so talk to your members and contact us soon.

Brethren and Companions,

Sincerely and fraternally,

Whilst we are in festival you will naturally wish to support the Province and the MSF and that may restrict your ability to support non-Masonic charities, this is where we can help.

Douglas B Hughes APGM Chairman, Provincial Charity Committee

Freemasons Grand Charity - Kent Air Ambulance W Bro Roland Stokes.

Afterwards the pilot gave Roland a resumé of the working day of the helicopter including the very precise maintenance necessary and the dangerous rescues involved. In future the aim is to provide 24-hour cover, but first they must undergo a 2-year trial to ensure safe practice.

Roland also spoke to the doctor and paramedic who provided an insight into the type of difficulties experienced and the various incidents they attend.

This was just one of the donations from the Freemasons Grand Charity, which supports local charities throughout the country. Earlier in the year Roland presented £3,000 to “The Hospice in the Weald”, another incredibly worthwhile cause.

A cheque for £4,000 was presented to “Kent Air Ambulance” at their Marden headquarters by

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2015 Festival Go Kart Grand Prix

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HE ANNUAL Kart Grand Prix was held at Buckmore Park on Wednesday 5th June 2013, again organised by W Bro Roland Stokes for the West Kent Lodge of Charity No 9610. Over 20 teams took part, including a guest team from the Province of East Kent.

It was the first dry and bright evening experienced since the event’s inception, 10 years ago, and produced some of the best

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racing ever seen.

The winning team, “Sidcup Strollers”, achieved an incredible 133 laps in the two-hour race, with an average speed of 49.5 mph.

Second was “Nunn Better” and third “The Dark Side” (Province of East Kent).

A good night was enjoyed by all attending and £1,200 was raised, which will of course go to the 2015 Festival.

Annual Provincial Raft Race

HE West Kent Lodge of Charity 9610, in conjunction with Kim and Phil of the Pier Hotel, Greenhithe are again hosting the annual Provincial Raft Race which is to be held on Saturday 7th September 2013.

We are seeking entries from all Lodges and Chapters and places will be allocated on a first come–first served basis. To encourage support from spectators each raft will clearly numbered and we hope to organise a sweepstake draw with a single prize of up to £500.

Further details, an Entry Form and a ‘Gift Aid’ sponsorship form are available on the Provincial website if you wish to attend, take part or support your Lodge or Chapter.

Doug Hughes, APGM has kindly agreed to start the race, and to make the presentation to the winning team. Competition will be fierce for the much-coveted Provincial Raft Race trophy, so make your application without delay.

There will be a Grand Prize Draw - for tickets contact Terry Russell at: tg.russell@ntlworld.com We look forward to seeing you at the Raft Race on 7th September helping to raise funds for the local Sea Scout Group and the 2015 Festival.

Philip May Provincial Grand Charity Steward Click on the entries below for: Further Details Entry Form Sponsorship Form Grand Prize Draw

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2015 Festival

TO encourage Lodges and Chapters to maintain support and transfer funds held with the Grand Charity in the Relief Chest scheme to the West Kent 2015 Festival the ‘Roll of Honour’ was introduced in January 2012. Many Lodges and Chapters have achieved recognition to date.

The above Lodges and Chapters have qualified to receive a certificate in the ‘Roll of Honour’ and thirty-three Lodges received either their first certificate or an additional progressive certificate at Provincial Grand Lodge on 7th May. A similar presentation will take place for

Chapters at Provincial Grand Chapter in October and each year until 2015 to mark the progress of each Lodge and Chapter from Sapphire through to Diamond.

The qualifying date for Chapters for inclusion this year is Friday 17th August.

Philip May Provincial Grand Charity Steward

Golden Mile Sponsored Walk THE West Kent Lodge of Charity 9610 has devised many ways to raise money for the 2015 Festival. On Sunday 21st April 2013, having previously postponed it due to inclement weather, the Lodge was pleased to host the Golden Mile sponsored walk at Oakley House.

Amongst the many who took part were the PGM, RW Bro Jonathan Winpenny and the Chairman of the Provincial Charity Committee, W Bro Douglas Hughes, APGM, who are pictured right. continued on next page West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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2015 Festival Golden Mile Sponsored Walk participants, Freemasons, family and friends, set off on a two-mile hike around the quiet countryside surrounding Oakley House.

The Provincial Grand Master led the way and remained with the front runners for the rest of the walk. Even on such a short course a gap opened up in the field. VW Bro Chris Roberts and his grandson were actually first to cross the finishing line. Stragglers arrived to find the fitter and faster walkers already enjoying a drink in the sunshine.

The desire to raise more money for the 2015 Festival bound the fast and slow together and nobody really minded how long the walk took as everyone celebrated the fact that some £3,500 was raised to add towards the Festival total.

Everyone enjoyed the healthy walk in excellent company and beautiful surroundings.

Well done to all participants and sponsors but also, very importantly, to the West Kent Lodge of Charity 9610!

WM of WK Lodge of Charity 9610, W Bro Keith Clarke and Provincial Grand Charity Steward, W Bro Philip May greeted walkers with a warm smile at registration. continued from previous page

The walkers assembled at 10:00 a.m. for refreshments and briefing. It was a glorious, spring morning and the bad weather of the recent past was almost forgotten. Some 98

Ian Gallehawk

Late News & Next Issue WEST KENT DOES IT AGAIN! As he did last year (see WK News On-Line Issue 2), Ron Salter of Three Columns of Shrewsbury Park 6882, finished first in the ‘Masters Bike Ride’.

The conditions and competition were tougher than last year, but the day as a whole raised a fantastic £20,000 for Lifelites.

A full report and pictures will be published in the next issue.

article on the ‘Red Apron’ and the WK Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge.

Look out for the next issue, which will include an article on the [possible] origins of the red apron itself.

YOUR NEWS Just like Lodge and Chapter Almoners, I can only do my job (as Editor) if you let me know about things; I don’t [yet] have a helicopter to whizz round collecting stories, so do send them to me: PIO@masons-westkent.org.uk

RED APRON In the previous issue (No 4), there was an

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last three meetings?  Do I know why we haven’t seen them?  Have I contacted them?  Have I completed my Chapter succession plan?  Do I know the expectations of all members of the Chapter?

Scribes E  Have I got next season’s business planned?  Have I contacted our feeder Lodges to see if there are any potential contacts?  Is there anything important that I should pass to the members before we next meet?

Lodge RA Reps  Have I completed the questionnaire requested by the RA Support Team?  Do I know the feelings of every Lodge member who has not joined the RA?  Have I followed up on all Lodge members who told me that they were thinking of joining Chapter?

Companions, By the time we get to June most Chapters have held their last meeting of the masonic year and some will not be meeting again until October, which of course means you will not be receiving the important news and information usually conveyed on the risings.

It is here that the electronic aids at our disposal become so important, the web site, eFlashes and eBulletins, Facebook, Twitter and of course WK News On-Line; thankfully none of these close for the summer.

I am still surprised that only circa 3,000 West Kent Freemasons have registered an email address with the Provincial Office and less than 300 have become members of our Facebook page.

It is therefore important that you take note of those important events that are to take place between now and the end of October, all of which will, I am sure, be covered elsewhere in this edition, or at the very least can be found on the Provincial Diary published on the web site.

I would like to make a plea to Chapter Almoners, Scribes E and Lodge RA Reps: would you please use some of your spare time this summer, when the sun is not shining, to update the important “intelligence” you have received this season i.e.:

Companions I can assure you that neither the Provincial Office nor the Executive close for the summer and we are already planning for next season, we are available if you need us.

