Latest News from East Ribble District

Wednesday 21st December 2011 was the 90th Anniversary of the consecration of Billinge Lodge No 4296, it was also the last meeting of the Lodge. There were over 50 brethren present to witness the sombre meeting, including WBro Martin Roche, PSGD, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master and a District Delegation.

The lodge being opened the WM, Bro Chrostopher Coster offered WBro Roche, APGM the gavel of the Lodge, which WBro Roche declined by saying that the WM should enjoy every minute he had left in the chair of the lodge. After a short meeting to finalise the business of the lodge, where £250 was donated to the 2015 festival in memory of our late RW Provincial Grand Master Bro Jack Price, a brief history of the lodge was delivered by WBro Ashley Hughes.

Then in a very emotional and dignified manner the Worshipful Master finally presented WBro Roche with the Warrant of the Lodge, charging him to deliver it up to the Grand Secretary. The lodge was then closed for the final time in a solemn manner with decorum and dignity.

At the festive board WBro Roche, APGM, in response to the toast to his health, charged the members of Billinge Lodge to look to the future, saying that they had exepriences to give to the brethren of the lodges that they would become joining members of and to share those experiences with those brethren. He also said that those lodges would very quickly find out the excellent quality of the members that they had gained in the closure of Billinge Lodge.

On the 13th of October 2011 at the Masonic rooms Clitheroe, Limestone Rock Lodge No369 celebrated a Double celebration of 50 years membership of Freemasonry and the Lodge, of WBro Leslie Dixon Telford PProvSGW and WBro Leslie Coolican PProvAGDC.

WBro Derek Nelson Thornhill JP PSGD APGM accompanied by WBro Harry Hesmondhalgh PAPGM and colleagues of United Grand Lodge along with a District Deputation from the Accrington District accompanied by WBro Paul Aspinall PAGDC and officers from the Blackburn District attended the meeting.

The APGM was welcomed into the Lodge by the Worshipful Master Ian Johnson who offered him the gavel which he accepted; WBro Thornhill then introduced the delegation to the Brethren.

The Worshipful Master, WBro Ian Johnson, informed WBro Thornhill that WBro Coolican was unable to attend due to illness, WBro Thonhill asked the WM to present the Illuminated certificate and the letter from the RWPGM Jack Price on a future occasion.

WBro David Bristol ProvDepGDC placed W Bro Telford in the centre of the Lodge. W Bro Thornhill congratulated him on achieving 50 years in Freemasonry and presented him with an illuminated certificate and a letter from the RW PGM Jack Price which was received with great pride. A resume of WBro Telfords’ life and career was given by WBro Heywood.

The presentation was memorable and a personal event for WBro Telfords’ grandson Bro Paul Seargeant had travelled from Wellingborough Northamptonshire to witness his grandfathers’ presentation. The WM then made a presentation to WBro Telford on behalf of the members of the Lodge.

The Lodge was then closed in due form and the Brethren retired to enjoy the festive board at the Swan & Royal Hotel. During the Festive board WBro Brian Bristol PAGSuptWKs presented WBro Telford with a gift in recognition of his 40 years service to the joint Lodge committees in Clitheroe by the members present.

On the 9th November two brethren from Limestone Rock Lodge, the Worshipful Master, WBro Ian Johnson, accompanied by the Lodge DC, WBro Edward Smillie PProvDepGReg, made the trip up to Dalbeatie, Scotland to WBro Coolican's home where they were warmly welcomed by WBro Coolican and his wife Alison. They presented him with the illuminated certificate and engraved bowl as directed by WBro Thornhill.

In return WBro Coolican presented the Lodge with a hand painted table seating plan from the lodges 150th anniversary banquet. WBro Coolican was the W.M.at that meeting. Limestone Rock Lodge plans to frame it and display it in the lodge rooms.

As it turned out the WM, WBro Ian Johnson had met Alison Coolican many years before as she had taught him Maths in his first year at Secondary School!

Once again the ELMC sponsored annual Pantomime took place at The Thwaites Theatre, Blackburn. The Panto this year was Sinbad and the East Ribble District were treated to a sponsor’s performance which was attended by over 300 guests. We were especially pleased to see Dorothy Price in attendance as well as WBro Paul Aspinall and WBro David Lightbown, the East Ribble District Chairman and Deputy respectively.

The cast of the Pantomime included Anthony Batey of Pop Idol fame, Callum Arnott who has appeared in numerous TV and stage productions and Victoria Bell who has also appeared in many TV and stage shows. The show would not be complete without the willing support of three of the local junior dance schools.

Of Course for the fourth year running star billing must go to the two usual suspects WBro Derek Thornhill and VWBro Nigel Bramley-Haworth, who gave a splendid performance on stage to draw the raffle (The show would not be the same without them!).

