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Bolton and Farnworth Giving Evening

They came from all over in eager anticipation. They represented charities throughout the length and breadth of the district and a little beyond. They left a couple of hours later full of smiles. Some laughed others giggled one or two were seen to skip. It should be added that they were the younger beneficiaries but above all; all of them were delighted that they had been remembered by the Freemasons of Bolton and Farnworth.

The Chairman of the District Ian Thornton opened the event and in words of welcome he told everybody present how proud he was to be a Freemason. He highlighted the good that Mason’s do and that every penny donated to Charity came for Freemasons’ own pockets. Of course this makes Freemasonry the largest donator to Charity in the UK. The National Lottery may give more but that is other people’s money.

The giving came fast and furious and each of the 44 donations made a grand total of £22,626.00. These were eagerly and gratefully received and will surely be faithfully applied. These donations were to benefit a wide cross section of the community. The operative word being benefit. Some were to be used for sporting activities for young people, many for the hospices which none of us knows when we shall have to use them and hopefully never shall and of course for the medical requirements which many freemasons now use.

The evening was closed by Philip Mountford, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Area and his Worship The Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Norman A Critchley accompanied by the Mayoress, Mrs Critchley.

A cheque was presented to The Mayor in the sum of £250.00 for this year’s Mayoral Charity whilst Mrs Critchley received a magnificent Bouquet from the evening’s lead organiser Terry Kakoulis, the District Charity Steward.

Retirement of Trevor Thomas as AProvGP

EComp Trevor Thomas, known affectionately to all as T T, has retired from his position of Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals, with responsibility for Central Area 2, at the last meeting of Provincial Grand Chapter held on 18th March 2010 in Blackburn.

Trevor has held positions of responsibility in Bolton District for many years being a past District Chairman. If this is his last position of note then he will be sadly missed but it is said that, “You can’t keep a good man down.”

To mark this momentous occasion the wives and partners of those comprising the Bolton and Bury District Committees brought along those who are totally dependant on them to the Red Lion at Hawkshaw, to give Trevor “A Reet Good Send Off.”  And ‘a reet good do it were too’ with a splendid evening being had by all, with good food, interesting and entertaining company which was crowned when Philip Mountford APGM accompanied by his wife Josie presented Trevor with a watch that we were assured actually works. The evening would not have been complete without a special floral tribute to Christine, his wife, who has ensured for years that when Trevor turns out to a meeting he is always smart and has everything that he needs with him.

May Trevor and Christine, hopefully, enjoy more time together but if he is called upon once more to take up the cudgel it is certain he will jump at the opportunity.

A Great Evening on the Wild Side

All those who attended the Wild Life Evening at Farnworth on Friday 12th February 2010 had a great evening. There were four types of Owl on show and a presentation on the work done by the Gentleshaw Wildlife Centre & Bird of Prey Hospital was given by Dave Bridgeford, the static display co-ordinator. This included how the centre and the Bird of Prey hospital started and the death of its founder.

The photographs are taken by members of both Euclid Lodge and Meribah Chapters who organised the evening. In total £90.00 was raised on the evening for the RMBI 2015 Festival . A special thank you to Dave Bridgeford for making the evening a success.

All those who supported the evening which everybody enjoyed and the children who attended were well behaved and really got close up and had their photographs taken with the Owls. This was really a family event.

Thank are due to John & Mary Shaw for the invaluable help they so kindly provided. The potato pie went down so well that the children decided they liked it to. (Kids menu what menu)?

Dave Bridgeford kindly donated a book entitled FAUNA BRITANNICA The Practical Guide to Wild & Domestic Creatures of Britain by Duff Hart-Davis this was not put in to the raffle as it was felt that it would make more money if there was a separate raffle. So if anyone wants to start the bid they are quite welcome.

The next event will be later this year, what will it be? Hmm don’t know yet but I will keep you posted, but for next year I could do with a field or an indoor show jumping arena. Can anyone help?
Thank you.

Amalgamation of New Trinity Lodge Number 4595

The Amalgamation of Lodges has become a regular feature in our Masonic Calendar. In this day of reducing Lodge members, it enables those masons who remain to carry on their Freemasonry.

Recently Georgian Lodge Number 4595 and Golden Jubilee Lodge Number  8816 amalgamated to form New Trinity Lodge Number 4595. There had been an earlier amalgamation involving Orlando Lodge Number 9148 and Golden Jubilee Lodge. These lodges formed the 'New Trinity'.

Once the Lodge had been opened, a Provincial Delegation was formed, leading in The Deputy Provincial Grand Master, WBro Harold Woodward, who occupied the Chair of King Solomon. The British pride themselves in their ability to carry out ceremonies and nowhere is this done better than in East Lancashire. Brethren who form part of the Delegation and who may not have been at any of the practices just assume their positions, adapt to their roles and carry out their duties with dignity and sincerity. This was very evident throughout this ceremony.

Prior to the Amalgamation Ceremony the Deputy Provincial Grand Master informed the brethren to never underestimate the hard work involved in making an Amalgamation happen. He advised the assembled brethren that 'History holds the future in its hands'. Giving away his Sunday evening viewing habits the DepPGM quoted Robert Timmins, one of the characters from 'Larkrise to Candleford', by saying “We might have finished with the past but the past hasn’t finished with us", which may be interpreted that although 3 Lodges had now become one their respective histories will stay with us.

The Certificate of Amalgamation was read by the Provincial Secretary, WBro Allan Garnett, following which the Provincial Grand Chaplain delivered an Oration in which he reflected on Lodges united. He also read extracts from the opening verses of John’s Gospel comparing them to the opening steps in a new Masonic future.

At the conclusion of the Ceremony of Amalgamation, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master delivered the Warrants and Certificate of Amalgamation to the Lodge after which he addressed the brethren. He started by conveying the message of the Provincial Grand Master who congratulated the brethren on their vision.

