News from around the Province - Provincial Grand Lodge of West Lancashire

Good News always travels fast. Here on these pages you will find a selection of news from around the Province. Many thanks to the individual Groups who have contributed news items to these pages. To see individual news stories from the Groups, see the Group News pages.

Bowled over at Fleetwood
Despite wind, rain, thunder, lightening and brilliant sun, 62 bowlers from across the Province battled it out at The West Lancashire Charity Bowling Tournament.......<more>

SUMMER FAIR SUCCESS
Residents of Ecclesholme and committee members of the Association of Friends have extended thanks to the brethren and their families who attended the summer fair ....<more>

Homes are bowled over with £1,000 cheques
A deputation from the West Lancs Masonic Charity Bowling Tournament visited Ecclesholme to make presentations to both the Association of Friends of Ecclesholme and the Friends of Tithebarn............<more>

Warrington hosts conference
Warrington Masonic Fellowship had the honour of hosting the 27th annual conference of the national association of Masonic Fellowships..........<more>

Provincial tie goes on sale
The new tie for the Province “sold like hot cakes” when it went on sale for the first time at the meeting of Provincial Grand Chapter.................<more>

New Provincial charity launched
The merger of the seven Provincial Charities became a reality when, on 1 April 2008, the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity took over responsibility....<more>

HAVING A BALL AT BLACKPOOL
The Winter Gardens, Blackpool was packed with Brethren and Ladies from across the Province for the 148th Grand Masonic Festival and Ball................<more>

Province has its own tie
The new official tie for the Province of West Lancashire was sported by Colin Penty Wright when he was the principal guest at the Warrington Group Dinner....<more>

George, 92, is Province’s oldest initiate
It was a very special initiation ceremony at Hope Street, Liverpool, when 92-year-old George Paterson was initiated into Compass Lodge No 7052...........<more>

£4,100 for ultrasound scanner appeal
Brethren and friends of the Wigan and Garston Group of Lodges supported WBro.Alan Grice of Queen’s Lodge 2681 in his efforts to raise funds.........<more>

The Liobian Masonic Association
Membership of the Liobian Masonic Association is restricted to fully paid up members of a Masonic Lodge recognised by.............<more>

Despite wind, rain, thunder, lightening and brilliant sun, 62 bowlers from across the Province battled it out at The West Lancashire Charity Bowling Tournament with Southport’s Harry Jones taking the trophy.

Hosted this year by The South Fylde Group, Jim Bennett, Chairman of Blackpool and South Fylde Group thanked Fleetwood Bowling Club for its generosity and support.

He congratulated team officials, tournament chairman Peter Mason, secretary Brian Molyneux, treasurer Len Hart, assistant secretary Trevor Barber and thanked Khine Lynn for donating the winner and runner-up Commemorative Medals in memory of John Crewdson.

Jim presented a cheque for £4,000 to Peter Mason which will support West Lancashire Masonic Charities. Terry Hudson received a cheque for £2,000 towards the 2010 festival.

The raffle raised a magnificent £313 thanks to hard working ticket sellers and the contributors of prizes.

Leon Tax – Assistant Provincial Grand Master said: “This has been a superb day of fun and friendship with the icing on the cake being a £4,000 cheque to our Masonic charities. There has been a good attendance and I would like to thank the organisers and Fleetwood Bowling Club.”

The Winner was Harry Jones of the Southport Group who took the trophy with a 21-20 scorecard.

The Consolation Prize donated by Cyril McGibbon was won by R Froggatt – South Eastern after a hard fought 21-20 win against B Fairclough – Wigan.

Pictured are Jim Bennett, Brian Molyneux, Peter Mason, Leon Tax, Alf Short, Giles Berkley, Harry Jones, Terry Hudson, Khine Lynn.

Jade was featured in the latest edition of the West Lancashire Freemason after winning four gold and two silver medals at the World Transplant Games. Jade had received financial support from Freemasonry to take part in the games in Bangkok.

Now Jade, who had a heart transplant when she was only three has been to her first European Heart and Lung Games in Vichy, France. The 14-year-old, whose father Rob and grandfather Charles are both Freemasons in Warrington, returned with five gold medals and one bronze medal.

Jade struck gold in the 100m, long jump, badminton singles, badminton doubles and table tennis. She was part of the adult relay team and when she took over for the final leg the team was in last place. She stormed through to move into third place and another medal.

Jade’s story can be seen on Page 3 of the West Lancashire Freemason which can be viewed by clicking here

Residents of Ecclesholme and committee members of the Association of Friends have extended thanks to the brethren and their families who attended the summer fair which was held at Eccles Masonic Hall. Even though it was a wet day many people attended the event.

Thanks have also been extended to the Eccles Group for its continued support in allowing use of its facilities at Half Edge Lane.

The Summer Fair was opened by WBro CJ Mitchell, Assistant Provincial Grand Master of the Province of East Lancashire.

West Lancashire was represented by two Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, Dennis Rudd and Frank Wilkinson. Also in attendance was Alan Byers, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals and his wife Maye. There were also many group officials at the event including the new Chorley Group Chairman, John Robson and his wife Kathy.

The Chorley Group supported the event as it always does and with the spending generosity of all those attending the event a most profitable affair raised more than £1,500, excluding ticket sales. All the proceeds will be spent on enhancing the lives of residents at Ecclesholme.

More than 700 attended a Farewell Concert in Preston’s Guild Hall to mark the retirement of Provincial Grand Master, Colin Penty Wright.