The theatre was once again filled with People from various Charitable organisations including the ELMC and Hewlett Court, Young Carers, Macmillan Nurses and many more.

Many thanks must go to the theatre staff for their help on the night to make it such a success.

St Peter's Community Centre Donation

Following an Application to the former Accrington District Charity Stewards Committee, (now East Ribble) by Charity Steward Bro Edwin Leech of Prosperity Lodge No.5206, the committee gave a donation of £250 to St Peters Community Centre in Haslingden to assist them in funding essential building repairs.

St Peter’s Church Community Centre offers facilities for the local and wider community to meet, take part in activities, develop new skills and make new friendships. The Centre is used by many groups including a mother and toddler group, youth groups, children’s dance class, flower arranging group, badminton group, yoga group, Mothers Union, Helmshore Christian Fellowship and Uniformed organisations. It is very much a community facility, used by up to 400 people a week. A ten-year project is currently underway to refurbish the building, which had been under immediate threat of closure because of dangerous windows and poor heating. So far the heating has been replaced, and new, high-quality PVC windows have just been installed throughout.

Bro Edwin Leech (Badminton Racket, questionable shorts) presents the Cheque to Rev'd Stephen Brown

East Ribble Freemasons Marshalling at the East Lancs Hospice Santa Dash in Clitheroe.

Sixteen Brethren from the East Ribble District gave up their Friday evenings to assist East Lancashire Hospice in the inaugural Santa Dash Event in Clitheroe. Approximately 300 Adult Santa's and Children in Reindeer Ears, completed a sponsored dash through the centre of Clitheroe to raise funds for the Hospice, and be part of the Clitheroe St Nicks night, officially opening Christmas Shopping for the town.
Our Masonic volunteers managed the car park at Ribblesdale school, organised the Stewarding positions, set up the marquee for the winners medals and certificates at the finish line and marshalled at key points on the race route along with the Police, to ensure the roads were clear for the Santa's.
Afterwards, a number of Brethren went for a most enjoyable post Dash meal at La Vespa in Clitheroe, organised by WBro David Bristol PProvJGW of Keep Lodge No.6538, Clitheroe.

The Brethren who took part were:- WBro Roger Flitcroft, WBro Ian Johnson, WBro Bryan Bristol, WBro Eric Bullock, WBro David Lightbown, WBro Allan Low, WBro Brian Williams, WBro David Bristol, Bro Frank Leach, Bro Mark Roocroft, Bro Allan Shields, Bro Nick Bellas, WBro David Bedford, Bro Edwin Leech & Bro Brian Derbyshire.
Denise Gee, Hospice Fundraising Manager has expressed her sincere thanks for our assistance once again, in making this event a success for the Hospice.

On Remembrance Sunday this year, a member of the East Ribble District laid a Wreath at the Cenotaph in London on behalf of the former Accrington District.
Bro Warren Wolstencroft, Junior Deacon of King Oswald Lodge No.3306 in Oswaldtwistle, made the application to purchase a wreath to his Lodge and the Charity Stewards, both of whom were more than happy to support the proposal. Bro Wolstencroft marched with his fellow veterans past the Cenotaph and laid the Wreath on our behalf on Sunday the 13th of November.

An application was also made to the Charity Stewards to give financial assistance to BLESMA, The British Limbless Ex Servicemen's Association, of which Bro Wolstencroft has received direct assistance from, following his career in the Armed Forces. The Charity Stewards committee unanimously agreed to donate £250.00 to the Charity, which offers essential support across the North West to limbless veterans and their families when they need it most. More details on BLESMA are available here www.blesma.org.
Bro Wolstencroft presented the cheque on behalf of the District to the Charity.

Bro Wolstencroft Presents the Cheque for £250 to Blesma. Bro Wolstencroft marches past the Cenotaph and passes our Wreath.

When the Freemasons of the former Accrington District, which includes Lodges based in Clitheroe, heard that St Nicholas Church in Sabden was in dire need of financial assistance with essential repair work to the church building, their Charity Stewards’ Committee quickly approved a donation of £200 towards the fund set up by the Parochial Church Council. Although initially encouraged by a Masonic principle to support the community in which they live, they have since been surprised to learn that they have an earlier connection with the village church. It seems that when the original building was erected around 165 years ago, it was with money donated largely by the Starkie family of Huntroyde which had later Masonic connections through Colonel Le Gendre Nicholas Starkie, who was the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master of East Lancashire from 1870 to 1899. The Church Cemetery serves the whole community and is used by all denominations in the Sabden area.

The photograph shows the cheque being passed to the Rev. Gill Dyer by WBro Peter Hargreaves PAGDC, & Past District Chairman of the Accrington District, a resident of Sabden.