As part of his address the DepPGM advised the brethren of the old adage, 'Failing to plan, is planning to fail', and that he could see how much planning had gone into this Amalgamation. He added that Freemasonry demands compliance and is a 24 hour commitment with a lifetime's apprenticeship. He advised that what we leave behind  is not enshrined in stone but is what we leave to others. He called upon those present that if they wanted to make a real difference to stand firm and not to compromise our standards. One of the aims of Freemasonry was to make 'Good Men Better Men'.  He further advised that we should equip ourselves to be in good shape, to focus on what is right and what is wrong and that we should find stepping stones not stumbling blocks. He concluded by saying, ‘Failure is not an option.’

What was happening in 1960

In 1960 The Bolton Evening News cost 3d, The Bank Rate was set at 4% and if you were a driver drive a Driving Licence would set you back17s 6d.

It was also the year that Fred Evans was initiated into Charity Centenary Lodge No 3786. To mark this event, 50years to the day or night in 2010, Fred celebrated his Golden Anniversary in freemasonry. To help him 64 members and invited guests gathered at Farnworth Masonic Hall these included a District Deputation led by W Bro Philip Mountford.

The secretary of the lodge read the minutes of the meeting held on 27th January 1960 which was held at ‘The Stump’ or to the uninitiated The Rawson’s Arms in Farnworth. There were 46 present at the meeting and the Charity Box realised the sum of £4.4s.0d. Fred learnt his craft the long way, waiting until 1974 to occupy the Chair of King Solomon which he is again occupying during his 50th Anniversary year. Fred became a Royal Arch Mason with Meribah Chapter and now through a series of promotions holds the senior provincial ranks in both Craft and Royal Arch. He is also a founder member of Darley Chapter.

If a full business and Masonic life coupled with a family life was not enough, Fred was also a member of Kearsley Amateur Operatic Society, relishing the leading roles in most of their productions. In later life when he found time on his hands he started The Clifton Songsters. One of the reasons given for Fred joining masonry was that he was in the ‘The Stump’ as a customer one evening when he heard singing coming from the upstairs of the ‘pub’, realising that this needed improving on. When he asked who was trying to sing upstairs, he was told the freemasons, so he made enquiries about joining Freemasonry and the rest as they say is history.

W Bro J D Collier paid a tribute to Fred on behalf of the Lodge, in which he outlined his honesty and warmth and described him as a fearless leader of the lodge. W Bro Mountford paid his own tribute and on behalf of the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master presented Fred with a scroll and certificate commemorating his terrific achievement. On behalf of Bolton District, W Bro Mountford also presented him with a 50years lapel badge.

In return, on behalf of Charity Centenary Lodge, Fred presented a cheque to W Bro Mountford in the sum of £1,200.00 for the 2015 Festival. A magnificent gesture to crown a splendid occasion.

We shall have to wait until the end of the year for the next instalment, when Fred celebrates his 50th Anniversary as a Royal Arch Mason.

The Curse of Cancer

Cancer has no friends.
It knows no boundaries
It is a curse that defies comprehension.
I imagine that it is debilitating and defiant resisting many attempts trying to banish it.

We know that great strides have been made during the past few years in the treatment of all forms of cancer some more successfully than others. Freemasons are the most generous of people and in order to help those who are suffering from the traumas inflicted by cancer, donations are made regularly to Hospices throughout the length and breadth of the UK. Hospices offer respite and palliative care to sufferers. This however comes at a price. Each year The Grand Charity donates a total of about £500,000.00 to Hospices in England and Wales. One of the Hospices to benefit from these donations is our own Bolton Hospice.

I entered Bolton Hospice slightly early for an appointment with the Fundraising Manager, Matt Boyle and after a warm welcome was asked to wait in the reception area where everybody who passed me looked straight at me and gave me the warmest of smiles. Smiles that must be very reassuring for parents of relatives and friends visiting patients. The reception area besides being welcoming had an air of warmth and serenity despite the entrance doors being wide open so that engineers could carry out repairs.

In conversation with Matt Boyle, he told me that it costs £2.45 million pounds every year to keep the doors open. This is expected to rise to £5.00 million pounds within 5 years. We discussed the future of Hospices and one avenue is the ‘Hospice at Home.’ Giving sufferers the dignity of dying in their own homes. The ethos of Bolton Hospice is that Patients deserve the best of everything. This is certainly true at Bolton which is a now held to be ‘World Standard.’ Visitors from all over the world now use Bolton as the standard which they should aim for.

Sadly more and more money is needed and due to the poor weather at the start of this year there has been  a fall in income. This has been aggravated by the economic climate so the fundraising department are doubling their efforts to raise all the money required for this year which is anticipated to be 10 to 15% down on the year.

Along with the Bolton and Farnworth District Deputy Chairman, Peter Faulkner, I attended Bolton Hospice in order to present Matt Boyle with their share of the Grand Charity donation of £2,725.00. This is only a small amount of what is required, so when lodges are deciding where to send their charity please think about Bolton Hospice because none of us knows when we shall need its services.

Visits to the hospice are welcome by prior arrangement.

A Mason in more ways than one.

Herbert Carlisle Walsh, known to everybody as Bert or Pop, was born on 27th November 1913 which means that this year he celebrated his 96th birthday. He worked in the family business of R Walsh and Son which was founded in Bromley Cross area of Bolton. The company built houses using brick and stone. This made Bert a Stone Mason. The family were also undertakers and made and lettered gravestones making Bert a Monumental Mason.

He joined Deane Lodge in 1961, which made Bert a Freemason. He became a member of Anchor and Hope Lodge No 37 on 24th May 1991 and is now an honorary member of the lodge.