The world famous Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band entertained the audience with a fantastic repertoire that included many well known marches and orchestral pieces. Everyone tapped their feet to the steady beat of Ravel’s ‘Bolero’, Spanish Eyes and listened intently to the talented young soloists playing cornet and euphonium.

Conductor Richard Evans was magnificent in wielding the baton along with his humorous jokes, anecdotes and interesting historical facts prior to conducting each performance.

Richard Evans referred to the opening piece which had been composed by Sam B Wood, the father of Morecambe Freemason Barry Wood, who was introduced to Richard backstage prior to the concert commencing.

Just before the interval, Stuart Thornber, Provincial Grand Charity Steward took to the stage and spoke of a successful first three years of the 2010 Festival that has raised and pledged a total of more than £3.5 million. Stuart commended the skills of David Winder who had worked so hard in arranging the concert and the other colleagues who have assisted in the management of the Festival to date.

Colin Wright, as President of the Festival received a framed certificate featuring the splendid amount raised and he thanked Stuart and his team for their commitment and talents in generating such a wonderful sum. Mrs Kathryn Wright received flowers and the Provincial Grand Master thanked David Winder and Stuart Thornber for this presentation.

A superb second half was completed by the awesome ‘Pines of Rome’ composed by Ottorino Respighi.

A rousing encore of ‘The Floral Dance’ completed a memorable evening, enjoyed by all.

Colin Penty Wright receiving a lesson in how to play the B-flat Bass from Brighouse and Rastrick Band member Mike Norton.

The Provincial Grand Stewards’ Chapter visited Southport Masonic Hall at the invitation of the Group Chairman, Chris Hamilton, to present a demonstration and explanation of the set up of a Chapter room. Scarisbrick Chapter played host to the meeting.

The Chapter Room was packed. In addition to members of the host Chapter and their personal guests, there were companions representing the Three Principals of each of the other 12 Chapters in the Southport Group. The Group Officials (Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary and Care Officers) attended along with Alan Byers, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals and IPZ of the Stewards’ Chapter.

They witnessed an interesting, colourful, visual and detailed explanation of the Chapter Banners, Ensigns and Furniture and how the Chapter Room was built up

There were 28 members of The Provincial Grand Stewards’ Chapter of West Lancashire on duty. They had travelled from as far away as Lancaster, Furness and South Lakes, Swinton, Fylde, Liverpool, Chorley and Wigan.

The Stewards’ Chapter was originally founded 29 years ago with a view to forming a membership that on appointment to the rank of Steward would be agreeable to be of service to the Royal Arch Province of West Lancashire, apart from establishing a friendship and reunion for those, who on first appointment as Stewards, were acting Officers in Provincial Grand Chapter. Membership is entirely voluntary. The Chapter has a pool of around 60 members, who have expressed a desire to take an active part in promoting the Royal Arch to enable companions to make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge, and who are chosen to take part in the demonstrations, under the "stewardship" of Bill Smith.

With that aim in view, the team has demonstrated the Ritual, "Variorum" as written by Geoffrey Lee, on 13 occasions to groups and Chapters in the south of the Province. "The Re-building of a Royal Arch Temple...." which was demonstrated to the Southport Group had been done previously at four other venues.

There is a tremendous spirit and enthusiasm within the team, as being drawn from every corner of the Province, they are all eager to share their local experiences/differences and the Companionship with those of like mind at different venues.

With that view the team was delighted to join with the members of Scarisbrick Chapter and all the visitors at a very relaxed Festive Board after the demonstration and to hear from the conversation and comments that all had found the demonstration to be of interest and that they had made an advancement in Masonic knowledge.

Companions of the Provincial Grand Stewards’ Chapter who took part in the demonstration.

Blackpool’s Savoy Hotel was buzzing with the energy of 150 brethren for its installation ceremony.

The outgoing Worshipful Master, Bill Eardley, installed Brian Sager in a well delivered ceremony, supported by Assistant Provincial Grand Master Dennis Rudd, along with many other distinguished Grand and Provincial Grand Officers.

Towards the end of proceedings in the improvised Lodge Room Secretary Peter Bentham announced that “Senatores Lodge of Installed Masters had this evening become the largest craft lodge in the Province of West Lancashire”.

A cheque for £1,500 was presented by Brian Sager to Dennis Rudd for the 2010 Festival. The cheque was presented in one of two beautiful carved wooden Alms Tankards created by Rodney Gee. These vessels also serve as ballot boxes.

The brethren were delighted to receive other new additions to their lodge equipment kindly made by Andrew Stansfield (wooden wands) and Alan Lock (machined/engraved aluminium wand stands). This equipment will serve the lodge for many years to come. Thanks go to all three brethren for their craftsmanship and commitment to Senatores Lodge of Installed Masters.

Pictured, left to right, at Senatores Lodge of Installed Masters are: Leon Tax, Terry Hudson, Steven Reid, Bill Eardley, Dennis Rudd, Brian Sager, Rodney Gee, Eric Picton and John Funk

At a regular meeting of Poulton le Sands Lodge No 1051 the brethren of the lodge bade a fond farewell to the Provincial Grand Master, Colin Penty Wright on his retirement and extended a very warm welcome to the new Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Lancaster and District Group, Philip Gardner.

Poulton Le Sands Lodge, the result of an amalgamation of Rowley, Sandylands and Poulton Hall Lodges is the mother lodge to both of these distinguished brethren.