Members of Cathedral Lodge, 7814.
seated: WBro Thornhill, JP, PSGD, Deputy Provincial Grand Master in Charge, WBro Metcalf, PProvGSuptWks, WM, WBro Hesmondhalgh, PSGD

There was a surprise in store for the treasurer of Cathedral Lodge, no 7814, at its meeting on Monday evening. The treasurer, WBro Derek Thornhill, JP, PSGD, Deputy Provincial Grand Master in Charge, was attending his first meeting since his appointment at Provincial Grand Lodge the previous Thursday.

After the conclusion of the business of the Lodge, an explanation of the Traditional History, during the third rising, the Worshipful Master WBro Brian Metcalf interrupted the proceedings to present WBro Thornhill with a Lead Crystal paperweight in the shape of the Volume of the Sacred Law, suitably engraved with the lodge crest and words to mark the Lodge’s sincere delight in his preferment.

WBro Metcalf said during the presentation that as Lodge treasurer WBro Thornhill would not be informed of the cost to the lodge of the presentation! WBro Metcalf also said that although the lodge was rightly proud to see one of their members leading the province at the Provincial meeting they were saddened by the circumstances that led to it. The lodge wished WBro Thornhill luck with his new and very demanding position and hoped that his duties would not preclude him attending future meetings of his mother lodge.

With the forthcoming amalgamation of Blackburn and Accrington districts and the promotion of WBro Derek Thornhill to Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Verity Lodge was chosen to host a presentation to WBro Thornhill and the retiring District Officers. So at 10:30am on Saturday 22nd October Verity Lodge was opened in due form by the Worshipful Master, WBro Michael Dodson PProv DepGReg with no less than 7 Grand Lodge Officers in attendance, including WBro Thornhill and WBro Martin Caller, PSGD, APGM.

WBro Caller, PSGD, APGM then presented WBro Thornhill with an engraved decanter to mark his service to Blackburn and Darwen District over the last 17 years. WBro Paul Aspinall, PAGDC, District Chairman then presented WBro Thornhill with a personal present of a bottle of single malt to fill the decanter with. WBro Caller then presented WBro Thornhill with a bouquet of flowers for Mrs Thornhill.

WBro Thornhill then presented engraved decanters to WBro Frank Salt, PProvDepGReg, the retiring District Mentor and WBro John Rimmer, PProvDepGReg, the retiring Charity Steward, whose presentation was collected on his behalf as he was unable to attend. WBro Aspinall then presented both with a personal gift of a bottle of single malt to charge their decanters with.

After the presentations and a ballot for two joining members the next item on the agenda was a reading of masonic poems by WBro Thornhill, which was given in good humour and received in the same manner. After the lodge closed the members and visitors retired to a festive board luncheon of potato pie followed by jam roly-poly.

Verity Lodge is a very friendly lodge that in their own admission "doesn't take itself too seriously" and is there for the members and visitors to enjoy themselves and have a good time, which was certainly the case at this meeting.

W.Bro Harry Hargreaves at the celebrations of his 90th Birthday held at Mill House on Sunday 25th Sept.
Harry is pictured ( front left) about to cut his cake and looking on are brethern of his lodge ( De lacy) and companions of his Chapters
( Sincerity and Whalley Arches with Gratitude). Harry enjoyed a buffet luncheon and a pleasant afternoon among friends and family.
" Happy Birthday Harry"

Darwen 1940's day on Saturday 3rd September was the venue for a cheque presentation to Blackburn District's Charity of the Year, the Soldiers' Support Group from Darwen. The group is led by David Baldwin, an Accrington freemason who has 3 sons all serving in Afghanistan. The group is fundraising on behalf of the ABF - Soldiers Charity.

The highlight of Darwen's annual 1940's day was to be a fly past by the Red Arrows display team but this was cancelled following the sad death of Fl Lt John Egging last month. The wartime themed event was however a great success with plenty of attractions to keep the crowds entertained including a parade, vintage and military vehicles and entertainment provided by 40s singers the Octavius Sisters with swing music from singer Ricky Lee. Popular folk group The Houghton Weavers were also a favourite attraction.

Richard Sutlieff, WM 269, David Lightbown, and John Rimmer present the cheque to the Mayor of Darwen Coun Paul Browne, with David Baldwin and Kingsman James Kenyon watching on.

CLAYTON-Le-MOORS FREEMASON'S HALL

On the 3rd September 2011 when the RWPGM Jack Price and Mrs Dorothy Price took time out of their very busy schedule to attend at Clayton-le-Moors Freemasons Hall to carry out the opening of the newly built extension and lodge room. Also present was WBro Derek Thornhill APGM and his wife Joan and WBro Martin Roach APGM and his wife Janet along with 80 guests.