Bert has given a life time to public and charitable service. He was elected a member of the now defunct Turton Urban District Council in 1957 and served as Chairman in 1964. He ended his council service in 1974 following local government re-organisation. He was also elected to Bolton Hospital Management Committee responsible for the hospitals in the locality.

He was also the Chairman of the Governors of a local charity which is very close to the hearts of Bolton and Farnworth Freemasons, Birtenshaw Special School in Bromley Cross, where the physiotherapy pool is named after him. He is still President of Egerton ‘Over 60’s Club’ which he founded with his first wife Nancy during the 1960’s. With the help of Nancy he founded the Turton Cancer Research Committee which after raising many thousands of pounds was incorporated into the Bolton branch during the late 1980’s.

As well as being an expert stonemason, he was also a gifted wood carver being responsible for the carvings used in his own home which he built in 1937. Following the death of Nancy in 1984, he married Florence in 1986. Sadly neither Bert nor Florence is in the best of health with Bert being severely handicapped by blindness whilst Florence is cared for in a nursing home.

Bert never went through the chair and remained a Master Mason throughout his Masonic life. However his legacy to Bolton and District will always be remembered as being the hallmark of all true Masons.

The photographs show Bert surrounded by his family including his new great granddaughter and the Almoner of Anchor and Hope Lodge, W Bro David Hawkins.

Menturia Lodge No 6023 present £600 to the Bolton Hospice

At a recent Old England Night held by Menturia Lodge No 6023, to which ladies and non-masons were present, including Mrs Joyce Longworth the widow of late W Bro Keith Longworth PPrGSwdB a raffle was held which raised £600.00.

The photographs show Mrs Longworth accompanied by the Worshipful Master of the Lodge, Keith Newsome, making the presentation to a representatve of Bolton Hospice.

Another example of Freemasonry caring for the community.

50th Anniversary for WBro Birchby

On 11th November 1959, William (Bill) Birchby was initiated into Antiquity Lodge No 146 and on the corresponding date 50 years later, Bill celebrated his personal anniversary at Bolton Freemasons' Hall. He was attended by members of the lodge, many special personal guests and a District Delegation led by APGM Philip Mountford.

Bill is a very quiet and unassuming freemason who has served his Lodge in particular and Bolton and District Freemasonry well over the years. On the night of the celebration he wanted to play down all the fuss that was being made of him and couldn't understand what made him so special. In his response to the address, given by WBro Mountford during which he corrected what he was saying he was quiet though authoratative and eloquent. The APGM reminded the brethren that 1959 had been the year of the long hot summer which had lasted well into October but by the time of Bill's Initiation in November winter had set in with a vengeance, with snow and ice everywhere, a proper old fashioned winter.

The photographs show WBro Birchby, PProvSGW, receiving an Illuminated Certificate and Letter both signed by Jack Price, The Provincial Grand Master from WBro Philip G Mountford, Assistant Provincial Grand Master accompanied by the Worshipful Master of the Lodge WBro D Bennett and the District Chairman WBro Ian Thornton.

See Royal Arch News - 2009

Unusual Hobby

Many of us have what may appear to others as strange and unusual hobbies. This is probably one of the more unusual. The restoration of classic cars is an acquired taste but WBro Jason Tyler, of Farnworth Lodge No 5301, takes it one step further, namely, the restoration of Ford Anglia 105E's. The old style police 'panda' car. They never looked like this when I drove one. As you can see this has been restored to beyond factory condition and is not the only one that our devotee of 105E's has under restoration.  So if you ever want to contact him look under the nearest Anglia because Jason will no doubt be eyeing it up.'

Closure of Golden Jubilee Lodge No 8816

On Friday 16th October Golden Jubilee Lodge No 8816 put away its jewels and locked up its secrets for the last time. However do not be dismayed because like the Phoenix of old it will rise from the ashes on 12th February 2010 to become constituent part of New Trinity 4595 Lodge.

The photographs show APGM Phillip Mountford with the members of the lodge at the closing. WBro Mountford will be present at the amalgamation meeting. Watch this space for further reports.

“Bolton & Bury Masons Unite”

On Tuesday 13th October at a lavish champagne reception at the Palace Hotel in Manchester were held the North West National Training Awards 2009. The awards were co presented by Ranvir Singh from BBC North West Tonight. The aim of the awards is to celebrate the most inspiring examples of what training and development in the North West.

The Bolton and Lads Club Mentoring Scheme were entrants in the competition. WBro Terry Kakoullis, Bolton District Charity Steward and WBro Paul Sellers, Bury District Secretary were asked along with other Mentors of the Club to accompany the Chairman, Vicky Corlett, Head of Training and Karen Hall Deputy Chief Executive of the Club.

Not only did the Mentoring Project win the heat in their class but won the North West Award which puts them forward to the National Awards in London on the 10th December with a very strong chance of winning another prestigious award.

The club desperately needs men and women volunteer mentors to help change young peoples lives for the better. If you need any information please contact Terry or Paul.

Pictured from left to right Karen Hall, Terry Kakoullis, Vicky Corlett, Paul Sellers

Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia assisted by Bolton District

Spain is probably the fastest growing area of Masonry in Europe at this time and new Lodges are being consecrated all over Spain but particularly in the Costa Blanca where there is a very high percentage of British Ex Pats.  The largest majority of Lodges meet under the English Constitution although it must be said that there are a few Scottish, Irish and German Lodges as well.

To this end; WBro Alan Moss JP PProvSGD a PM of Georgian Lodge No. 4595, who re-distributes used Masonic regalia for the benefit of the brethren in the Bolton & Farnworth area, was contacted by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia to see if he could assist with any second-hand Lodge Furnishing and Regalia.