In a very relaxed and informal atmosphere, Edward Peter Saunders, a Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master and a Past Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies gave a very entertaining and eloquent toast to the health of the Provincial Grand Master on his retirement. The brethren of his own lodge along with a good number of visitors listened intently whilst WBro Saunders told the brethren more about the man not the Mason.

Colin Penty Wright, in his own lodge for the last time as Provincial Grand Master, in his reply, explained the Masonic connections between Peter Saunders and himself back to the point when he was appointed Provincial Senior Grand Warden of the Province and Peter Saunders a Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies of the Province but their friendship and connections extended many years before this in their working life. He explained some of the facets of being the Provincial Grand Master, many of which happen behind the scenes and which obviously gave him great satisfaction and enjoyment. He did warn the current Worshipful Master, Bro Norman Howarth that he was likely to see a lot more of him in the future as commitments as Provincial Grand Master had sadly kept him away from his mother lodge more than he would have liked.

The Provincial Grand Master, whist on his feet, then turned his attention to welcoming the newly appointed Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Frank Philip Gardner, the former Chairman of the Group. In the toast to his health, Colin Wright gave an insight into the qualifications and qualities Philip Gardner has which will enable him to serve this part of the Province as an Assistant.

Iin his reply Philip thanked all the brethren for the support he had received during his entire Masonic career and that he felt very fortunate to be part of such a good team in the Lancaster and District Group. At the end of his response, the Worshipful Master presented the Provincial Grand Master with a bottle of malt whiskey on behalf of the lodge members. Philip Gardner then invited Anthony Harrison, the recently appointed Group Vice Chairman to present a gift to the retiring Provincial Grand Master as a token of the esteem and high regard with which he is held in his own group.

J. Anthony Harrison, Group Vice Chairman presents a gift to the Provincial Grand Master on behalf of all the members of the group.

Norman Howarth, Worshipful Master, presents the Provincial Grand Master with a gift from the lodge.

A deputation from the West Lancs Masonic Charity Bowling Tournament visited Ecclesholme to make presentations to both the Association of Friends of Ecclesholme and the Friends of Tithebarn.

The bowling chairman, Peter Mason, presented cheques of £1,000 to each association.

Gordon Rowe (East Lancs) Chairman of Ecclesholme thanked the West Lancs Province for its kind donation. Likewise, Laurie Scott, the Chairman of Friends of Tithebarn, thanked the bowling tournament for its continued support for residents at both Masonic homes.

Ecclesholme has just had the dining room refurbished and the Association of Friends has purchased tables, chairs, soft furnishings and cutlery and crockery for the dining area.

The generosity of the Brethren who subscribe to the home has allowed the committee members of the association to agree to extra soft furnishings for another area.

Thanks are extended to all Brethren and Companions who continue to support the bowling charity and make life that little more enjoyable for all the residents at the homes.

Ecclesholme and Tithebarn representatives each receive cheques for £1,000 from the West Lancs Masonic Charity Bowling Tournament.

These facts were revealed by the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr Mrs Rona Winkworth, when she opened a major exhibition celebrating 222 years of Freemasonry in Wigan.

The exhibition, “Freemasonry – It’s no secret”, is being held in conjunction with Wigan Heritage Services in the Taylor Gallery of the History Shop in Library Street, Wigan, and will run until 16 July.

After being welcomed to the exhibition by Assistant Provincial Grand Master Eddie Caulfield, Cllr Winkworth said: “It is a pleasure for me to be here at this exhibition on Freemasonry in Wigan.

“Freemasons are renowned for their charitable donations to national and local causes. Wigan and Leigh Hospice has been generously supported over the years as has Darian House Children’s Hospice and various medical charities including the North West Air Ambulance.

“Many youth organisations in Wigan have received grants to enable them to obtain equipment and to continue their work with the young citizens of the Borough. It is pleasing to see the shopmobility scooters which local Freemasons provided withing Wigan town centre to assist our older citizens for whom mobility is a problem when shopping.

“I is particularly appropriate for me as Mayor of Wigan to be present here because no less than 35 of my predecessors have been Freemasons. They have held the office of Mayor of Wigan on a total of 52 occasions.

“Freemasons in Wigan have devoted not just their money but their time, energy and enthusiasm to the cause of being happy and generating happiness among those who are less well off in the community.

“From the opening of the first lodge in Wigan in 1786 until today, Freemasons have served the local community.”

The 222 years of Freemasonry in Wigan with particular reference to its breakaway Grand Lodge which lasted for 90 years, including many items of historic interest

Freemasonry in the present day, with displays of regalia, photographs and brief details of its structure, and what takes place at meetings

The extensive leisure side of Freemasonry with many photographs and information of how it helps in the community at large through its major charitable work

The exhibition has Freemasons available to answer queries and to help the public better understand what Freemasonry is all about

Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master Canon John Sharples chats to Barbara Adderley, Grand Inspector for West Lancashire of the Order of Women Freemasons who had a section at the Wigan exhibition.

The Vice Chairman of the Wigan Group of Lodges, Malcolm Taylor, and group secretary Geoff Porter carefully examine an early 1800s jug which was used to take drink to the meal after lodge meetings in Wigan.

Assistant Provincial Grand Master Eddie Caulfield explains the different types of Masonic regalia to the Mayor of Wigan, Cllr Rona Winkworth when she opened the exhibition. On the right of the photograph are Wigan Group Chairman Danny Jones and exhibition organiser Fred Lomax.