The RWPGM declared the building opened and entered the Lodge Room accompanied by Mrs Price and guests after which W Bro Derek Thornhill gave a prayer of dedication, RWBro Price then addressed all present and congratulated all those who had participated in such a fine building and for the future of Mill House

After the celebratory dinner W Bro David Anderson the hall Chairman gave a brief history of the building from its former use as Dr Lovelace’s Soap Factory explaining how had grown from an idea that a few brethren of Albert Edward Lodge had in the late 1960,s who purchased the building to what it is today Clayton-le-Moors Freemasons Hall Co Ltd.

He then stated that last year a new state of the art Central Heating System plus a total re wire of the building had to be done, in preparation for the new extension which was to include a new Lodge Room, Tyler and locker room, plus ground floor ladies and gents toilets along with redecoration of the bar and festive board room.

He then moved to this year when the building of the new extension and Lodge room commenced and acknowledged this could not have been done without the aid of the financial donation from Haslingden Masonic Hall Co Ltd. and personal and lodge donations. He also stated that without the expertise, dedication and commitment of his Deputy Chairman Alan Clinton Johnson over the last two years the vision the directors had, would not have come in to fruition. He also singled out the work that WBro’s Ken Dawber, Les Saddington and Robert Allan had done, and then went on to thank his fellow directors and more especially their wives. After which he finished by toasting the health of the RWPGM and Mrs Dorothy Price.

The RWPGM responded by congratulated the directors on their foresight and vision and stated that we must now strive not just in Clayton-le-Moors but throughout the Province to have a view to becoming a stronger organisation. That we should look forward not back and appreciate what we have, that we must work together, and should always be looking to strengthen our Province and this wonderful organisation by always having a hand extended to those lodges and halls that are finding times difficult in surviving, and that in the future unfortunately some Masonic Halls will close, but he felt the outlook for Masonry in Clayton –le –Moors had a good future.

The RWPGM then drew the first raffle ticket and won the first prize!

What do freemasons do during the summer recess? Well I suppose that most of you will spend time in the garden or even have a break away from it all and relax on a well earned holiday. For six masons from Blackburn and Accrington Districts, including yours truly, the summer recess was the time for two weeks away at Annual Camp with the Army Cadet Force.

All six are serving Officers or Senior NCO's with Lancashire Army Cadet Force and every year spend two weeks away from home looking after 400 cadets who go away to an Army Training Camp to undertake military training. This year the venue was Wathgill Camp near Catterick Garrison where a whole range of training opportunities were given to the cadets.

WBro Lieutenant Colonel Alan Jones PProvSGD - Papyrean Lodge - Deputy Commandant (cadet training)

LtoR: CSM Lee Lynch, Major Andy Gray, Major Steve Whittaker, Lt Col Alan Jones, Major Paul Smillie, Capt Danny Cassidy

This year Steve, Danny and Lee as HQ C Company were tasked to run the field training exercises. Andy Gray with S Company was tasked with running the Adventurous Training package consisting of canoeing, rock climbing, mountain biking and archery. Whilst Alan and Paul co-ordinated the camp from headquarters, Alan overseeing the whole training program for the cadets and Paul looking after the discipline and administration for the camp.

Next year we are all off to Otterburn Training Area in the North East for another two weeks of hard work and fun. In the mean time we are hoping to recruit a few more of our colleagues into Freemasonry.

Volunteers from the Accrington District Charity Stewards assisted East Lancashire Hospice with Early morning Marshalling on the Jane Tomlinson Walk for All Event in the Yorkshire Dales. Starting at 7.30 am on Sunday the 19th August 2011, Freemasons from our District gave up their time to assist the Hospice in Settle and the surrounding area.. In return for supplying volunteers, East Lancashire Hospice was given places on the Walking event in aid of their own Charity.
Sharon Crymble, the Hospice Fundraising manager, thanked all of the volunteers for once again, giving up their time and effort on the day.

On Wednesday the 3rd of June 40 members of the Accrington Fellowship sailed on the Llangollen canal they were joined on this occasion by members of the Clitheroe Fellowship, everyone had an enjoyable day.

At a recent small garden party for the local Cancer Research UK group the District Charity Steward, WBro John Rimmer accompanied by WBro Chris Allen, WM of Harmony & Industry Lodge and WBro Dougie Aspen, Charity Steward of Sunnyhurst Lodge attended to present the group with a small donation of £400. Receving the cheque was Lynn Rudge, in blue, along with 2 helpers from the group. Unfortunately at the time of the presentation the heavens opened and the garden party had to withdraw indoors for the presentation.

WBro Bernard Spencer, WM of Perseverance Lodge and WBro John Rimmer, District Charity Steward, recently visited Blackburn Hospital to present a donation to Barbara Dunne the fund manager/coordinator for the British Heart Foundation appeal in Blackburn for a 3D Echo Scanner for the Heart Department. The donation came from Perseverance Lodge and the District Charity Stewards Fund.