This resulted in the donation of two Swords, a Poniard and a set of Working Tools from Waterfall Lodge No. 8716; also a full set of Officers Collars and Jewels, a Ballot Box and Tokens and a Third Degree Shroud being donated from the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Lancashire to the newly formed Dama de Elche Lodge No. 163.

Pictured here is WBro Moss presenting the Collars to the WBro Alan Day PProvAGDC, Province of Valencia, Worshipful Master of Dama de Elche Lodge, at the meeting on Tuesday 29th September 2009.  Also pictured are WBro Rick Shiel PProvAGDC East Lancs and Tyler of Dama de Elche Lodge.

WBro Moss has been requested to send warm Fraternal Greetings and profound thanks from the WM and Brethren of Dama de Elche Lodge No163 to all those brethren who contributed in any way but particularly WBro Derek Lee and WBro Brian Robinson.

Click here to see the letter of thanks.

Knees up and Nosh

Early in the summer, the residents of Hewlett Court were treated right royally to a ‘reet good do’ by the Bolton District Committee.

This has become an Annual Event with members of the Bolton and District Committee arranging an excellent meal (The Nosh) provided by the catering team at Bolton Masonic Hall under the ever watchful eye of Christine and Bob Taylor.

There were 34 residents at the home present, along with 4 members of‘t committee accompanied by their wives.

Following the Nosh their came the entertainment (Knees Up) provided by the “DODGERS”. A little bird tells me that they have been renamed so as not to offend those of a more gentle disposition.

This was a splendid afternoon and early evening for all who attended and only came to an end when the committee members were told by their better halves that it was time for their Horlicks. So they left the unflagging residents of Hewlett Court to talk and reflect on the very enjoyable day they had once again had had looking after the Bolton District Committee and hoping that they will enjoy next year equally as much.

A letter of thanks has been received by W Bro Peter Faulkner, the District Deputy Chairman from W Bro John D Crook thanking all concerned for their efforts.

WBro Fred T Thornton PProvGSuptWks – Masonic Diamond Jubilee 
Sixty years plus one

WBro Fred T Thornton, PProvGSuptWks should have celebrated his sixty years in Freemasonry last year in September 2008. A party from Province, Bolton District and Bolton Lodge 6603 was to have visited York but the event had to be postponed.

Fred is a member of Bolton Lodge 6603 and under normal circumstances would celebrate his Diamond Jubilee at the Lodge meeting immediately following the actual date of the anniversary, 21st September 2008. However, for the last five years Fred has been a resident at Connaught Court, the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institute home in York. Now in his ninety-fifth year he is in general good spirits but rather frail and a little forgetful.   

Fred and his wife Olive moved to Connaught Court in September 2004. The RMBI home in York was chosen because it was the only suitable residence that could cater for Olive’s dementia and Fred’s condition and where they could be together. The facilities, love and care provided are second to none. Sadly, in February 2007 Olive died and it would be an understatement to say that after sixty seven years of marriage Fred misses her enormously.

Clearly he was unable to travel to attend a meeting of Bolton Lodge, so instead on this occasion the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro Philip G Mountford, accompanied by the Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principles, EComp Trevor Thomas, District Officers and members of Bolton Lodge, made a presentation at Connaught Court in York on Tuesday, 7th July. Fred is the father of Ian Thornton, Bolton District Chairman, who was accompanied by: Peter Faulkner, Deputy Chairman; Terry Kakoullis, WM of Bolton Lodge and District Charity Steward; Dennis Brierley, IPM; John Schofield, DC; Bob Maughan and Ken Robinson, both senior members of Bolton Lodge.

The whole occasion was relaxed yet impressive and, very appropriately, wives and partners accompanied the Masonic party.

Upon arriving the visitors were given coffee and time to recover from the journey from Lancashire (passports and visas checked successfully). At 11.30am everyone met in the main lounge for a sherry reception, to which residents of the Home were also invited, during which the presentation was made. About forty residents were able to join in and help celebrate with Fred.

WBro Mountford spoke kindly of the long history of Masonic activities that Fred had experienced. He then presented Fred with a framed provincial certificate celebrating his sixty years in Freemasonry. Although he did not formally reply, Fred obviously enjoyed the occasion and was impressed and delighted with the APGM chain of office that Phil Mountford wore.   The photographs show the travelling delegation and presentation party along with a memorable one for Ian Thornton with his father.

Following the presentation the visitors from Lancashire then moved into the Library for a splendid buffet lunch, whilst the residents had their lunch in the dining room. The facilities at Connaught Court are excellent and a credit to RMBI.

Again Fred was the principle guest and had a thoroughly good time, maybe the glasses of sherry and wine helped a little.

BOLTON NEWS ARTICLE

Giving Evening 2009
The Bolton News - £28,000 handed to 43 charities
2:30pm Monday 4th May 2009

FREEMASONS are continuing to raise their public profile after handing out more than £28,000 to 43 charities and good causes. The money was raised throughout the last year by the 22 Bolton and Farnworth lodges which make up the Freemasons of Bolton. Representatives from the recipients attended the organisation’s third annual “giving evening” held at the Masonic Hall in Silverwell Street, Bolton.

Among those to benefit from the generosity of the Freemasons were Bolton Hospice, which received in excess of £2,000, and Astley Bridge Junior Football Club which netted more than £1,000.

A cheque was also handed over to the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Anthony Connell, for his chosen charity.

All the worthy causes shared a total of £28,334.

The full article can be viewed here

Bolton and Farnworth Freemasons’ Giving Evening, Tuesday 28th April 2009

£28,334, the magnificent sum distributed to 43 local charities by Bolton and Farnworth Freemasons’ at their Giving Evening on Tuesday 28th April 2009.

The sums involved varied upwards from £100 to £2,221 and gifts already donated from the Community Fund were also included.