Exhibition organiser Fred Lomax (right) is pictured with David Randerson who produced the informative panels for the event and Wigan Metro Collections Assistant Jenny Broadbent who helped stage the displays.

One of the items on display is the Master’s Collar bearing the jewel which belonged to Lindsay Lodge No 1335. Lord Lindsay, 26th Earl of Crawford and 9th Earl of Balcarres, was the first Master of the Lodge which was named after him in 1870. Hold the collar is John Mason who was the last WM of Lindsay Lodge before it merged with Bryn Lodge.

At the meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge in Blackpool Gareth Royston Jones was invested as Senior Warden while David Winder became Junior Warden.

Gareth Royston Jones was Initiated into Barlow More Lodge No 4525 in the South Eastern Group in 1991 and was Installed as Worshipful Master in 1998. His first Provincial rank was Provincial Grand Steward in 2003 and promotion to Past Provincial Deputy Grand Superintendent of Works followed in 2007.

In the Royal Arch, Gareth was Exalted into Architect Chapter No 1375 in 1994 and served as First Principal in 2000. In 2004 he served as Provincial Grand Steward and in this year was promoted to Past Provincial Duty Grand Sword Bearer. He is also a member of several other Masonic orders where he has had the opportunity to serve in high Provincial office.

Gareth is a scientist by profession and until recently headed the biological and medical research facilities at the national synchrotron radiation source at Daresbury near Warrington.

He has authored more than 100 scientific articles and patents throughout his career and now practices as an independent consultant helping small spinout companies develop discoveries and inventions made in large Government laboratories principally in the area of medical diagnosis. Although formally retired, Gareth continues in many of his academic pursuits such as delivering lectures both in the United Kingdom and overseas. He also undertakes research projects through his honorary ties with Daresbury and the University of Liverpool.

Outside work and Freemasonry Gareth regularly enjoys a round of golf with his wife, Patricia, at Mere Golf and Country Club. He also enjoys attending meetings of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society where he has been a member for many years. To make up for the time spent on his Provincial Grand Warden duties this year, Gareth has promised that he will take up French conversation classes with Patricia.

David Winder was initiated into Ribble Lodge No 4558 in 1993 and served as WM in 2000. He was Exalted into Ribble Chapter in 1997. He is a member of several other Lodges and Chapters including Setantia Lodge of Installed Masters No 7755 of which he was WM in 2002. David was appointed as a Provincial Grand Steward in 2004 and in the Royal Arch was Provincial Grand Standard Bearer in 2006, the same year as he became Preston Group Secretary. He has also been appointed to the 2010 Festival final event organising committee.

David, 49, has been married to Susan for 28 years and they have a daughter and a son. He joined Lancashire Constabulary as a police cadet and this led to him becoming a police constable in 1976 serving in Blackpool. He moved to Preston in the traffic section and then to motorcycles leading to becoming a motorcycle and car instructor for the constabulary. When he retired from the force in 2006 he had attained the rank of Inspector. He was commended by the Chief Constable on two occasions, once for saving life and once for Problem Solving Policing. David studied at UCLAN and attained a Diploma in Management Studies to go with previous qualifications.

A Manchester United fan, David has been a keen golfer since the age of 12 and his current handicap is six. He represented the Constabulary at golf and badminton for many years. He greatly enjoys sea fishing.

He has an interest in music, particularly the piano and organ. He says that like Les Dawson he can play all of the right notes but not necessarily in the right order. David assists many Lodges and side degrees playing the organ at ceremonies. He enjoys taking long walks with his field springer spaniel who has become an excellent ritualist.

Four new Assistant Provincial Grand Masters

Four new Assistant Provincial Grand Masters were invested at the meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge in Blackpool.

Stanley Oldfield will be responsible for Liverpool Trafalgar and Liverpool Wellington Groups while Howard Jones will be over the Lodges in the Bootle and Garston Groups. Frank Wilkinson is over the Lodges in the Leyland Group and the Chorley and District Group while Philip Gardner is the new Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Furness and South Lakeland and Lancaster and District Groups.

Stanley Oldfield was initiated into Pemberton Lodge in 1971 and served as WM in 1984. His first Provincial appointment came in 1990 when he was a Provincial Grand Steward before becoming Provincial Junior Grand Warden in 1994. From 2001 to 2004 he served as Wigan Group Chairman. He was appointed to the rank of PAGDC in 1997 and promoted to PJGD in 2005.

He is also a member of Quingenti Lodge and Lathom Lodge. Stanley was exalted into Corinthian Chapter in 1973 and was First Principal in 1988. His first Provincial appointment in the Royal Arch was as Provincial Grand Sword Bearer in 1992 and this was followed by promotion to PPrGSN in 1995. From 2004 until it was announced that he was to become an Assistant Provincial Grand Master he served as Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals. A retired police officer, he was appointed to the rank of PGStdB in 1997 and promoted to PAGSoj in 2006.

Howard Jones has had a long association with charities in the Province. He was initiated into King’s Lodge in 1972 and served as WM in 1983 and again in 1995. He has also been a member of the Lodge of Peace and Unity (of which he was WM in 2008), Festival Lodge and Lathom Lodge. In 1991 he was appointed Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works and was Provincial Junior Grand Warden in 1996.

He was appointed as a Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies in 2000. Exalted into King’s Chapter in 1981, he has also been a member of Vale Chapter (service as First Principal in 2004), the Chapter of Perseverance (of which he served as First Principal in 2000) and Holy Royal Architect Chapter. A retired bank manager, Howard was appointed to the rank of PPrGSN in 2006.