Blackburn District Charity Stewards distributed charity funds at two events recently. in the first event a cheque for £300 was presented to the local East Lancashire Hospice on behalf of Old Blackburnian Lodge and the District Charity Stewards Fund. The donation will help the Hospice with their running costs.

WBro John Wishart the Worshipful Master of Old Blackburnians Lodge No. 7933 presents a cheque for £300 to Mrs Sharon Crymble Fundraising Manager for the Hospice
watched by WBro John Rimmer District Charity Steward.

The second event was a presentation of cheques to three local charities at Darwen Masonic Hall. The first presentation was to the Darwen Explorer Scouts who were presented with a cheque for £400 from Harmony and Industry Lodge. The money will go towards supporting the members trip to LaNoChe Scout Camp in Florida USA where some of the members are spending this summer. On their return the scouts plan to visit the Masonic Hall to give a presentation of their american adventure.

WBro Chris Allen, Worshipful Master of Harmony and Industry Lodge presents a cheque for £400 to Darwen Scouts

The second presentation on the evening was to The Meningitis Research Foundation. WBro Paul Smillie of Horizon Lodge presented a cheque for £200 to Mr Ian Pickup of the charity. Mr Pickup got involved with the charity 10 years ago after his then 27 year old son came home one evening from his dentistry practice feeling very unwell. Within hours he was in a high dependancy hospital ward with meningitis and not expected to survive, fortunately he did and ever since Mr Pickup has supported the charity. WBro Smillie was delighted to present the cheque to the charity as his wife, Joanne, caught meningitis as a baby leaving her profoundly deaf.

The final presentation of the evening was a cheque for £450 to the North West Air Ambulance. The money was donated from Sunnyhurst, Ribblesdale, Fidelity and Crusaders, and Horizon lodges and from the District Charity Stewards Fund. The cheque was presented by WBro Peter Neimeyer Charity Steward of Ribblesdale Lodge to Mrs Freda Whittle representing the Air Ambulance.

WBro Tom Pearson of Albert Edward Lodge No1519, came up with a truly Masonic and selfless way to share his 70th Birthday milestone. Instead of receiving the gifts from friends and family himself, he gave his donations to East Lancashire Hospice and Mill House Masonic Hall at Clayton Le Moors.
Tom was inspired to give his £200 Hospice donation after volunteering at this years Starlight Walk event and seeing the efforts people made to support this worthy local cause. The Starlight Walk is a late night walk in Blackburn, which Accrington District Freemasons organise and volunteer their services in Marshalling the route and keeping the walkers safe.
Tom's donation to Mill House Masonic Hall will assist them in their current extension and refurbishment works, due to be opened on the 3rd of September by our Provincial Grand Master.

WBro Tom Pearson of Albert Edward Lodge No1519 presents a cheque for £200 to Sharon Crymble, East Lancashire Hospice Fundraising Manager

Accrington District Charity Stewards Summer BBQ Grand Draw

The Accrington District Charity Stewards held their Summer BBQ Grand Draw on Saturday June 25th, held at Mill House, Clayton Le Moors.
97 Brethren and their families supported the annual fund raising event on what turned out to be an inclement day for an outside cooking event. Not to be deterred, the caterer arranged the food to be cooked and served indoors, once again providing plenty to eat for all of the guests.
WBro Allan Low provided a quiz for all of the guests, won by the ladies and Brethren from Rhyddings Lodge No.5205.
The Grand Draw was announced and conducted by our former Chairman WBro Raymond Tattersall.
After a few words to all involved, our District Chairman, WBro Roger Flitcroft drew the first ticket and prize of £150, which was won by Bro Tony Hindle, Charity Steward of Rhyddings Lodge No.5205 and his wife Anne. The second prize of £75.00 was won by WBro Peter Walker of Keep Lodge No.6538.
There was a total of 47 prizes won and distributed on a night, hopefully enjoyed by all present.
A good sum was raised for Charity by the sales of Raffle tickets by the Charity Stewards and the attendees on the night.
Particular thanks go to Bro Nick Bellas and Bro Brian Derbyshire for their hard work in bringing this event together, WBro Stephen Watson and Bro Andy Taylor for their assistance at the event, WBro Gordon Fletcher and WBro Ken Dawber for helping set up the room, WBro Chris Riding for once again providing the music and MC services, Charity Stewards who worked hard selling the tickets and promoting the event but most of all, to all who bought raffle tickets and/or attended the Draw.

On Wednesday the 22nd of June "The Derek Exton Memorial trophy" Golf competition took place at Rishton Golf Club. This competition replaced the Accrington & District Masonic Golf Competition, and was renamed in memory of W Bro Derek Exton who had organized the event for many years with his wife Mrs Mary Exton. The Chairman of The Accrington District W Bro Roger Flitcroft greeted all the competitors on the first Tee. The winner was W Bro Roy Corbridge and the Trophy was presented by Mrs Mary Exton. W Bro Tom Gallaher organized the event and meal following the competition. It is hoped to hold a Turkey Shoot later in the year dependant on interest shown.