The evening was opened by the Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Anthony Connell, who was amazed at the number of people he had seen in the audience. People he had known for many years and was unaware of their connection with Freemasonry. The Mayor’s Charities for the year were also recipients from the presentations. At the conclusion of the evening the Mayoress, Mrs Connell, received a bouquet and in her response she also spoke of the number of people she had recognised and thanked everyone for their efforts in raising the sums involved.

This was the 3rd Annual Giving Evening and has become more and more significant in this time. The Giving Evening has thankfully done away with that totally anonymous letter sent by a Lodge Charity Steward or Secretary to an equally anonymous address registered to a Charity. Now we see who is giving the cheque and which lodge they are representing but more importantly who the recipient is and what the donation will be used for. This has added a much needed personal touch to charitable giving.

It has helped to raise the public profile of local freemasonry with regard to charitable giving which had previously been shrouded in mystery.  It has also given us access to the local press who now take an interest in the good works that we do not just those where ‘bad news’ is involved. This year a brief report appeared in the Bolton News prior to the event so that the public were aware and on the evening a Press Photographer attended and took photographs for future publication.

The photographs show the Mayor of Bolton Councillor Connell receiving his certificate for the donations to the Mayor’s Charities from The Bolton District Acting Chairman Peter Faulkner and The Assistant Provincial Grand Master Philip Mountford addressing the audience at the conclusion of the evening.

Mentors presentation for Bolton Lads and Girls Club

Have you ever suffered physical and mental abuse?
Do you know how to use a knife and fork?
Do you have behavioral problems at home and school?
Are you a teenager who is so introverted and shy that you do not speak?
You have serious personal problems; you are upset and angry with your family.
You have no self worth or esteem.
Do you know anybody who is like this?
Can you imagine the kind of world that somebody who has any of these problems lives in?

If so there are teams of mentors at Bolton Lads and Girls Club who are prepared to try and help the youngsters overcome all these problems. The system is funded by donations from ‘Comic Relief’’, ‘Children in Need’, ‘The National Lottery’, Bolton Council and The Cabinet Office as well as the East Lancashire Masonic Community Fund.

Bolton Lads and Girls Club have operated a mentoring scheme for the past twelve years and have several teams which are at present trying to help and improve the lifestyles of over 200 teenagers. They have had some amazing results as was seen on Monday 9th March 2009 at the annual awards ceremony held at The Albert Halls in Bolton.

Due to the large number of people gaining awards on the evening there had to be two ceremonies both of which were opened by the Mayor of Bolton. There were over 600 people present at both ceremonies with 357 awards being given to both mentors and mentees. To gain these new found levels of confidence and happiness takes strength and courage.
Some of the mentees have made such progress, out of their insular world that they felt able to stand up on a stage in front of all those present and express, some in an amusing way, there new found confidence using such terms as “The mentor builds up trust” and “Improves your self-worth and esteem”.
One young girl expressed her delight at her improvement and told the audience that she was now on course to go to university where it was her intention to study to be a doctor. Another added, “Now my future is bright”. One thing they all said was how grateful they were to their mentor who helped make these improvements happen.
The popularity of some of those who are mentors was shown by the rousing acclamation they received from the body of the hall when receiving their awards.

Bolton and Farnworth Freemasons have had for the past three years a small number who act as mentors and on this evening they received a special award for the efforts they make on behalf of their mentees.

The photograph shows the mentors, who were able to be present, Geoff Capper, Paul Sellars, Terry Kakoulis, Bob Collins, Kevin Reaney and Clive Hughes along with The RW Prov Grand Master Jack Price, W Bro Philip Mountford, APGM for Central Area No 3 and The Acting Chairman of Bolton District W Bro Peter Faulkner who attended the Presentation Evening on behalf East Lancashire Freemasonry.

If you wish to become a mentor please speak to any of the above who will inform you of the personal rewards that you achieve in the success of one of your mentees.

Never forget: - “That you cannot change the past but you can always change the future” and that “These young people are tomorrow’s citizens”.

WBro Frank Waterworth’s 50th

What makes a good lodge meeting? A full lodge room, a large number at the festive board, happiness and enjoyment in both? Yes; these are key factors but at Smithhills with Rectitude Lodge No 7068 on 4th March 2009 there was an additional ingredient. A brother receiving well deserved praise and adulation.

On 25th February 1959 a young Frank Waterworth was initiated into Rectitude Lodge before 48 members and 8 visitors. At the time the lodge subscription was 6 guineas (£6.30p to those not in the know). Whilst the joining fee was £30 guineas (£31.50pence). Bro Waterworth was not elevated to the chair of King Solomon until 1973 but he used the intervening years wisely and set about learning the ritual. He supported all aspects of work within the lodge and was secretary from 1993 until Rectitude Lodge amalgamated with Smithills Lodge in 2002 and after serving as Secretary of the amalgamated lodge he is now the secretary. Frank played his part in the amalgamation as part of the team making the necessary arrangements. Bro Waterworth became a member of Deane Chapter in 1964 where he worked equally as tirelessly. He is currently the Junior Deacon of Supra Moras Lodge. Due to all his efforts on behalf of Freemasonry Frank has been rewarded with the distinction of holding the highest possible Provincial Ranks both in craft freemasonry and Royal Arch.

Bro Waterworth has not only spent his time solely in masonry but has played an active role in the local community, serving as one of Her Majesty's Justices of the Peace and a local town councillor.

On the very special evening WBro Roy Woodcock paid tribute to WBro Wallwork's dedication by giving a brief outline of his life before presenting him with an engraved cut glass bowl from the lodge. To further mark the event WBro Philip Mountford, Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Central Area no 3, led a District Delegation. WBro Mountford presented WBro Waterworth with an illuminated certificate on behalf of The RW Prov Grand Master, Bro Jack Price.