Frank Wilkinson served as Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Chorley and District Group of Lodges until his appointment as an Assistant Provincial Grand Master. He was initiated in Anderton Lodge in 1983 and served as Worshipful Master in 1992. A founder of Dona Conferentes Lodge, Frank has also been a member of Horwich Lodge, Quingenti Lodge, Lathom Lodge, Phoenix Lodge of Installed Masters and Coronation Lodge of Installed Masters.

He was appointed as a Provincial Grand Steward in 1994 and was promoted to the rank of PPrGSuptWks in 1998. He served as Provincial Senior Grand Warden in 1999 before receiving the rank of PAGDC in 2003. Frank was exalted into Horwich Chapter in 1983 and was First Principal in 1999. In 2003 he was appointed as a Provincial Grand Steward and was promoted to PPrGSN in 2006. Frank, who is a photographic equipment retailer, was appointed PGStdB in 2008.

Legal executive Philip Gardner was initiated into Poulton Hall Lodge in 1982 serving as Worshipful Master 10 years later. He has also been WM of Quingenti Lodge (1997) and Poulton le Sands Lodge (2002). He is also a member of Plantagenet Lodge of Installed Masters and Lathom Lodge. In 1995 he was appointed as a Provincial Grand Steward and was promoted to the rank of PPrJGW in 1999.

He became a Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies in 2003. Exalted into Heysham Chapter in 1985, he served as First Principal in 1998. He is also a member of Vale Chapter. Philip’s first Royal Arch promotion was in 1999 when he was made a PPrPGSoj which was followed by being appointed PPrGSN in 2007. He was made a PGStdB in 2007. Philip has served the Lancaster Group as Secretary, Vice Chairman and Chairman.

New Assistants

The four new Assistant Provincial Grand Masters (left to right): Frank Wilkinson, Stanley Oldfield, Philip Gardner and Howard Jones.

Warrington Masonic Fellowship had the honour of hosting the 27th annual conference of the national association of Masonic Fellowships.

In all 63 delegates representing Masonic Fellowships from all parts of the country attended the meeting in Warrington Masonic Hall.

Before the business session started there was a carvery lunch with a glass of wine.

The guests were greeted by Ian Boswell, chairman of the Warrington Group of Lodges, who gave a summary of the origins of Masonic Fellowships.

During an open forum delegates gave their views on different aspects ofr the Fellowships, mainly how to generate interest and to encourage more people to join.

Masonic Fellowships are organisations to enhance the cultural and social life of Freemasons who have retired, their wives or partners, retired wives of working Brethren or widows of deceased Brethren.

Stanley Churm, president of the Warrington Fellowship, thanked the delegates for their attendance and wishes them a safe journey home.

The 28th annual conference will be hosted next year by Audenshaw Masonic Fellowship.

David Brookes and Arthur Walton of the Warrington Masonic Fellowship chat to David Horth (right) who is chairman of the Audenshaw Masonic Fellowship which will host next year's event.

The new tie for the Province “sold like hot cakes” when it went on sale for the first time at the meeting of Provincial Grand Chapter.

The “Provincial Office” in the Guildhall was kept busy as Royal Arch members took the first opportunity to buy and wear the tie. The tie has a black background, maroon and pale blue stripes (to represent Craft and Chapter colours) a red rose and the square and compasses in gold. It was designed by Les Ashcroft, a member of the True Light Lodge of Friendship No 2963.

The tie was on sale in two versions, a polyester costing £9 and a silk one at £15.

Purchasers were all given guidance on when the tie can be worn. It may be worn at any meeting of a Lodge or Chapter within the Province of West Lancashire and at the meetings of Provincial Grand Lodge and Chapter of West Lancashire.

The tie may be worn in public but must not be worn at any Masonic meeting outside the Province of West Lancashire. The tie must not be worn at meetings of Grand Lodge or Supreme Grand Chapter.

The tie will be on sale again at the meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge at Blackpool on May 12. Arrangements are being made for Groups throughout the Province to order supplies of the tie for their members.

Dave Sweeney and Steve Nickson sell a tie to David Randerson, Vice Chairman of the South Fylde Group.

John and Pat Russell made a memorable trip to London to crown a very eventful year for the WM of Cleveleys Park Lodge and his wife in the Lodge’s Golden Jubilee year.

For John and Pat were invited to London to attend a reception for the President of France, Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Carla, held at the French Ambassador’s residence.

The reason for the trip to Kensington Palace Gardens was in response to an invitation to John as one of only 12 British sailors surviving in the UK who served in the Free French Forces under General de Gaulle during the Second World War.

The reception was held in a large marquee on the lawns of the residence with John resplendent in both his English and French medals.

On Pat and John’s arrival they were escorted along a long covered approach on each side of which there was a guard of honour of French sailors who saluted the Cleveleys couple as they walked past.

On entering the marquee they were escorted by naval officers to seats reserved for the veterans.

John said that though there was about 300 people present at the reception, mostly from the French community in London, all had to stand - with the only seats provided for the honoured veterans.

After Le President and Madame Sarkozy arrived and took the stage he addressed the gathering with a stirring speech some of which he had made to Parliament the previous day.

There was a champagne buffet and as John wryly puts it: “You could have anything to drink you wished as long as it was champagne which flowed like water!”