Bob King Deputy Grand Superintendent

Annual RA Meeting Companions, Following this piece, you will see a note from James Marsh (Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals), giving you lots of reasons to attend this year’s meeting.

The Executive are busy completing their recommendations for the RA Honours to be awarded by the Grand Superintendent in October. This process will be completed in early July and the confirmation letters will be posted by the end of that month.

As always we try to be innovative and create extra interest at this meeting. This year in addition to the investitures, introduction to new Exaltees, Principals procession, Charity Awards and Invicta Award we are going to present Past Assistants to the Principals with a collarette.

Almoners  Which members haven’t we seen for the

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Provinces and has resulted in a number of new initiatives being introduced. The Metropolitan Grand Superintendent suggested in his address at their recent Annual meeting that Chapters should ensure a close contact is kept with their feeder Lodges by regular attendance at their meetings to illustrate to Brethren the links with Royal Arch Freemasonry. In West Kent we have Chapter Representatives in every Lodge to encourage Craft Brethren to consider joining the Royal Arch when the time is right and so complete their journey in Pure Ancient Freemasonry, and our Royal Arch Support Team are in contact with them to support their work.

Chapter Representatives are vital to the continued progress of Exaltees through to our Chapters and regular contact between a Chapter and its feeder Lodges can only help.

Chapters can also stimulate interest by arranging open meetings where Craft Brethren can come along and in particular those who have expressed an interest to Lodge Chapter Representatives. The meetings could include a brief introduction to the Royal Arch and its history as well as an opportunity to chat with members. We are not encouraging Brethren to come straight in to the Royal Arch as soon as they are qualified, although some may wish to, but we want to ensure that Brethren are fully informed about the Royal Arch and know that a warm welcome awaits them in this wonderful Degree when the time is right for them to widen their Masonic circle of friends and complete their Masonic journey.

As well as encouraging new members, the Royal Arch also needs to address the problem of retention of members and our Almoners are the front line of this. Our Chapter Almoners role has changed over recent years and they are now responsible for keeping in contact with those Companions who do not attend meetings. At two recent Provincial Grand Chapter meetings the Second Grand Principal George Pipon Francis suggested that rather than reporting apologies the Scribe E should read out those who have not apologised and it is vital that the Almoner is in touch with these Companions so that they do not just drift away.

As mentioned earlier, it is vital that Brethren join when the time is right for them and they can fully enjoy the benefits and enjoyment that Royal Arch Masonry brings. Lodge Chapter Representatives and the members of the Royal Arch Support Team are working to encourage

Annual RA Meeting continued from previous page

Included in the foregoing will be at least 150 investitures, 20 new Exaltees accompanied by their Chapter Almoners, 73 Principals, at least 25 Charity awards and 8 Past Assistants. If each one of those brings a guest and if every Scribe E and every 2nd and 3rd Principal attends, we will have nearly 1,000 there.

I will settle for half that; wouldn’t it be nice to see 500 in the Temple on this our most important day of the RA year?

I can also offer all 500 a one-off discounted lunch at the Connaught Rooms. Due to a misunderstanding, it has been necessary for this year only to have a luncheon rather than dinner, and to atone for their part in the confusion the Connaught have offered the original dinner menu at a discounted rate.

Please show your support.

Bob King Deputy Grand Superintendent

Recruitment and Retention

THE continuing challenge of recruitment occupies the minds of many throughout the

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extra special occasion and a fitting opening to our anniversary season.

Last year nearly 390 companions attended Provincial Grand Chapter; there is already a ‘buzz’ amongst the companions within the Province who want to mark our anniversary year in style – numbers at this year’s convocation are therefore expected to surpass those of previous years.

The team in the Provincial Office and the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies are already working very hard on preparations for this year’s investiture and we can be confident the event will run seamlessly and to the extremely high standards that we in West Kent have come to expect.

As in previous years, at this year’s meeting there will be a formal procession of MEZs into the Grand Temple.

Wouldn’t it be fantastic to show our support to the Grand Superintendent by having a Principal from every one of his chapters in the procession? Therefore, if you are the MEZ of your chapter please put the 25th October in your diary - if unfortunately you are unable to attend, ask your IPZ, H or J to stand in your stead.

As well as reserved seating for our MEZs, there will also be reserved seating in the Grand Temple for all companions who have been exalted since the last investiture.

The Grand Superintendent has stated that he wants to meet as many of his new companions as possible at this year’s investiture and he will greet formally, a representation of them during the ceremony.

Furthermore, the Grand Superintendent will mark the achievements of those Chapters whose efforts have merited one of the awards (Sapphire, Emerald or Diamond) in their support of the 2015 festival, by presenting a certificate to a representative of each chapter that has qualified for an award this year.

It is clear therefore that there really will be something for everybody at this year’s investiture.

If you have attended in the past you will already know that our Annual Investiture is a magnificent, colourful, ceremonial occasion.

For those who have not attended before, it really is an outstanding, enjoyable spectacle one that is well-worth attending.

Companions, the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent, his Deputy and the rest of the

Recruitment and Retention continued from previous page

this progression and I can assure all the Brethren a wonderful experience and a very warm welcome await when you complete your journey in Pure and Ancient Freemasonry by joining a West Kent Chapter.

Brian Saunders 3rd Provincial Grand Principal

Provincial Chapter Meeting

Companions, On Friday 25th October 2013, the Province of West Kent will hold its Annual Royal Arch Investiture in the Grand Temple at Freemasons’ Hall.

It is the biggest event in West Kent’s Royal Arch calendar; one that is always very wellsupported and one that all Royal Arch Companions in the Province should endeavour to attend.

This coming season will see the 40th anniversary of our Province – as a result, this year’s convocation will I’m sure, prove to be an

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stamped addressed envelope so that we can send your tickets. Tickets will be restricted so please apply as soon as possible. Those who have already registered their interest with the Provincial Office will also need to provide a stamped addressed envelope.

Detailed instructions about the event, location of car parks, timings, etc. will be sent with the tickets in due course. Parking is an issue in Canterbury and you may wish to consider travelling by train; the station is not far from the cathedral. Numbers are limited so please contact the Provincial Office as soon as possible to book your tickets.

Provincial Chapter Meeting continued from previous page

executive team extend to you all a warm invite to our Annual Investiture – we look forward to seeing you all on the day.

Remember, this coming season will see the 40th Anniversary of our Province; let’s mark the start of it in appropriate style – with a huge Royal Arch party!

James Marsh Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals

Brian Saunders 3rd Provincial Grand Principal

Royal Arch Bi-centenary Celebrations

Sevenoaks Chapter of Improvement

2013 is a very important year for Royal Arch Masonry as we celebrate the Holy Royal Arch Bicentenary and, as has already been circulated to all Scribes and Secretaries, the Province of West Kent will, in conjunction with the Provincial Grand Chapters of East Kent, Surrey and Sussex, be holding a Celebration S e r v i c e a t C a n t e r b u r y Cathedral on Saturday 21st September 2013 commencing at 11:00 a.m. This will be an Inter -denominational Service and members of all faiths are encouraged to attend. The Service is open to all Royal Arch and Craft Members and the intention is that we will fill the cathedral with Freemasons.

Regalia will not be worn and the dress for the day will be lounge suits/jackets and ties (Masonic clothing need not be worn). Ladies may, if they choose, wear hats but this is not required or necessary.

There will be no charge for attending the Celebration Service but for security and administrative purposes, admittance to the Cathedral will be by ticket only and you will require a ticket for each attendee. This is important; if you wish to attend you must apply to the West Kent Provincial Office for your tickets. If on the day of the service you are not in possession of a ticket then you will not be able to gain free admission, but will have to pay the entrance fee to the Cathedral.