   
Photographs show W Bro Frank Waterworth receiving his illuminated certificate from W Bro Philip Mountford accompanied by W Bro Roy Woodcock and the Worshipful Master of the Lodge Bro Ian McDonald and the presentation by W Bro Woodcock of the inscribed cut glass bowl.

WBro Mountford also paid his own tribute and reminded the brethren that in 1959 1doz eggs cost 3s8d (19pence) whilst a bottle of whisky was 37s6d (£1.87 1/2p). For those who transgressed the speed limits and happened to be caught on radar, Bolton Magistrates were doling out fines of £2.00 for the unlucky miscreants.

The evening of joy and happiness was enjoyed by over 70 members and visitors an increase on the number who were there to share Frank's joy on the night of his initiation. This was not only a night to remember for the principal guest but for all those who had the privilege to attend.

Diamond Jubilee - WBro E Raymond Duckworth

1948 was an excellent year especially for the quality of men joining Freemasonry. This was highlighted at Bolton School on Friday 27th February 2009 when yet another East Lancashire Mason celebrated his Masonic Diamond Jubilee in which fell in 2008. E Raymond Duckworth PProvJGW was initiated into Rectitude Lodge on 22nd December 1948 by his father E E Duckworth. Even though he was born in 1925 due to Military service between 1943 and 1948 he was unable to follow his father into Rectitude Lodge No 5197until then.

On 29th October 2004 WBro Duckworth became a joining member of Old Boltonians Lodge No 5814 which meets at Bolton School. The secretary of this lodge read an extract from the minutes of the meeting for Bro Duckworth's initiation. There were 49 members and 32 visitors present for the occasion but on the summons for the evening 16 stewards were listed.

As well as being a dedicated Craft Mason, Bro Duckworth has been an equally dedicated member of Mark Masonry and using his skills as a Chartered Quantity Surveyor he over saw the developments of Canon's Close in Bolton. Another organisation very close to Bro Duckworth's heart is 'Bolton Hospice' where once again used his expertise within his chosen profession.

Very few men, never mind masons have given as much to society as E Raymond Duckworth but we shall remember him as a dedicated Freemason.

To mark his amazing achievement, at the meeting of his adopted lodge, on 27th February 2009, The Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Central Area No 3, WBro Phillip G Mountford PSGD, himself a member of Old Boltonians Lodge, accompanied by a District Delegation presented WBro Duckworth with an Illuminated scroll on behalf of The RW Provincial Grand Master, WBro Jack Price. This was a memorable meeting held in the delightful surroundings of Bolton School Library with the leisurely Festive Board being held in the recently converted Art Centre.

In the photograph we see WBro Duckworth receiving his illuminated scroll from WBro Mountford, watched over by the Worshipful Master Of Old Boltonians Lodge, WBro David N Entwistle PProvDepGSwdB.

Bolton blood donor Philip reaches 75 pints
12:30pm Wednesday 18th February 2009
By Cherry Thomas - The Bolton News Reporter

If you are squemish then don't look at this.
Phil Collier the newly appointed Bolton and Farnworth District Secretary has achieved an amazing land mark by donating, all for nothing except a cup of tea and a biscuit, his 75th pint of blood. To mark the occasion he was given a special award and the attached photograph and article appeared in the Bolton News.
Congratulations on such a sterling effort. You deserve all the tea and biscuits you can consume.

The following article is reproduced with the kind permission of The Bolton News

DEDICATED Philip Collier has been donating blood for nearly 30 years. And the 50-year-old has been honoured for reaching the milestone of 75 donations with a crystal plate. The presentation was made at a donor session at the Walker Memorial Hall in Ridgway Gate, Bolton town centre.

The civil engineer, from Smithills, said: “I’m really pleased to be receiving the award. It’s a milestone and I now hope to get to 100 donations.”

Mr Collier first donated blood on July 4, 1979, after being inspired by his father, Arnold Collier, aged 82, from Chorley. He said: “My dad had given blood for years, so I thought I’d do it too. “It was slow going at first, but then I got into the habit of going every three months and I started giving myself targets.”

He added: “If it can help other people, it’s a great thing to do and I feel I am doing my bit. One day I might need some blood and I’d expect it to be there if I needed it. I’d tell people to give it a try, you might feel anxious about it but it’s easy and quick so give it a go.”

Valerie Essien, of the NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “What Philip has achieved is amazing. It shows his dedication to supporting the service and, hopefully, will motivate other donors.”

60 Years in Freemasonry for WBro Reg O'Rourke

WBro Reg O'Rourke of St George's Lodge at Bolton, whilst not unique in Freemasonry, has joined the special group of brethren who have attained the remarkable feat of 60 years in Freemasonry.

Reg was initiated into St George's Lodge on 23rd December 1948 and at the Lodge Meeting on 28th January 2009 he was honoured by the presence of the Deputy Provincial Grand Master VWBro Dr Nigel G Bramley-Howarth and The Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Bolton and Bury District WBro Philip Mountford accompanied by a Provincial Delegation.

He was presented with an illuminated scroll by V W Bro Bramley- Howarth to mark this momentous achievement.

60 Years in Freemasonry for WBro Kenneth Tyler

The 15th December 1948 will long be remembered in the annals of Farnworth Freemasonry as the date a young Kenneth Tyler was initiated into Farnworth Lodge, No. 5301. On the 17th December, 2008, at the regular Lodge meeting, Ken celebrated his personal 60th Anniversary.

A Provincial Delegation attended the evening's festivities, led by the RW Provincial Grand Master, Bro Jack Price, accompanied by The VW Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Bro Dr Nigel Graham Bramley Howarth, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Central Area No. 3, WBro Philip Mountford, the Provincial Grand Secretary, WBro H Alan J Garnett and the Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals, EComp Trevor Thomas.