The British veterans enjoyed their reunion though there were only 10 of them present and due to the fact that John was a boy seaman of 17 years of age when serving with the Free French. Now at the age of 81 he is the youngest of the veterans, most of whom are well into their 80s.

John says: “Although we keep in touch by newsletters and emails we stopped having annual reunions in 2000 and this is very likely the last time we will get together. Really could it be a better final meeting than in the presence of the President of France?”

The merger of the seven Provincial Charities became a reality when, on 1 April 2008, the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity took over responsibility for handling the collection and dispersal of charitable funds in the Craft and Royal Arch Province of West Lancashire.

The formation of the charity is the second major phase of the new Care structure and will result in it being the largest Masonic charity outside the Grand Charities. It will be distributing around £750,000 each year to those in need.

Although the charity itself is new, its history will go back to 1850 when the first of the Provincial charities, The West Lancashire Masonic Educational Trust, was created, and it will continue the fine tradition of that charity and the other charities which have served the Province so well.

The charity is fortunate to retain the involvement of volunteers from all the charities in handling applications for financial assistance and has been strengthened by the addition of the Care Office team at Hope Street, thereby enabling it to provide an all-round service.

More information on the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity can be found on its website www.westlancscharity.org.uk

The Winter Gardens, Blackpool was packed with Brethren and Ladies from across the Province for the 148th Grand Masonic Festival and Ball. All proceeds from the evening will be distributed between The West Lancashire Masonic Charities and the 2010 Festival.

A sumptuous dinner was enjoyed by all in The Ballroom, followed by dancing in the beautiful Spanish Hall.

During dinner the address was given by Festival Chairman Antonis Georges who paid tribute to the huge efforts of the Festival Organising Committee and their partners. This was mentioned further in a following address by the Provincial Grand Master who congratulated the outgoing Honorary Secretary Alex Sharp and his wife Marjorie. The Provincial Grand Master presented Alex and Marjorie with a retirement gift of a Wall Clock as a token of esteem for 10 years of commitment towards this important Masonic event.

Later, in The Spanish Hall everyone joined in the Grand March led by the Provincial Grand Master and Mrs Wright.

Alex and Marjorie Sharp – retiring Honorary Secretary of the Festival following the presentation.

It was a chance conversation between author and Masonic historian the Rev VWBro Neville Barker Cryer and WBro.Fred Lomax, who is now WM of the Manchester Lodge for Masonic Research No 5502 which led to a highly successful evening when more than 130 Masons witnessed the officers of Lodge of Faith No 484 present a excellent First Degree ceremony with commentary provided by members of the Wigan District Association for Masonic Research.

This type of demonstration with commentaries is aimed at giving a better understanding of our ceremonies and it has always been Neville’s wish that they should benefit those who have recently joined the Craft. It was with his sanction that the demonstration took place before a packed lodge room at Bryn Masonic Hall.

Five commentators strategically placed around the room paused the proceedings at various stages to give an explanation of the ceremony as it unfolded.

Numerous Entered Apprentices, Fellowcrafts and Master Masons, not only from the Wigan Group, but also from Leigh, Bolton, Liverpool, Southport and even Cheshire attended the event which was fully supported by the Wigan Group.

Similar events, for the Second and Third Degree ceremonies are planned for the future.

David Mills, Chairman of the Group said: “It was a brilliant occasion, which far exceeded my wildest dreams when we started the whole idea. The WM was exceptionally good, particularly as he himself has only been in the Craft for a relatively short time.

I was also delighted for our Mentors, who I am sure will have received a boost to their work and it will make people realize what can be achieved if we all pull together.”

The new official tie for the Province of West Lancashire was sported by Colin Penty Wright when he was the principal guest at the Warrington Group Dinner.

It was appropriate that the Provincial Grand Master wore the tie for the first time in Warrington as it had been designed by Les Ashcroft, a member of the True Light Lodge of Friendship No 2963 who was at the dinner.

The Provincial Grand Master told more than 100 members of the Group at the dinner that West Lancashire was one of the few Provinces which did not have its own tie. He thanked Les Ashcroft for his skill in designing the tie and also negotiating for its production. Les, he said, had provided several designs and the Provincial Cabinet had made the final selection.

The Provincial Grand Master said the tie can be worn at Craft and Chapter meetings within the Province of West Lancashire but should not be worn when visiting other Provinces. “I hope the tie will be worn by everyone in the Province,” said the Provincial Grand Master.

The tie will go on sale for the first time at the meeting of Provincial Grand Chapter on 16 April at Preston. A decision has yet to be made on how the ties will be sold after that meeting.

There will be two versions of the tie, a woven polyester costing under £10 and a woven silk version which will sell for under £15.

Profits from the sale of the ties will initially go to the 2010 Festival and after that to the new Provincial charity fund.

The Provincial Grand Master wore the new Provincial tie
at the Warrington Group Dinner.

Colin Penty Wright thanks Les Ashcroft for his work
in designing the new Provincial tie.

It was a very special initiation ceremony at Hope Street, Liverpool, when 92-year-old George Paterson was initiated into Compass Lodge No 7052.

Information available makes him the oldest Entered Apprentice in the history of the Province of West Lancashire. Enquiries to Grand Lodge have been made and although they cannot say with complete certainty, they believe that he may well be the oldest in UK history.

This story began in 1938 when George was invited into Freemasonry by a friend, but unfortunately his friend died suddenly, before George could be recommended. Due to the fact that Freemasonry was less open at that time, he was left not knowing who to contact and so he was never able to join, something he has regretted over the years.