THE FIRST SEASON of the Sevenoaks CoI was completed on Wednesday 24th April with Amherst and Knole Chapters rehearsing parts of both the Exaltation and Installation ceremonies.

The Sevenoaks Chapters are now using the CoI to supplement their normal rehearsals and also, which is more encouraging, a number of Companions who have not been regular attenders at their Chapters are coming along to sit and “soak up” the ritual. The fact that the Chapters use different rituals is proving to be an attraction as Companions enjoy the variations.

The next meeting will be on October 9 th, all Companions are invited to attend and the meetings will start at 8:00 p.m.

The full programme of meetings is: 9th October 2013 13th November 2013 4th December 2013 15th January 2014 19th February 2014 19th March 2014 9th April 2014 Brian Saunders To keep up with what’s happening in Royal Arch in the Province, don’t forget to register your email address with Provincial Office so that you receive monthly eBulletins and occasional eFlashes.

What to do now: If you wish to apply for tickets please contact the Provincial Office. For this event you will have to submit your application with a

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Congratulations!

VW Bro Derek Bearman - Lesnes Abbey 7393

VW Bro Derek with the Master of Lesnes Abbey (W Bro Kenneth Beaumont) and Wardens (Bros Mark Mullens and Richard Knox)

ON Monday 22nd April 2013, at Westwood Masonic Centre, Welling, The Provincial Grand Master attended the Regular meeting of Lesnes Abbey Lodge 7393 to present VW Bro Derek Leslie BEARMAN PDepPGM, PGSwdB with his 50-year Citation.

The PGM was accompanied by his DC, W Bro Eric Hampson and W Bro Keith Colcutt, who read the Citation. He was further accompanied by three APGMs W Bros Mark Estaugh, Douglas Hughes and Keith Fairweather and Past APGM (and current DepGSupt) W Bro Bob King.

In his 50 years as a Freemason (initiated on 22nd April 1963), VW Bro Derek has been a member of ten Lodges and Chapters, including being a Founder of Harmony and Unity 8451 and Fiennes Cornwallis 9279. He has been a

devoted servant of the Province, having served as APGM from 1993 to 2001, Deputy Grand Superintendent from 2005 to 2008 and Deputy Provincial Grand Master from 2005 to 2010. It is therefore not surprising that so many members of the current Executive were there to see him honoured.

There were two reasons to celebrate during this meeting as the PGM also chose it to present the Lodge Honorary Organist, W Bro Norman Mullener, with the Invicta Award (see front page).

Amongst the many guests were twelve invited by VW Bro Derek himself (see picture below), so the Temple was full to see the presentations and enjoy this doubly-happy occasion.

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Congratulations!

W Bro Norman Edward Newson celebrated his 50 years in Freemasonry at the Chelsfield Lodge 6404 Meeting held at Sevenoaks Masonic Hall on 9th May 2013. W Bro Keith Fairweather, APGM presented W Bro Norman with his 50-year citation after giving a most excellent resumĂŠ of the key events of 1963, including The Great Train Robbery.

W Bro Norman responded that the Great Train Robbers had been convicted on the strength of fingerprint evidence which had been obtained by the Metropolitan Police S03 team, and that he had been part of that team!

Norman later became Head of S03 from which he retired seventeen years ago.

Norman was Initiated in Petersham Lodge 4514 on 27th April 1963 and was a member of the East Surrey Masters Lodge 5888. He was Master of Petersham Lodge in 1978/79 and again in 2003/04. He became a Joining Member of Chelsfield Lodge 6404 in November 2003 and was Master of Chelsfield in this, his 50th year as a Freemason.

W Bro Norman Newson Chelsfield 6404

Malcolm Jeffs

Masonic Sports Association progress against what were clearly "club cricketers". The run-rate was maintained until a plumb LBW brought the first wicket down at 73.

The chase was on but wickets fell regularly, leaving Essex in control. They always had the Lewis up their sleeve to bowl his 80 mph deliveries if necessary. He bridged his batting and final over with two world-class catches.

West Kent closed on 211 all out in the 33rd over.

It was a very creditable performance against what was, man for man, a far superior cricket team. Everyone gave their very best and we were in no way disgraced. We enjoyed an excellent tea and bar and were expertly looked after by the Eynsford Club staff. After paying for tea and our ground rent, ÂŁ20 was donated to the 2015 Festival. Our special thanks go to Bro Ivan Wells, who umpired the match for us in a very professional manner. The day was a success in all aspects except the result.

Cricket A BRIGHT but overcast day greeted West Kent and Essex for the match at the glorious Eynsford Cricket Club on 9th June. A 35-over "proper game of cricket" was agreed between the two captains and Essex were invited to bat.

The first ball somewhat set the tone as the Essex opener took an almighty heave at a short one outside off stump. He was eventually well caught by Peter Manners intercepting an "exocet" heading for the road. Helped by some LBW dismissals, West Kent fielders were pondering the format of the "beer match", with Essex teetering at 45/5. That brought a suspiciously young-looking alleged "Lewis" to the crease, who proceeded to despatch our bowling attack into the surrounding flora, fauna and river with consumate ease. When the other Essex opener was eventually dismissed, the replacement made an effective, if agriculturallooking 50 to add to the Lewis's 80 not out.

Despite an imposing total of 229 the ground fielding and bowling had been a tremendous effort, especially by the part-time/non-cricketer members of our team.

In reply, the West Kent openers made steady

Onwards and upwards for the East Kent match on 23rd ...

Andrew Hummersone Secretary

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Masonic Sports Association Clay Shooting Club - 12th May 2013 FINALLY the weather has cheered up and a great shoot was had by all. JJ’s clay shoot was the venue of the day; we all met at 9:30 for a bacon roll and coffee. We headed out onto the stands at 10:00, and with 96 clays to shoot, we all had a good chance of hitting a few!

Danny Madley drew the short straw by being put in first, but he only missed one out of the first 12 clays, so the competition was on. Mick Page also shot an 11 and then I got 12; Lady Luck was on my side. The competition up to the fourth stand was close with only a few points between us all, but by the sixth stand the targets where starting to get a bit tricky, with a pair of left to right ‘high crossers’. Barry O’Rourke excelled in the stand with a straight 12 after saying that he did not like these shots!

Moving on, the next stand was the dreaded ‘rabbit’ followed with a ‘left to right looper’ which was the undoing for most! The rabbit being left to tell the tale, down to the second-to - last stand, and it was still all to play for as there were only four points separating the top three shooters. Next were a small ‘overhead’ at a fast pace and a ‘right to left looper’ At this point I thought the camera should come out to try to put a little more pressure on my competitors. It worked: a couple of misses by Mick got me in front by four shots. We approached the last stand with “reverence and humility”; it was down to Mick and me for first place. Could I hold my nerve? I went in first, and yes I could! With a straight 12, I was triumphant.

Final scores: 79 75 69 42

Stuart Darby Mick Page & Barry O’Rourke Danny Madley Ron Dingle

A great morning was had by all and everyone was looking forward to the next competition on 9th June at our ‘home’ ground (JJ’s Shooting Club) near Blue Water Shopping Centre.

For more information check out the web site: www.wkmcsc.org.uk Stuart Darby Club Secretary You can also contact Club Secretary Stuart at studarby1@btinternet.com or alternatively call him on 07725 189 060.

West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Masonic Sports Association Golf - Officers for 2013 THE inaugural Captain’s Dinner for the West Kent Provincial Golf Section was held at Bartellas Restaurant, Meopham, Kent, on Monday 4th March 2013. The guest of honour was RW Bro Jonathan Winpenny, Provincial Grand Master and President of the Provincial Golf Section.