The Provincial Grand Master presented WBro Tyler, who has filled most Lodge and District Offices and was one of leading lights in the purchase and development of Farnworth Masonic Hall, with a scroll to commemorate his remarkable achievement.

Centenary Celebration – Supera Moras Lodge No. 3326 on the 30 Sep 2008

The Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Jack Price, accompanied by a Deputation from Provincial Grand Lodge, was in attendance to celebrate 100 years of continued existence of Supera Moras Lodge, No. 3326.

In 1908, as now, Freemasonry was an integral part of the community in Bolton . Bolton was a prosperous, bustling town, bursting with civic pride and there was a close relationship between the administrative centres and the Bolton Lodges. Within 5 years of its Consecration, Supera Moras's membership included the Heads of the Bolton Corporation Departments (the Lodge Crest is the same as the Bolton Town Crest and Coat of Arms), the Heads and Chief Clerks to several Urban District Councils and the Vicar of Bolton (Rev. Canon Chapman, MA., BD., who later became Bishop of Colchester and Past Grand Chaplain of England). Other early members included the Headmaster of Bolton School, several other Heads and Teachers and the Medical Officer of Health for the Town.

These were the days when a pair of steel spectacles cost 3 shillings, fine wool gentleman's suits were available in Market Street for 31 shillings and sixpence and Windermere Eels were 8p per lb. The Edwardian years had just begun and many changes were in progress – it was only 3 days before the consecration that Henry Ford produced his first Model T Automobile!

100 years later, WBro. Ian Ronson, the current Lodge Secretary, gave to the assembled brethren an excellent summary of the Lodge History. Previous to this, WBro Rev Jack Thompson delivered an inspiring Oration which, focussing on the Consecration Anthem, highlighted our belief in God, His presence and recognized our dependence on God. He acknowledged the tremendous service to freemasonry and the community which the founders of this Lodge began and remembered with gratitude the devoted service given by those who followed and asked all to courageously embrace the challenges of the present.

There was a surprise for WBro John F Hood, the Charity Steward, ADC and Tyler of the Lodge, when he was brought before the Provincial Grand Master and appointed to the rank of Past Provincial Senior Grand Deacon of the Province of East Lancashire, for his contribution in Supera Moras and other Lodges. He proudly paraded round the Lodge to the acclaim of the brethren.

During the ceremony and at the festive board, RWBro Price reminisced on the wonderful times he had shared with the brethren of Bolton and spoke warmly of the historic background and pedigree of Supera Moras Lodge and of the contribution its brethren had made to the great town of Bolton and our country.

The PGM, concluding his response at the Festive Board, gave us a glimpse of the tenderness driving his leadership, when he spoke of the laughter and comradeship that we enjoy as freemasons and the singular outlook that we share and cherish with each other. “We are all part of the masonic ‘family' where everyone has a part to play in our successes, all are valued, no one is ever too old and together we will preserve this great order for our posterity”.

The Provincial Grand Master RtWBro Jack Price pictured with the Worshipful Master WBro A S Edge		The Provincial Grand Master RtWBro Jack Price pictured with the longest serving member of the Lodge WBro Leonard Hall

Giving Evening 2008 - Tuesday 29th April 2008

Mentors visit to Downing Street to meet the PM.

Geoff Capper is a Past Master of Darley Lodge No 6531 who meet at Farnworth. He is one of a number of masonic mentors for Bolton Lads and Girls Club and along with other such mentors from across the UK he recently visited No 10, Downing Street, where he met The Prime Minister.

Marie Curie Cancer Care has established a Field of Hope at the Britannia Hotel on Beaumont Road, Bolton with the help of the East Lancashire Masonic Charity Community Fund.

Fields of Hope are created all over the country as a living memorial to lost loved ones. Daffodil bulbs are planted and members of the public sponsor the bulbs in memory of a loved one, which raises vital funds for Marie Curie nurses to provide high quality free nursing to terminally ill people, giving them the choice of spending their last days at home surrounded by family and friends. £20 pays for an hour’s nursing.

The Bolton Support group of Marie Curie Cancer Care, formed in 2006, wished to create a Bolton Field of Hope and approached the Britannia Hotel, Beaumont Road, who, last autumn, gave permission to plant bulbs on their banking.

Bolton Council Environmental Department, which looks after green spaces, agreed to plant bulbs by machine, but this involved a cost and the support group needed to raise over £1000 to plant a decent display. Through the work of the Bolton District Charity Steward, Terry Kakoullis, an award of £1000 was made by the East Lancahsire Masonic Charity Commuity Fund which enabled 10,000 daffodil bulbs to be planted. A further 5,000 bulbs were donated by a grower in Scotland which were planted by hand by the Bolton Support group on the sloping bank where the machine could not operate.

A Book of Hope was then opened and bulb sponsors invited to have a dedicated message entered. The support from the East Lancashire Masonic Charity was acknowledged in the opening pages of the book which was on display in the Britannia Hotel whilst the flowers were in Bloom this spring.

The Field of Hope provided a wonderful display of daffodils on the Bolton ring-road in March for all who passed by and established a lasting and growing memorial to comfort the bereaved. So far it has raised £4,000 for local Marie Curie nursing services with the opportunity for further income as more bulbs are sponsored. Each year the bulbs will multiply, creating and even better display, made even more special and poignant in the knowledge that the flowers represent loved ones.

A further donation of £500 was made by the members of Turton Chapter towards funding Marie Curie nurses which was presented to the support group at the recent Bolton and Farnworth Freemasons Giving Evening.  

New Red Cross Centre Opened In Bolton

A new Red Cross Centre has been opened in Bolton. The opening Ceremony was held on Friday 7th March and attended by the Mayor of Bolton and the Mayors of adjacent districts.