George is an amazing character who has led a very interesting life. While serving with the British army during the Second World War, he was a military weapons designer and was appointed to a position with the impressive title of “Technical advisor to the director of carriages of guns NATO”.

He then held various posts running Royal Army Ordinance Corps factories for the Ministry of Defence, finally heading up Fazakerley Engineering in Liverpool, where he manufactured rifles for the British army.

George was coaxed out of retirement in 1973 when he was asked by the president of Korea to go to Seoul and design and supervise the construction of the Kia motor plant which was completed in 1976. He finally took a well deserved retirement in 1979.

George spent a happy retirement with his late wife Iris, who in her younger days had been a mezzo soprano at Covent Garden and who later became a singer with the George Melachrino Orchestra. He spent many an enjoyable hour making things on his lathe, at his home Hightown, Merseyside which he does to this day.

The story may have ended here, but as luck would have it George struck up a friendship with his neighbour Stephen Faulkner. George discovered that Stephen was a member of the fraternity and told him his story and this led to George finally being initiated into Freemasonry, 70 years after first being invited to join.

George is still a very active and lively character and there is no doubt that in the future the Lodge can look forward to him becoming WM when he is 100.

Brethren and friends of the Wigan and Garston Group of Lodges supported WBro.Alan Grice of Queen’s Lodge 2681 in his efforts to raise funds towards the cost of an ultrasound scanner for the Cancer Breast Care Unit at the Wigan Royal Infirmary.

The events supported included an Old Time Music Hall and a Burns’ Night which were both held at Pemberton Masonic Hall.

Donations were also received from Brethren as a result of visits by Alan to Lodges across the Province of West Lancashire.

The West Lancashire Community Fund also supported Alan’s efforts by matching his total which in turn raised the magnificent sum of £4,132.29 which was presented to Mr RLN Harland, a Consultant breast cancer surgeon at the Thomas Linacre Centre.

Alan thanks all those who attended the functions including the local businesses who contributed so generously in donating prizes for the raffles.

Pictured at the cheque presentation are breast cancer surgeon Mr RLN Harland, Alan Grice, Sister Christine Roberts and David Mills, Chairman of the Wigan Group of Lodges.

Jack Milner has a great family - his mother works for BAe Systems, his dad is a communications engineer, and he has a sister Jennifer. They are a great family and an inspiration to many as to how families should be. Jack attends Penwortham Priory Sports and Technology College, and his favourite subject is technology. At the moment, when he leaves formal education he wants to go into graphic design, and he has the capability judging by his performance so far. He’s not much bothered about sport, but he enjoys the company of a group of good friends, and he likes to go fishing now and again.

Jack Milner has a problem, though. He suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, which means that he needs a wheelchair to get around. Some time ago it became apparent that he needed a new chair as he was rapidly outgrowing the one he had, and his parents John and Pam set about the process of evaluating what Jack needed. Their research identified the ideal vehicle for Jack.

That vehicle was the ‘Quantum 600’ – the cost, including vital special seating so that Jack could stretch out whilst in the chair, was £9,385. This was a substantial amount, but being the people they are, Jack’s parents launched an appeal to raise the necessary funds. The fund had raised part of the finance, but it was clear that it would be some time before the final cost was realised.

Enter the Freemasons in the form of the Almoner of the Lodge of Good Fellowship No 5901 in Preston. Jack’s grandfather has been a member of the Lodge for many years, but he had become ill and was in hospital, so the Almoner had gone to visit him. At the bedside the Almoner got into a conversation with the grandfather’s daughter, Jack’s mum, and discovered that she had a son who needed a new wheelchair.

It was logical that the Freemasons provide assistance if possible. The Almoner explored several channels but was initially unable to source the necessary funding. However, being persistent, and working along with his contacts within Freemasonry, his persistence eventually paid off when he contacted the West Lancashire Masonic Educational Trust who, to his delight, was able to provide the full balance of the cost of the chair for Jack. In the way people his age do with technology, Jack soon familiarised himself with the chair, and now he is fully mobile in it. The chair has an added advantage for Jack because it can be adjusted into almost any position, and since Jack cannot move around that is important to avoid pressure on any sensitive areas.

Jack’s change of chair will have a knock-on effect for a little girl in Tanzania. He is sending the chair he has grown out of to her to replace her current transport – a white plastic garden chair with added wheels!

The Milners’ search has not ended though – Jack’s transport is a very complex machine and although his folks are competent enough to see what needs to be done; it will need some expensive specialist maintenance in the future. The Lodge of Good Fellowship has undertaken to review Jack’s needs with a view to possibly providing further financial assistance in the future.

So the search for finance goes on, but whatever life holds for Jack, he will know that he could not be part of a better family than the Milners.

A charity which provides support for children and young people following the loss of a loved one has been given a financial boost by Freemasons.

The Butterflies Project is part of the Listening Ear charity which was set up in 1999. It is based at the St Nicholas Centre, in Church Road, Halewood, Liverpool, where volunteers run the charity without any charge to the users and is open to all.

The Butterflies Project provides counselling support for children and young people following bereavement or loss. It helps them to come to terms with the loss of a loved one, often a parent following death. It also gives help to youngsters following the separation or divorce of their parents.