The Captain’s Dinner was the brainchild of Alan Ward, the Provincial Captain for 2012, and proved to be a huge success.

During the dinner Alan presented Phil Doyle with the Captain’s collarette, he having been elected as Provincial Captain for 2013 at the Annual General Meeting.

Archie Torrance is a Founder and Past Master of Ash-cum-Ridley Lodge 9700. He was the Chair of the Metropolitan Police Golf Section for ten years prior to his retirement in 2011 and, prior to his election as Honorary Secretary, he was the Inter-Provincial Golf Secretary.

Mick Lane succeeds Archie as Inter-Provincial Golf Secretary. He is a Past Master of Rookesley Lodge 8398 and Ash-cum-Ridley Lodge 9700; he is also a member of Lamorbey Lodge 5614.

At the end of the Captain’s Dinner, a presentation was made to Peter Smith of North Kent Lodge 2499, for his wonderful service over the past decade as Honorary Secretary of the Provincial Golf Section. The photograph below shows Peter receiving his gift from Alan Ward.

Phil is a member of Lee Kent Lodge 4110. His brother, Geoff, also a member of Lee Kent Lodge, was elected as Vice-Captain.

Also present at the dinner were the new Honorary Secretary of our Provincial Golf Section – Archie Torrance – and the new InterProvincial Secretary – Mick Lane (pictured respectively left and right below).

As a further reflection on Peter’s efforts, he was elected as Vice-President of the Golf Section at the AGM and the Committee are delighted that he is still available for advice when necessary.

The full list of Officers and Committee Members can be seen on the Golf Section page of the Provincial website.

Archie Torrance Honorary Secretary Click on the information: Golf Officers:

Officers

Golf Fixtures:

Fixtures

West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Masonic Sports Association SE England Masonic Province Golf Championship 2013 Charles Beauchamp Shield/Micky Cash Memorial Trophy ON Monday 13th May the Province of West Kent were pleased to host the SE England Masonic Province Golf Championship 2013, having been the winners in 2012. The venue was the highlyrated Betchworth Park Golf Club, which nestles under the North Downs near Dorking in Surrey.

A total of 68 golfers in 17 teams from eight Provinces took part; those Provinces being Berkshire, East Kent, Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Oxfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, West Kent and Wiltshire. After registering, and enjoying coffee and a bacon roll, the golfers made their way to their designated start tee for the shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. precisely. The weather was beautiful and the course itself was in magnificent condition.

On return to the clubhouse, after making good use of the recently refurbished locker rooms, the smartly-dressed golfers made their way to The Stewart and Mary Peck Function Room for dinner. Luck was shining upon us all as a hail storm struck during dinner, but did not dampen the excitement and fun.

RW Bro Jonathan Winpenny kindly presented the prizes, assisted by W Bro Phil Doyle, Provincial Golf Captain for 2013.

glass decanter.

The winning team was Berkshire 2 (pictured above) who lifted the “Charles Beauchamp Masonic Inter-Province Shield” with a team total of 98 Stableford points (from the best three scorecards). David Hesketh, Matt James, Andy Cook and Tony Foley were thrilled to receive the trophy and their Royal Doulton prizes from our PGM. The runners-up were West Kent 2: Phil Doyle, Dave Higgins, Tony Latham and Keith Reynolds, with a team total of 93 points.

The golfer returning the best points score of the day, with 41, was none other than our very own Mick Lane, Inter-Provincial Secretary. As the following picture shows, he was very pleased indeed (if not a tiny bit smug) to lift the “Micky Cash Memorial Trophy” and a beautiful

The ‘Longest Drive’ was won by Mark Hayes of Berkshire 1 and ‘Nearest the Pin’ was won by David Higgins of West Kent 2. The ‘Lost Balls’ Competition was won by Colin Davies of Wiltshire 1.

A raffle during dinner proved very successful and raised £500 for our chosen charity – the West Kent 2015 Festival for the Masonic Samaritan Fund.

All in all, the 2013 SE England Championship was a wonderful success and we are all looking forward to the 2014 event, which will also be staged at Betchworth Park Golf Club, this time hosted by the Province of Berkshire.

The runner-up was Tony Foley (pictured below) from Berkshire 2 with 37 points.

Archie Torrance Honorary Secretary

West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Masonic Sports Association Inter-Provincial Golf West Kent v Sussex

Inter-Provincial Golf West Kent v Surrey

THE first Inter-Provincial Match of the 2013 season took place at The Ridge Golf Club, Sutton Valence, near Maidstone, on Thursday 18th April 2013.

The West Kent Team was led by Alan Ward, who acted as Captain for the day and included: Mick Lane, Tony Middleditch, Keith Reynolds, Peter Smith, Keith Stoner, Malcolm Thompson, Archie Torrance, Jeff Turner, and Jonathan Winpenny. Our opponents were the Province of Sussex, led by their Captain Jerry Connell.

Our friends from the Province of East Kent piggy-backed on our match and played their match against Sussex at the same time. This meant sending out ten three-ball groups, with a player from each of the three Provinces in each group; an approach that worked pretty well.

The weather was cold and windy but this did not dampen the high spirits of all those taking part. The West Kent v Sussex match was a close-run thing, but West Kent were victors by 6 games to 4. East Kent was also successful, beating Sussex 6½ games to 3½.

An enjoyable meal was followed by the announcement of the results and everyone left the golf club happy that they had enjoyed a super day out. We look forward to the match against Sussex next year, when West Kent will be playing away from home.

THE second Inter-Provincial Match of the 2013 season took place at Langley Park Golf Club, Beckenham, on Monday 29th April 2013.

The West Kent Team was led by our current Provincial Captain, Phil Doyle, and included: Ian Betts, Kevin Clarke, Ken Mason, John Maxfield, Tony Middleditch, Vik Rampersad, Keith Reynolds, Keith Stoner, Malcolm Thompson, Archie Torrance, Jeff Turner and Alan Ward.

Peter Smith and Mick Lane were also present but their scores were not taken into account as our opponents, the Province of Surrey, were only able to field a team of 13 players. The Surrey team was Captained by Mike Kindler, a well-known golfer on the Inter-Provincial circuit.

The format was matchplay, in pairs, except for the match between the two Captains, which was a singles affair.

The weather was changeable with occasional showers; no surprise when one considers the weather we have had so far this year.

The match was very close indeed, but Surrey managed to nudge over the finish line, beating West Kent by 4 games to 3. This might have been different had our Honorary Secretary and his playing partner accepted a half on the 18 th tee after all four players had put their tee shots into the lake. However, believing that a win in their game was necessary, they ploughed on, only to see Surrey win the hole and the match.

[You are never too old to learn a painful lesson it seems!]

An enjoyable meal was followed by the formal announcement of the result – that the “Oakley Cup” had been won back by Surrey.

We look forward to the match against Surrey next year, when West Kent will be playing away from home. We shall do our level best to win the new “Oakley Cup” for the first time and bring it home to Oakley House.

Archie Torrance Honorary Secretary Editor’s Note: No photographs were provided for these two matches; perhaps our golfers are getting camera shy!

If any do emerge, they will be uploaded to the appropriate section of the Provincial website, as will photos of the other prize-winners at the Charles Beauchamp Shield/Micky Cash Memorial Trophy day, which had to be omitted because of space constraints.

Archie Torrance Honorary Secretary

Golf Information

Officers

Up-to-date information on the WKMSA Golf Section can be found on the Provincial website.