Over the first weekend of June WBro Bernard Spencer, WM of Perseverance Lodge, accompanied by his wife, June, made a trip to Bournemouth to present WBro Robinson with his 50th certificate. They visited Riseborough Care Home where they were met by Mr Brian Pople, who had organised their visit. Mr Pople introduced them to WBro Robinson, who suffers from Parkinsons Disease, as they had not met before. Raymond was very glad to see Bernard and June. After chatting to Raymond for a short while they made the presentation of the 50th certificate. They also presented Raymond with framed photographs of the lodge presentation evening, as the ones in the story below. It was a very pleasant weekend.

34 willing Brethren from the Accrington District volunteered to Marshall the 2011 Ladies Starlight Walk in aid of East Lancashire Hospice on Saturday June 18th.

The Ladies only 8 mile walk follows a route around Blackburn from 10pm till about 1.30am in the morning. Freemasons managed to at 80% of the forty marshalling points, keeping the Ladies safe and encouraged as they made their way around the town.

The day started with a small number of our volunteers moving all of the tables, marquees, merchandise and equipment up to the start point at the DW Sports fitness centre at Shadsworth.

The marshalls started the evening with a curry at the Spice Rooms at Rishton, then our Brethren made their way back to the Car Park, helping the walk participants park and keeping the area safe for pedestrians.

The Ladies duly set off a 10pm and were guided admirably by all involved, Masonic and none masonic volunteers, followed by a number of back markers across the route, again provided by our Brethren. A good number of our Marshalls returned to the DW Sports Centre to receive their wages without scruple or diffidence, well knowing they were justly entitled to them (a sausage butty and a brew!), and continued to assist on the car park and help tidy away.

The last lady walked home, complete with walking stick at 1.30am and received her medal, supplied by the ELMC through a community fund £1000 grant for the event. Each medal lanyard bore the words 'Accrington District Freemasons' and 'www.pglel.co.uk'

The Hospice were absolutley delighted with our support again, without which the event could not have taken place. The estimated total made on the night could now reach £90,000. Congratulations to all involved.

"WBro Peter Hargreaves PAGDC, took great pleasure in presenting a cheque for £250 to the Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team, on behalf of the Accrington District Charity Stewards, following a successful application for support of this essential local voluntary team.
Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team is a registered charity, made up entirely of volunteers. An integral part of the national search and rescue service, they are called out through the 999 system, and cover an area of approx 350 square miles across East Lancashire, Pendle, the Rossendale Valley and parts of Greater Manchester.

Their work isn’t just about moors and mountains. Through links with both Lancashire and Greater Manchester Police, and the Lancashire and Greater Manchester Ambulance Services, many of the call outs involve missing person searches, or assisting the ambulance service during severe weather conditions and where access to a casualty is difficult.

In 2010, they launched the New Base Appeal, the aim to raise £500,000 for a purpose built headquarters in Haslingden, with sufficient storage and parking, and room for training and operational purposes, as well as the facility to offer demonstrations and talks on their own premises.

Group Picture: L to R:- Graham Dalley, current Chairman of the RPMRT,
John Parish incoming Chairman of the RMPT receives a Cheque for £250 from WBro Peter Hargreaves PAGDC,
along with Bro Nick Bellas, Secretary of the Accrington District Charity Stewards.

On Thursday the 2nd of June an Initiates evening was hosted by Bank Terrace Lodge No 462 at Accrington Masonic Hall when 22 Initiates and 84 Brethren attended.
WBro Derek Nelson Thornhill J P, APGM, accompanied by Officers of United Grand Lodge, WBro R W Fitcroft PProvJW, the Chairman of the Accrington District, along with the District team of Officers attended the meeting.
The APGM took the chair and introduced all the Grand Lodge Officers to the brethren.
WBro A D Costello PAGDC, Provincial Mentor, gave a lecture on the Initiation Ceremony for which purpose Bro D Smith of Bank Terrace Lodge assisted as the candidate.
The lecture was very informative and received with enthusiasm by all Brethren present.
Each Initiate was presented to the APGM and received a certificate commemorating the evening