WBro David Brown, of the Prince of Architects Lodge No 4188, first came into contact with the Butterflies Project when his son-in-law died in October 2004. He left a widow and two young children who then seven and five. The counselling by the Butterflies team consisted of twice weekly sessions for six weeks of one hour each on a one-to-one basis There are also twice yearly get-togethers (which still continue) at no cost to the family. These sessions, with such friendly and competent volunteers, helped David’s grandchildren come to terms with their loss and although they still miss their father, they can now concentrate on remembering the good times.

WBro Brown recommends that similarly affected children be introduced to the Butterflies Project because of the positive results the volunteers have had on his grandchildren. However, money is required for maintenance of the building, heat and light and general administration.

WBro. Brown was delighted when the members of the Prince of Architects Lodge agreed to make a generous donation towards these costs. Mrs Tracy Allen, the Butterflies Co-ordinator, was pleased to receive the cheque in the presence of David’s two grandchildren. She said that the money will be used to furnish a new room especially for teenagers, where the requirement is different to the rooms used for young children. The demand for such a facility has doubled in recent months.

WBro David Brown presents the cheque from the Prince of Architects Lodge to Mrs Tracy Allen, the Butterflies Project Co-ordinator.

David Brown's grandchildren, Oliver (aged 10) and eight-year-old Amelia are pictured with Tracy Allen

Membership of the Liobian Masonic Association is restricted to fully paid up members of a Masonic Lodge recognised by the United Grand Lodge of England and have attended the Liverpool Institute High School for Boys, Mount Street, Liverpool, as a pupil or master, for a period of more than one term, or is a graduate of the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA).

The formation of the Association began in 1970, when Bro Cyril McGibbon, a former pupil and Governor of the Liverpool Institute High School for Boys, was appointed Senior Warden of the Province of West Lancashire. To honour this preferment, the late Bro Cyril James and the late Bro Reg Brooks arranged a dinner at the old Racquet Club, Liverpool, in 1971, which was attended by 21 Masons, who were all Liobians. It was agreed that another dinner should be held and efforts made to contact further former pupils of the school. In the event, a second dinner was held in 1972, when other Liobians had been traced, including the late Bro Percy A Shaw and the late Bro R Trevor Evans. It was at this function that it was decided to form the Liobian Masonic Association.

The objects of the Association are to afford facilities for meeting one another, for the entertainment of our ladies and ourselves. This is usually achieved by means of an annual dinner and a ladies’ function. If you wish to become a member of the Liobian Masonic Association please contact the Registrar: Bro. David Anderton, 15 Childwall Park Avenue, Liverpool, L16 0JE or e-mail da@freerapid.net

The Assistant Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England, RWBro David Kenneth Williamson, made his first visit to the Province of West Lancashire and attended the Installation meeting of Quingenti Lodge at Hope Street Masonic Hall.

Earlier in the day, following lunch with the Cabinet our Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Colin Penty Wright, accompanied the Assistant Grand Master on a guided tour of the Chapter House at the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. The Chapter House was provided by the Freemasons of West Lancashire.

They were shown around by one of the official guides who is a well known Liverpool Freemason WBro. Robin Finnegan PPrJGW.

The Assistant Grand Master then attended Quingenti Lodge which was attended by 180 brethren.

RW.Bro. Colin Penty Wright, Provincial Grand Master for the Province of West Lancashire,welcome RWBro David Kenneth Williamson, Assistant Grand Master.

The Provincial Grand Master is photographed showing the Assistant Grand Master a medallion loaned to him by WBro Cyril McGibbon PAPrGM which had been "Presented to WBro Thomas Smith WM of Perseverance Lodge 155 by WBro Very Rev FW Dwelly, to commemorate the first Masonic Lodge Meeting held in the Liverpool Cathedral Chapter House on the 18th day of October 1935". The Very Rev. Dwelly was a Steward and a Past Master of Perseverance Lodge at the time and notably was also the Dean of Liverpool Cathedral which is the most senior office at the Cathedral.

The Assistant Grand Master is pictured chatting with members and guests at Quingenti Lodge Installation before the social board started.

The residents of Ecclesholme have been presented with a computer system by WBro John Shaw PPrJGD of Pendlebury Lodge No 8177.

The computer was installed under the watchful eye of RMBI Manager Julie Deakin. John had upgraded his computer but did not want to discard his old machine which he said had plenty of life so he decided to donate it to Ecclesholme.

Mrs Deakin said it would be a welcome addition to the home and it is planned to connect the machine to the Internet which will allow residents to write emails and surf the web.

Eccleshome resident Desmond Bell was the first to try the computer under the watchful eye of manager Julie Deakin and John Shaw who donated the system to the centre.

WBro Dr Ramesh Gandhi could not attend Provincial Grand Lodge in October because the date clashed with his Investiture with the OBE by Her Majesty The Queen.

He said: “The day was warm, sunny and bright. Everyone at the Palace was helpful. The atmosphere was very convivial and mostly informal, only the actual ceremony was formal. It was the most enjoyable and memorable day, as I felt proud, privileged and humble. I do think the real credit goes to family, especially my wife May, the people of Lancashire in general and Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde in particular as they supported all my community activities, which include fighting twice to keep the Cardiac Unit in Blackpool (1988 to 1990 & 1998 to 2000) and supporting two major appeals - MRI Scanner Appeal and Macmillan Windmill Appeal.

“The Freemasons have been great and donated a large sum towards these two appeals, approximately around £100,000.”

W Bro Dr Ramesh Gandhi and his wife May are pictured following the investiture by Her Majesty The Queen