Fixtures and venues: Fixtures

Click on the appropriate link for the type of information you require:

Reports (under construction):

Officers & Contact information:

Reports West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Around the Centres

W

HEN I asked for news from ‘Around the Centres’, one of our Members took me pretty literally …

Congratulations to Bro Eric Enock of Ravensmead Lodge 6404 (Bromley) on his cycle ride round West Kent Masonic Centres. He hoped to raise £500 for the 2015 Festival for the Masonic Samaritan Fund but has achieved £600 so far!

Tunbridge Wells THINGS have been relatively quiet at Tunbridge Wells. We have now produced a five-year plan for maintenance and future improvements of the Centre.

The first steps have already been taken, with new boilers for the central heating and the replacement of the cookers in the kitchen.

Work has started on a major refurbishment of the interior and exterior of the building and this will continue.

Dartford W Bro Ken Langman It is with sadness and regret that we have to report the passing of W Bro Ken Langman.

Ken has been Secretary and a Director of DMC for the past six years and will be sadly missed. He presided over most day-to-day issues in an efficient and professional manner.

He reappraised many of our systems, updating them as required and ensuring we kept abreast of changing business and public laws. Apart from being a great guy he was an excellent Mason, Treasurer of Lodge of Sincerity No 6868 and always available to help Lodges, Chapters and other orders when required. He enjoyed his golf and was a founder member of the DMC golf society.

New Directors Following the tragic death of W Bro Ken Langman, and the resignations as Directors of W Bros John Olbrechts and Mike Horwood, we have appointed two new Directors. W Bro Mike Rehling of Loyal Darenth Valley Lodge No 6206, who has agreed to take on the role of Secretary and W Bro Mike Ives of Meridian of West Kent Lodge No 9202, who is taking responsibility for maintenance.

Bond Scheme The bond scheme, which raised approximately £50K and allowed the car park to be re- laid, saw the first draw take place in March. This was performed by W Bro Mark Estaugh, APGM who drew 250 bonds. This will now be repeated each March for the next seven years.

DMC Golf Society The DMC Golf Society has a number of events planned for this year. Unfortunately due to the bad weather the first was cancelled and has to be rescheduled but there are many others planned. These very friendly events are open to members and guests. If you want more information contact W Bro Geoff Court on 01322 411 354.

Mick Stillwell CIO, Tunbridge Wells

Sevenoaks FOLLOWING my report in the last edition of WK News On-Line the survey of the fabric of the building, prompted by some dampness in the Temple walls, proved to be more extensive than we had thought. When the ‘live’ plaster was removed there were two extensive sections of the walls where water had been getting in. The cause of this proved to be shallow gutters that were not clearing rainwater away and the overspill over the years had caused damage to the external wall pointing and the support buttresses, leaving the walls very wet.

Necessary repairs were undertaken and, after a period of drying out, the walls in the Temple were re-plastered; even then it took one of the walls many weeks to dry out sufficiently for the repair to be redecorated (many ceremonies were conducted the gentle hum of a dehumidifier in the background). It is now finished, with the Lodge Honours boards reinstated, which means now that we can move onto the next phase for the Temple and have the delicate operation of the ‘Square’ carpet being cleaned.

In spite of all that, it would appear that the Centre is a magnet for water. Earlier this month we suffered flooding in the entrance and disabled toilet; it would appear that the cause of this problem is possibly in a neighbouring property which we hope will be resolved soon so that we can get our decorating programme back on track.

Despite these problems we have managed to get the entrance hall and staircase decorated which has brightened this area and we hope to get the dining room done during the summer recess.

Colin Smith CIO, Dartford

Doug Horsman CIO, Sevenoaks West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Around the Centres Bookings are being taken now for the New Year Dinner and Dance, and the Charity Gala on Friday 8th November in support of Help for Heroes. Our Events Co-ordinator, Anne Hulbert is available to take booking enquiries. She can be contacted via email: annehulbertlodge@gmail.com or by phone on 0208 856 1096.

A ‘farewell’ lunch took place on Sunday 2 nd June for Ken Richardson, as he has decided to step down from his role as Company Secretary at Welling to devote more time to his family.

Ken has, for some nine years, committed a great deal of time and energy to the Centre.

We at Welling, the Westwood Centre, look forward to continuing the good works built up

by Ken and maintain a fresh approach to the challenges that lie ahead.

Welling THE Westwood Centre has a new foyer and redecorated main dining room. Come and see for yourself!

We have recently hosted a number of events for non-Masonic organisations: Westcombe Park Rugby Club’s Business Showcase - a Monthly networking venture; an evening of Wine Tasting in conjunction with Laithwaites, our wine supplier; the Age UK Bexley Annual Awards Presentation.

We have a new Operations Manager at the Centre, Peter Hucker-Todd has been appointed and began his duties on 4th June.

On Thursday 23rd May there were two initiates, one into Bellegrove Lodge 7293 and the other into Oakfield Park Lodge 8671. This was an exciting time for both the candidates and the Lodges.

Cliff Lee CIO, Welling

Passed to Higher Service It is with great regret that we report the passing to the Grand Lodge Above, of the following Brethren and Companions from our Province during the period from February to May 2013. We indeed, mourn their passing and extend our deepest sympathy and consolation to their families and close friends.

Lodge of Sincerity No 6968 Bro John Evans, PPGSwdB Lamorbey Lodge No 5614 Bro Alfred Sandford, PPGSwdB Justin Lodge No 5338 Bro Kenneth Lacy, PPGSuptWks Welling Lodge No 5976

Bro Rex Haworth, PJGD Good Neighbour Lodge No 8378

Bro Brian Liddle, PPGSuptWks Oakwood Lodge No 8299

Bro John Grimshaw, PAGSwdB St Barbara Lodge No 5937

Bro Frank Glover, PPSGD Medway Lodge No 1678

Bro Frank Edwards, PGStB Shirley Woolmer Lodge No 2530

Bro Clive Couldwell, PPSGD West Kent Masters Lodge No 5778

Comp John Miller, PAGDC (RA) Albany Park Chapter No 7432

Bro Charles Green, PPJGD Castlewood Lodge No 8179

Bro Albert Frost, PPGReg St Vincent Lodge No 6978

Bro Donald Greef, PPJGD Godyngton Lodge No 7049

Bro Peter Butler, PPGReg Lesney Park Lodge of Erith No 3965

Bro Hugh Jones, PPJGD Richard of Bordeaux Lodge No 8333

Bro Brian Southgate, PPGReg Old Bexley Lodge No 7129

Bro Albert Jacklin, PPJGD Thamesmead Lodge No 8269

Bro Philip White, PPGReg, Crays Valley Lodge No 2147

Bro George Hamberger , PPJGD Richard of Bordeaux Lodge No 8333

Bro Kenneth Langman , PPGSwdB

West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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In Memoriam - Lt. Com. Alan Game RD RNR (Retired) Alan Game sadly died on Sunday 19th May 2013 at the Ellenor Lions Hospice at Northfleet after an ardu ou s battl e against cancer.

Alan was born in north London on 2nd S e pt e m b e r 1932. He went to school locally including Stationers Grammar School in Hornsey In 1948 he joi ned th e Merchant Navy Nautical School at age 16; joining his first ship as an apprentice in 1949.

He quickly rose through the ranks to become the Navigation Officer of the mainly tankers he sailed in, and plotted the bearings for, throughout the world. He also obtained his Master Mariner’s certificate.

He met up with June his wife at primary school but only in their ‘teens’ did they realise they liked each other and started courting. They then married in 1955.

Having started a family Alan ‘came ashore’ in 1958 to become a trainee Environmental Officer with Crayford Council, which included accommodation, and was why they came to live in Kent. Upon qualification he made contact with someone in The Guild Hall in London and successfully became a City of London Port Health Officer. Knowing that he had to travel to ports from London to Tilbury they bought a house in Dartford and that is still the family home today.