Bro Michael Andrews      St Aidan Lodge
Bro Marcus Avci                Keep Lodge
Bro John Carney              Rhyddings Lodge
Bro Daniel Duxbury         Confidence Lodge
Bro Ewan Dyda                 Confidence Lodge
Bro Michael Forshaw       Albert Edward Lodge
Bro Adrian Grant               St Aidan Lodge
Bro John Hargreaves       Amity Lodge
Bro Philip Heslin               Keep Lodge
Bro Kevin Horrocks          Huncoat Lodge
Bro Donald Johnson        Huncoat Lodge
Bro Richard Jones            Confidence Lodge
Bro Frank Leach               Bank Terrace Lodge
Bro Ken Learoyd               Huncoat Lodge
Bro Lee Lynch                   St Aidan Lodge
Bro Gordon Marchant      King Oswald Lodge
Bro James Mellor              St Aidan Lodge
Bro Paul Pratt                    Bank Terrace Lodge
Bro Nicholas Rowbotham Albert Edward Lodge
Bro Alan Shields               Huncoat Lodge
Bro Christopher Williams Albert Edward Lodge
Bro Warren Wolstencroft King Oswald Lodge.

The APGM then asked the WM Bro Brian Derbyshire to resume his place in the Lodge. The APGM accompanied by Grand Lodge Officers, the District Chairman and District Officers retired from the Lodge.
Prior to the Festive board. The APGM addressed the Brethren and introduced the District Chairman and the District Officers, each Officer giving a brief presentation regarding their respective roles. The Festive board followed and took the form of a Old England Night.
The Toast to the visitors was given by Bro Frank Leach and the response by Bro Lee Lynch of St Aidan Lodge.
It was a evening of true Masonic friendship and thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Perseverance Lodge celebrated the 50th anniversary of one of their longest serving members, WBro Raymond Robinson, at their May meeting, although the birthday boy was not present himself, living in Bournmouth and not being in the best of health to be able to attend. The landmark was however well celebrated by the brethren present.

The lodge being opened in due form, on a report WBro Derek Thornhill PSGD, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, accompanied by a district delegation led by the District Chairman, WBro Paul Aspinall PAGDC, were admitted. On being offered the gavel of the Lodge WBro Thornhill took the chair of the lodge.

WBro Derek Rushton PProvSW then gave a resume of the career and masonic history of his long-time friend and masonic brother WBro Robinson, recounting his life as a funeral director before moving down south.

WBro Thornhill then read and presented an illuminated certificate from the Provincial Grand Master to WBro Bernard Spencer PAGDC, the Worshipful Master to pass on to WBro Robinson.

The delegation then retired and after the lodge was closed the brethren enjoyed a festive board where WBro Robinson was remembered in the toast to Absent Brethren, as he is at every lodge festive board.

After being the Representative at the installation of Loyalty Lodge in October WBro Tony Costello PAGDC, Provincial Grand Mentor, kindly agreed to return and deliver a lecture.

Along with WBro Costello a District Delegation led by WBro Paul Aspinall PAGDC, District Chairman, was also present. Also attending the meeting were several brethren from West Lancashire as the Worshipful Master, Bro Alan Davenport is a member of a lodge in that province.

The lecture chosen was an explanation and demonstration of the First Degree Ceremony. WBro Costello was assisted by WBro Richard Sutleiff, the mentor of Fidelity Lodge who acted as the candidate, Bro Roy Greenall of Peaceful Valley lodge acting as Junior Deacon and fifteen junior brethren from lodges within the District reading parts of the ceremony and explanations of the meanings behind why we do what we do. WBro Costello then answered questions taken from the brethren.

District Chairman, Worshipful Master, Provincial Mentor along with those taking part in the demonstration

It is a bit of a family affair in Loyalty Lodge as the Worshipful Master, Bro Alan Davenport is joined in the principal offices by his son Bro Damien Davenport as Senior Warden, and his son-in-law Bro Chris Molyneux as Junior Warden.

Bro Alan Davenport WM, WBro Costello Provincial Mentor, Bro Damien Davenport SW, Bro Chris Molyneux JW

After the lodge was closed the brethren retired to the festive board to end a very interesting evening.

Following a successful Grant application to the ELMC community Fund from the Accrington District Charity Stewards, WBro Roger Flitcroft PProvJGW, Accrington District Chairman, took great pleasure in presenting a cheque for £1000. The grant application was made to sponsor the participants medals and Lanyards for the annual East Lancs Hospice Starlight Walk, to be held this year on Saturday June 18th. It is a late night ladies only walk, in aid of the Hospice, with up to 1000 lady walkers on the night. The Brethren of the District actively organise and participate as the stewards for the event, keeping the ladies safe on the entire route.

Each of the lanyards has "Accrington District Freemasons" and "www.pglel.co.uk" printed, showing our support to this local Charity and demonstrating our active participation in the event.

More volunteers for the event are needed, if you can assist please contact Dave McGurty: davemcgurty@gmail.com for more information.

Photo Caption:- From Left to right:- Denise Gee, Hospice Events Fundraiser with the medals, WBro Roger Flitcroft with the cheque, Jamie Lyons, community fundraiser with a medal.