The centre was funded by part of the Red Cross £2.3 million  North West Emergency Response Appeal which has received support from The Grand Charity.

Freemasonry was represented by Philip Mountford, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Bolton and Bury, the Bolton District Chairman Ian Thornton, Peter Balckhurst, the Bolton District Secretary and Peter Manning the District Communications Officer.

The Assistant Provincial Grand Master Philip Mountford was delighted to welcome WBro Peter Evans, the Mayor of Rochdale on his journey across the border to celebrate this special occasion.

The new centre will act as an emergency control centre in the event of a major incident in the region and will also serve the local community on a daily basis, providing medical loan equipment, a skin camouflage unit, refugee services and first aid training amongst other services.

The occasion provided an opportunity to view the new fully equipped emergency ambulance which was on display at the centre. This was paid for by Freemasons through a £55,000 donation from The Grand Charity.

Bolton District launch its Teddies for Loving Care Appeal

The Bolton District has launched its Teddies for Loving Care appeal at the Royal Bolton Hospital 's Children's Accident and Emergency Unit. This unit has been specially developed to provide a friendly and child orientated environment for children visiting the unit. There are no adults other than hospital staff and the parents or guardians of those children attending the unit. This is in contrast to the often noisy and occasionally violent environment which now seems to be prevalent in many hospital accident and emergency units especially during the late evening and overnight.

For children visiting the unit it is often a traumatic experience, not only may they be suffering from a distressing condition or accident, but they are entering a unfamiliar and alien environment and being subject to examination by strangers albeit highly qualified staff.

In this environment all they want is to be comforted and to feel better. This appeal has a simple objective; for Freemasons to provide Teddy Bears for children visiting the A & E Department. These Teddies are for the nursing/medical staff to give, at their discretion, to children who may be distressed and where the giving of a teddy may help alleviate that distress. The staff may also give teddies to assist them in their work.

It has been found that where children who have been given a teddy on their first visit often bring it back to hospital on subsequent visits. They also sometimes ask for the teddy to be given the same treatment as themselves with bandages or plasters applied as appropriate.

The scheme is funded by Freemasons and their family and friends who buy a ‘Teddies' lapel badge for a minimum £2 donation which pays for two Teddies to be given to children. Peter Jones (Email: peter@pjfiresafety.com) and Jason Tyler (Email: toptory@yahoo.co.uk) are looking after this appeal on a day to day basis and may be contacted for further information or a supply of badges.

The photograph shows Philip Mountford, Assistant Provincial Grand Master for Bolton and Bury (back row second from left) Ian Thornton, Bolton District Chairman (back row third from right), members of Bolton District and staff form the Childrens Accident and Emergency unit at the Royal Bolton Hospital .

Bolton Children's Opportunity Group receive help with refurbishment

The Bolton Children's Opportunity Group (COG) has received a donation of £1,000 from the ELMC community fund to help pay for the refurbishment of their parents room. The Bolton Children's Opportunity Group is a local registered charity which was established to provide a stepping stone between home, playgroup and/or nursery, for under fives with disabilities or special educational needs. COG gives parents the chance to meet others with similar problems, so they can be of mutual help.

COG has a mini-bus providing a door to door service to families who would otherwise be unable to attend the group. COG has input from Speech and Physiotherapists, Health Visitors, Social Workers and Educational Psychologists. The group achieve their objectives through play sessions for children between 2½- 5 years with activities geared towards achievement of early learning goals. Children with special needs have individual programmes designed to encourage development of social cognitive, motor, language and self help skills.

Tweenies & Baby Sessions are for children aged between 6 weeks and 2½years. They provide babies with an introduction to early physical and sensory stimulation. Older children are introduced to a more structured routine in the play sessions.

The blue room is a small nursery unit for 4 children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders. The children work to a structured programme of activities using pictorial timetables. The Multi-Sensory Environment provide children with profound or multiple disabilities who have limited movement to have some control over their environment. Rewards of positive interaction can be enjoyed by use of remote control switches to control aroma-therapy experiences, music and gentle vibration.

These are the main activities of this group but they do offer other services. It is very reassuring to see organisations such as this supporting those in our community whose children have special educational requirements and where local authorities struggle to provide all the services that these children require.

Grand Lodge donation to Bolton Hospice

On 11th January 2008 the Bolton District Chairman Ian Thornton accompanied by the Deputy Peter Faulkner attended the Bolton Hospice to present a donation from Grand Lodge. Afterwards they were given a conducted tour of the unit and its impressive facilities. Although the grant is not being allocated to any specific need at the Hospice one of the many services provided by the unit is complementary therapy. These holistic treatments include aromatherapy which involves massaging with natural essential oils. These can have help relieve stress promote relaxation and ease insomnia. In essence they help to enhance body mind and spirit.

Reflexology is based on the principle of balancing the body's energies through reflexes in the feet. Again this form of massage helps to reduce stress levels, induces relaxation and promotes a sense of well-being. Reiki involves the transfer of natural energy through one person to another. This involves the therapist placing hands gently over the body. It is harmless, does not require faith or belief and recipients can remain dressed.

Indian Head Massage is a massaging technique involving the head, neck, shoulders, face and scalp. It relieves stresses and strains and often gives a psychological uplift. The complementary therapies provided by the Hospice also provide the opportunity to express emotion and talk about difficulties the patients may be experiencing.

The picture shows Mrs Coleen Kyne, fund raising administrator for the Hospice receiving the cheque from Peter Faulkner and Ian Thornton. In the foreground are Helen Murphy and Lisa Lube two of the complementary therapists.

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Peter Manning Bolton District Communications Officer
Tel: 01204 849706
E.mail: co.bolton@elmasons.org.uk