Now back in his element working with shipping, he also joined the Royal Navy Reserve. Alan showed his usual commitment in the weekly meetings and annual exercises and achieved the rank of Lt. Commander and received the Reserved Diploma award for his work.

Alan and June had three children: Julie, Robert and Kate and eight grandchildren ranging from Nick at 28 to Lucy at just 11. He was very proud of them all and loved his family gatherings especially at Christmas dressing up as Santa Claus.

He retired in 1997 but still found time to be President of the British Torch, an organisation similar to the British Legion, and led many a continental pilgrimage for the elderly members to military graveyards and battle sites.

Alan was an excellent linguist and spoke fluent German learnt through his contacts at work, also some Hindi as well. The family tired of annual holidays in Germany and insisted on France or anywhere else! He therefore signed up for French language classes and holidayed there for many years.

Alan’s father was a Freemason and encouraged him to join the Craft. He was initiated into Lodge of Loyalty 7156 in September 1963 and became their Master in 1981 and went on to serve as Almoner and Secretary.

He also joined six more Lodges and was made an honorary member of two others.

He rose through the Provincial Ranks to be active Provincial Junior Grand Warden in 1998, then achieved Grand Rank, first as PGStB and then PJGD. His great love in Freemasonry was the Royal Arch. Although he was exalted in a Chapter in London he soon saw the light and joined Priory Chapter 5819 in West Kent and went on to be the MEZ in both 1984 and 2008. He founded a London Chapter, Polaris [sounds Naval!] and joined West Kent First Principals, becoming their MEZ in 2000. He was also an honorary member of several Chapters.

He was particularly delighted when, following his Father’s move to Dartford, Alan exalted him into Priory Chapter.

Alan’s talents were noted again when he was appointed in 1992 to ProvDGDC in the Provincial Grand Chapter of West Kent and following this to ProvGDC and then finally 2ndProvGPrincipal in 2004. He was also awarded Grand Rank in the RA as PGStB and then PAGSoj in 2006.

He was also a member of other orders including Mark and RAM as well as Rose Croix and the Allied Masonic Degrees.

Following his retirement from the executive he went on to become the founding Chairman of the WK branch of the Masonic Salmon and Trout Fishing charity, which gives many glorious and happy days out to disabled children. Although he swore about me recommending him for the job to the PGM (which I did!), I know he loved it along with his very able team, which included June, his wife.

There are many more aspects of his life and Masonic career I could mention but space prevents. Suffice it to say he was an excellent Husband, Father and Grandfather as well as a gentleman and mentor and an example to all masons but above all to me; a great friend.

Douglas B Hughes APGM and Past2ndProvGPrin

West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Commission for Appeals Courts HAVE you seen those lists of powerful-sounding Committees in UGLE publications, and perhaps wondered what they do? Here’s your chance to learn more about one of them, because ‘one of our own’, W Bro Archie Torrance, has been elected to one such committee.

We should all take pride in Archie’s appointment and on behalf of all WK Masons, WK News offers him hearty congratulations!

was arranging Discipline Boards (now called Misconduct Hearings) where senior officers heard cases against serving officers and decided appropriate sanctions against those whose case was found proven. Having left CIB1 in 2000, he then served as a Misconduct Hearing Assessor on the panels that he had formerly organized.

Prior to retiring, Archie was Secretary for the London District of the Police Superintendents’ Association of England & Wales. In this capacity he was the Lead ‘Friend’ for London, providing advice and support to his members (Superintendents and Chief Superintendents) who were facing a misconduct enquiry or otherwise required staff association support.

The UGLE Commission for Appeals Courts consists of 24 Brethren who must be either Masters or Past Masters. The Commission is formed by virtue of eight Brethren being elected by the Rulers’ Forum in December each year to serve for a term of three years from the date of the next Annual Installation of the Grand Master. Each Appeals Court consists of one member of a Panel (of not less than five Brethren appointed annually) who shall preside, and not less than four other members of the Commission for Appeals Courts. The Grand Master selects the Presiding Brother for any Appeals Court and that Brother nominates the other members.

Appeals Courts have cases laid before them through the Grand Secretary’s Office and are the authority level for erasure of Lodges and expulsion of a Brother. Appeals Courts may also recommend that a Brother be required to resign. They also hear appeals against decisions made by other levels of authority.

It is clear that W Bro Archie will be able to put his knowledge and experience of discipline and misconduct in the Criminal Justice System to good use as a member of the Commission for Appeals Courts. When asked about his appointment, Archie said: “I am delighted and proud to have been elected to the Commission for Appeals Courts for the next three years and I shall work hard to represent the Province of West Kent to the best of my ability.

Understandably, the role is entirely new to me but I look forward to facing the challenges it brings. I am grateful to all those in the Province of West Kent who supported my expression of interest, without which I would not have been elected.”

It looks as though Archie will be busy as he has already been invited to give a talk entitled ‘Masonic Etiquette, Conduct and the Commission for Appeals Courts’ in his Mother Craft Lodge in London.

FOLLOWING a call for expressions of interest at the end of 2012, W Bro Archibald I. Torrance ProvSGW, LGR, has been elected by United Grand Lodge of England to be a member of the Commission for Appeals Courts, in accordance with the provisions of Rule 275 of the Book of Constitutions. His term of office began on 24 th April 2013 and runs for three years.

W Bro Archie Torrance is a Founder Member of Ash-cum-Ridley Lodge 9700, which meets at Wrotham. He was Master of the Lodge in 2011/12 and has now been elected as Treasurer.

Archie hails from Ayrshire in Scotland, but came to the South East of England in April 1980, to join the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). After nearly 31 years police service, he retired in 2011. During his service, he rose to the rank of Chief Superintendent. His last operational posting was as Borough Commander for Lewisham, where he was the discipline authority for 750 officers and staff.

For two years, Archie was posted as a Superintendent in charge of the Met’s Discipline Office (CIB1), which dealt with internal misconduct. Amongst his many responsibilities

West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Freemasonry in the Community Bro Graham Underdown (Festival Committee Organiser), presenting the cheque to Jen Moseley, Community Fund Raising Manager for the Alzheimer’s Society.

On receiving the donation, Jen said “Dementia is the number one social care issue of our generation - there are currently 800,000 people with the condition in the UK and this is set to rise to 1 million in less than 10 years' time. That's why fundraising is so vital, enabling Alzheimer's Society to continue its work in supporting those affected by dementia today and funding research to find a cure for tomorrow.”

Petts Wood Playgroup

Graham Underdown

Kent Air Ambulance

ON 9th May, E Comp Geoff Joy (Charity Steward) and Comp Alan Fairfax (Treasurer), of Ravensmead Chapter 6404 presented the Petts Wood Playgroup (for Children with Special Needs) Registered Charity 803792, with a cheque for £500.

The money will help the playgroup to provide much-needed toys and equipment for the benefit of the children they care for.

The photograph above shows E Comp Geoff with Ms Larry Simpson, Play Group Organiser.

Park Langley Lodge 5512 held a very successful Ladies Festival at The Grange Moor Hotel, Maidstone on the 6th April 2013. The after -dinner raffle for prizes given by the members of the Lodge realised £420.

A cheque for the proceeds was presented to the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance at their headquarters in Marden, Kent by the Worshipful Master, W Bro Brian Heasman and his wife Sharon. They were accompanied by their grandson Max and his friend Becci.

Geoff Joy

Alzheimer’s Society FOLLOWING a very successful Ladies Weekend at the Thistle Hotel Brands Hatch in February 2013, for W Bro Martin and Mrs Gill Adams of Sevenoaks Weald Lodge 8882, the magnificent sum of £1,123 was raised for the charity of Gill’s choice: the Alzheimer’s Society.

Gill chose this particular charity because of her own experiences coming to terms with family friends who have suffered with dementia.

The two youngsters were delighted to have their photo taken with the Trauma Doctors and the pilot. Later they were shown around the headquarters building - and much to the children's renewed delight, they were also shown in and around the helicopter itself.

The members of Park Langley Lodge are proud to support this most worthy organisation on this occasion, as it has in the past; and it will continue to do so in the future.

Chris Hunt

The photograph above shows W Bro Martin Adams, Worshipful Master, accompanied by W

West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Masonic Miscellany It will provide a splendid opportunity to get together with East Kent Masons and the aim will be, as always, to be interesting and informative.

The conference will be held at the Masonic Centre at Tovil, near Maidstone, and an invitation is extended to all West and East Kent Masons to come along for an enjoyable morning. The cost is only £10 and that includes refreshments.

For further information please email: alaneshort@alaneshort.f2s.com

Saye and Sele 1973 ‘Certificates of Achievement’ DETERMINED to encourage the influx of newer members coming into The Saye and Sele Lodge 1973, our WM Eric Philippides devised and produced a series of ‘Certificates of Achievement’, for those who are consistently supporting the Lodge of Instruction and are beginning to take part in our ceremonies.

Alan Short Secretary, West Kent Scriveners’ 9799

Caffè Nero recognises West Kent!

AT Provincial Grand Lodge in Freemasons’ Hall, the Temple was full, the meeting enjoyable and the Indigo Singers (the Provincial Choir) were excellent.

A number of Brethren from Rivermead Lodge 8278 met beforehand in Caffè Nero for a drink and chat. W Bro Peter Smith, who was to receive his first appointment as Past Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies, arrived after the main group and purchased a coffee. As if the assistant was aware of W Bro Peter's impending preferment, his coffee as below:

The first recipients, shown above, were Bros: Paul Conlon and Dominic Websdale, W Bro Eric Pillippides, and Bros: Terry Brian and Armarjit Dhesi, all of whom received their ‘Certificates’ in Open Lodge in April.

Ken Lorberg

West Kent Scriveners’ 9799 Annual Conference - 09/11/13 THE West Kent Scriveners’ Lodge is for Secretaries and Treasurers both in the Craft and Chapter. Each year Lodge members organise an annual conference on a Saturday morning, when topics of interest are considered, finishing with a light lunch.

A keynote address is presented by a leading member of the Province, following which papers are presented by members of the Executive and other speakers (we have Roger Odd [EK] and Gordon Davie [WK] booked). It is lighthearted, interesting and informative.

Things will be a little different this year, as it is the fortieth anniversary of the founding of the Masonic Provinces of West and East Kent out of the old Province of Kent, forces are being joined with East Kent and a joint conference is being held.

This can only mean that Cafe Nero has officially recognised UGLE and the Province of West Kent!

There is, however, a disturbing aspect to this event. I invite everyone to examine the position of the square and compasses as shown on the coffee. Was the assistant actually making a declaration regarding where it is felt W Bro Peter actually should be in Masonry?

I don't know the answer to the above question but I do know that the Lodge offers its congratulations to W Bro Peter and also to W Bro Geoff Waldmeyer on his promotion to Past Provincial Senior Grand Deacon.

Ian Gallehawk

West Kent News On-Line ~ Issue 5 ~ June 2013

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Masonic Miscellany Barrie Evans crosses ‘the pond’

W Bro Barrie Evans (pictured above, front row, left) of Black Prince Lodge 7558 had the honour and pleasure of being the guest of honour of Mission Lodge 169 in San Francisco California in March this year.

He witnessed a Third Degree Conferral, which he says was a wonderful ceremony, conducted by the Worshipful Master, in his Top Hat, and all his Officers in a very professional and sincere manner.

He was made very welcome by all the members of the Lodge, gave them greetings from both the Province of West Kent and London. He presented a Black Prince Lodge 7558 History to the Worshipful Master, which gift was greeted with warm applause from all the members of the Lodge.

The new MEZ is also in the Chair of Union Waterloo Lodge this year, which keeps him off the streets and out of mischief!

Michael Warner

Horse Guards On 2nd April, members of Bromley Invicta Lodge 8128 hosted members of our Craft and Royal Arch Executive during a visit to Horse Guards one of London’s top sightseeing venues, where the Life Guards and the Blues & Royals guard what is still the official main entrance to Buckingham and St James’ Palaces.

What is not so widely known about Horse Guards is that it is still a very busy working military HQ - it is the Headquarters of the Army within London (called London District) and the planning centre for many of this country’s great ceremonial events, including Trooping the Colour, which of course takes place on the parade ground at Horse Guards.

The visit included a tour inside the building where the party were allowed privileged access to the General Officer Commanding’s Office – currently Major General GPR Norton CBE. This office is where the Duke of Wellington worked during his two stints as the Commander in Chief of the British Army – Wellington’s desk (see picture on next page) still takes pride of place in the office and is used by General Norton as his working desk.

Another famous Commander in Chief who worked in the office was Prince Frederick, Duke of York and Albany, younger brother of King George IV – perhaps better known as ‘The Grand Old Duke of York’ (he of the nursery rhyme).

As you might expect, Horse Guards houses many irreplaceable artefacts and works of art

Waterloo!

It was a very happy occasion at Union Waterloo Chapter 13 (founded 1788) on 27th February 2013 at Dartford when the Principals were installed.

E Comp James John Marsh, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals, represented the Province, accompanied by E Comp Michael Page, Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies and their congenial and relaxed presence was the icing on the cake in a wellattended meeting, with 38 Companions sitting down to dine.

On 5th June 2013 the Chapter celebrated its 225th Anniversary and a special programme had been planned for that meeting. (Editor’s note: I look forward to receiving a report for the next issue of WK News!)

The following picture shows (l to r) E Comp Michael Page, E Comp James Marsh, Second Principal E Comp John Rothery, MEZ E Comp James Ashmore, Third Principal E Comp Martyn Dawson and (far right) IPZ E Comp Lawrence Hawney.

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Masonic Miscellany In another office in the building is a desk over which Adolf Hitler and our then Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain had talks in 1938 before the breakout of the Second World War; the ‘Peace in our time’ paper that Chamberlain was famously seen waving on his return to the UK after these discussions was signed at the desk.

During the tour, the party enjoyed watching the Changing of the Guard from the same window in the Major General’s office that members of our Royal Family watch Trooping the Colour; this was followed by a visit to the basement where they were treated to tea and biscuits whilst sitting around an original ‘cockfighting pit’!

The visit to Horse guards raised a marvellous £430 towards our 2015 Festival; a further £100 was sent to the Major General to donate to a charity of his choice.

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including a painting by the post-impressionist Paul Maze who was a lifelong friend and painting mentor of Winston Churchill; there is also a handwritten letter from Florence Nightingale.

James Marsh

The tour party under a magnificent portrait of Wellington before the Battle of Waterloo

Our PGM at the Duke of Wellington’s desk

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RMBI in Action ALTHOUGH our thoughts and actions are currently concentrated on the Masonic Samaritan Fund and our 2015 Festival, we shouldn’t forget that the other three Masonic Charities are still there, ready to help us and our families whenever we are in need.

Their presence was amply illustrated by a letter I received recently from a Surrey Mason (a member of Old England 1790), who has kindly agreed to its publication:

staff did everything they could to encourage her to take food and fluids, adding nourishing food supplements to the food and giving her fortified fruit juices, which she liked. The family were kept informed at all times and consulted with regards to Mum’s Care Plan.

In the last few months of Mum’s life, she needed 24/7 nursing care and at times could not be left unattended so there was always someone with her. This put an enormous strain on staff resources, but they continued to give Mum the appropriate care she needed.

When the staff came on and off duty they called into Mum’s room to give her a kiss and a hug and words of kindness, gestures which we, as a family, appreciated enormously.

The unstinting devotion to duty, the patience and unending kindness, all helped to make Mum’s last few months and days bearable, for both her and the family.

Prince George Duke of Kent Court is a first class Residential and Nursing Care Home and ought to be used as a model for other care homes throughout the country. Nothing can be perfect, but this is as near perfect as it can get.

Gillian Khalighi, the Home Manager and all her superb staff including the Administrative and Office personnel, the ‘pink’ cleaning ladies and domestic staff, maintenance men, chefs and catering staff, activities co-ordinators, all the care staff and in our case, the amazing Registered General Nurses and all the Nursing staff - should all be duly congratulated and highly commended.

Mum specifically requested that, when she died, all donations be given to those who cared for her at the end of her life. Those people were the staff at Prince George and so all donations in loving memory of Mum were given to the RMBI Amenity Fund at Prince George and we were thrilled and delighted to present Gillian with cheques and cash totalling £1,000.

We sincerely thank Gillian and all her staff and we will always be eternally grateful to them all.

In July 2011, our dear mother, May Couchman, was admitted to Prince George Duke of Kent Court, the Royal Masonic Residential and Nursing Care Home in Chislehurst, Kent.

From the moment she arrived she was warmly welcomed and whisked off to join other residents for an activities afternoon. By the time she returned the family had moved in items of her furniture, unpacked her belongings, put out her photos, hung her pictures and set up her new CTV in her room. Mum was given a very nice, spacious room, which overlooked the gardens and she was happy and settled in well.

Obviously, at times, she missed her old flat and neighbours, but the staff were all so kind that it made the transition much easier.

Mum joined in all the organised activities run by the wonderful Activities Co-ordinators and, despite her profound deafness, enjoyed it all, including art and craft sessions, flower arranging, Easter bonnet making, memory lane, exercise to music and social evenings. Every fortnight, the hairdresser would take Mum to have her hair washed and set just the way she liked it and she always looked lovely. Mum, a woman of great faith, always attended the twice -monthly religious services until, sadly, she became totally incapacitated.

Unfortunately, by 2012, the vascular dementia was beginning to take a hold, but the staff continued to show Mum much love and affection and the care she received was first class, despite at times, Mum being extremely difficult to manage.

As Mum became less able to feed herself, she was patiently fed by the care staff. When she stopped eating and drinking altogether, the

Alfonso and Tricia Camisotti and all the Family them.

Becoming a ‘Friend’ costs just £10 per year, or you can become a ‘Life’ member for £50, a ‘Patron’ for £100 or a ‘Grand Patron’ for £200.

For further details, including an application form to become a ‘Friend’ or ‘Patron’, click on the link below:

Association of Friends If the above inspires you to try to help West Kent’s RMBI home, why not, as a first step, join the Association of Friends - Prince George, Duke of Kent Court?

The ‘Friends’ directly organise and support many events during the year, either directly for the residents themselves, or to raise funds for

Association of Friends

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More Masonic Miscellany Gordon Bennett 2003 GORDON BENNETT was an American entrepreneur who was infamous for his bad manners and wacky stunts, during a spell as a newspaper editor he sent Stanley to Africa to look for Dr Livingstone but he can also lay claim to starting what has now become Formula 1.

He set up a race, the Gordon Bennett Cup Race and presented a Trophy seen below.

The rules stated that the race must take place in the country of the club holding the trophy or in France if no suitable venue could be found. In 1902 Selwyn Edge driving a 30hp Napier, seen below, won the race. putting the finishing touches to the car before we set off.

So the 1903 race would be held in England.

However with motoring in its infancy and the powers that be seeing death and destruction as a result wouldn’t grant a licence to hold it on English roads but not wanting to let it go to France either and Ireland still being part of the UK the Irish were given the opportunity to stage the race which they did with a great deal of panache and attracted a large number of entrants and spectators on a figure of eight circuit through the Counties of Kildare, Queens and Carlow the circuit was 103 miles long. The 1903 race was won by the Germans in a Mercedes car unfortunately Selwyn Edge crashed his Napier.

We went to Ireland in 2003 for the Centenary of that Gordon Bennett Cup Race run over the old circuit; with my Brother, who restores vintage cars, we took a 1903 Panhard, seen here (top of next column).

The weather wasn’t particularly kind and we mostly got very wet during the pre race runs and on race day but there was the odd bright period as can be seen below with ‘our kid’

We were in it for the fun and didn’t take the racing bit too seriously although we did intend to finish so the odd break for a snack as can be seen below as we eat black pudding sandwiches made fresh by the filling station were we stopped for fuel.

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More Masonic Miscellany Gordon Bennett 2003

Masonic Research Some of you are interested in Masonic history; others look for Masons in their family tree, which is why I included the article on ‘Tracing Relatives’ and the service offered by the Library and Museum, in Issue 4 of WKN On-Line.

Diane Clements, Director of the Library and Museum, has issued a note (reproduced below) about Masonic magazines and newspapers which may provide a useful research resource.

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And occasionally needed to get rid of some fuel as well!

We had a great time and have decided to reprise our trip and take the car back again this year for our tenth anniversary run at the 110th anniversary of that great race in 1903; incidentally the Napier that was written off in the 1903 race has been lovingly restored and took part in the 2003 event and here it is being weighed in before the start.

Freemasons and their families will be familiar with Freemasonry Today, the quarterly magazine sent to all members. What they may not know is that there is a long tradition of magazines and newspapers published for a Masonic audience.

These publications are important sources not only for understanding the issues within freemasonry but for providing information about the individuals involved and the localities where lodges were based. Few complete series of these periodicals are held in libraries and they have only limited indexes.

The Library and Museum of Freemasonry based at Freemasons’ Hall, Great Queen Street, London and partnered with King’s College London Digital Humanities and Olive Software, has undertaken a ground breaking project to provide free access to searchable digital copies of the major English Masonic publications from the late 18th to the early 20th centuries.

The major titles digitised for this project, which comprises approximately 75,000 pages, are as follows (shown with the dates of publication available digitally):  Freemasons' magazine: or, general and complete library (later The scientific magazine and Freemason’s repository) 1793-8  The Freemasons' quarterly review 183449  The Freemasons’ magazine and masonic mirror 1856-71  The Freemason 1869-1901  The Freemason’s chronicle 1875-1901  Masonic illustrated: a monthly journal for freemasons 1900-1906 Access to this digital resource is free via the Resources page of the Library and Museum website at: www.freemasonry.london.museum or the project website at: http://www.masonicperiodicals.org/

How, I just don’t know, but we won the Veteran Section Regularity Trophy.

I will take plenty of snaps in June and do an update of this year’s run for the next West Kent News.

Doug Horsman Knole and Braidwood Lodges Editor’s Note: I’m grateful to Doug for letting me use this article, which he originally did for his Lodge Newsletter - “The Knoleian”.

I know there are one or two “petrol heads” in the Province, and believe there may be a few “veteran car” enthusiasts as well.

Doug wondered whether there was sufficient interest to form a ‘Motoring’ section of the WK Masonic Sports Association.

Let me know if you would be interested:

The site also includes articles about the development of the masonic press.

PIO@masons-westkent.org.uk

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