It was Accrington District Charity Stewards turn to gladly hand over a cheque for £350 for the Patients Drinks Trolley at East Lancashire Hospice.

The donation, which is supplied on a half yearly basis, is carried out between both Accrington and Blackburn districts.

The patients truly appreciate and enjoy their afternoon drink, and both Districts are proud to continue with this tradition and bring a little pleasure to the Patients of the Hospice.

Photo Caption:- WBro Roger Flitcroft PProvJGW, Chairman of the Accrington District, hands over the cheque for £350 to the Hospice Volunteers and Patients.

The ELMC Community Fund has for the last few years given a grant to the Thwaites Empire Theatre in Blackburn, which allows them to put on a Christmas pantomime for local children. This year is no different. The ELMC Community Fund and Blackburn District are happy to support the Theatre in this effort.

A District team of WBro Paul Aspinall, District Chairman, WBro David Lightbown, Deputy Chairman and WBro John Rimmer, District Charity Steward visited the Theatre to hand over a cheque for the sum of £4,000 from the ELMC Community Fund to support this year’s pantomime production of Sinbad.

Photo: Theatre manager Paul Mason and Managing Director Michael Berry receiving the cheque from WBro John Rimmer, District Charity Steward accompanied by WBro David Lightbown and WBro Paul Aspinall

On Saturday May 14th, WBro Derek Thornhill, PSGD, APGM for Northern area No.1, started the Accrington District section for the joint weekend Walk the Province walk in for the EL2015 Festival in aid of the RMBI, between Accrington and Blackburn Districts.
Starting at Clitheroe Masonic Rooms, WBro Thornhill formally handed the baton to WBro Roger Flitcroft PProvJGW, Chairman of the Accrington District, to begin the days fund raising efforts.
The Walk, in which approximately 40 (mostly) willing walkers participated, was a point to point walk across each Masonic Hall in the District, firstly stopping at Whalley, then Clayton Le Moors, Accrington and finally finishing the Accrington District leg at Oswaldtwistle in the mid afternoon.
Each Masonic Hall welcomed the walkers with refreshments and fantastic support as the Brethren, wives, partners, friends and pets, made their way across the District.
WBro Chris Riding, Worshipful Master of Albert Edward Lodge No.1519, did the full journey on his mobility scooter, charging the batteries and making pit stops along the way!
The Baton was passed to WBro Paul Aspinall PAGDC, Chairman of Blackburn District on Sunday morning in Oswaldtwistle by WBro Roger Flitcroft, to start the Oswaldtwistle to Blackburn, then Darwen leg of the event.

On the 24th of March 2011 at the Masonic Hall Clayton Le Moors Accrington, Albert Edward Lodge No 1519 celebrated W Bro Keith Lomax PProvGSwdB 50 years membership of Freemasonry and the Lodge .

WBro Derek Nelson Thornhill PSGD APGM accompanied by W Bro Harry Hesmondhalgh PAPGM and colleagues of United Grand Lodge along with WBro R W Flitcroft PProvJGW Chairman of the Accrington District and District Officers attended the meeting.

The APGM was welcomed into the Lodge by the Worshipful Master Bro Chris Riding PProvAGDC, who offered him the gavel which he accepted, WBro Thornhill then introduced the delegation to the Brethren.

WBro David Bristol ProvDGDC placed W Bro Lomax in the centre of the Lodge. WBro Thornhill congratulated him on achieving 50 years in Freemasonry and proceeded to outline many of the events which occurred in 1961 the year of Keith’s initiation, he also mentioned many of the Hit records of that year which brought back many happy memories to the Brethren, not least to WBro Thornhill, as it reminded him of his own career in pop music.

WBro Norman Burdrkin PProvDepGSuptWKs then paid a glowing tribute to WBro Lomax his Brother-In-Law. This covered his 50 years in Freemasonry including the fact that in 1972 he was the first Master to be installed in Albert Edward Lodge in their new home at Mill House Masonic Hall.

He also stressed the great importance that WBro Lomax attached to his family life and to the Church of England, also stating that it was a matter of great pride to WBro Lomax that he has sung the Masters song at all Installations of the Lodge (with the exception of his own!) WBro Burdekin then presented WBro Lomax with a framed picture of a Lake District scene as a gift from the Lodge.

The Lodge also conferred Honorary Membership to Keith in recognition of his achievement.

WBro Thornhill then addressed WBro Lomax and made a presentation of an Illuminated Certificate and a letter of congratulation from the R.W. Provincial Grand Master Jack Price which was received with great pride.

WBro Lomax was then escorted round the Lodge by the ProvDGDC WBro David Bristol to the applause of the Brethren.

The lodge was then closed in due form and the brethren retired to enjoy the Festive Board.

An excellent toast was proposed by WBro David Anderson PProvSGW to WBro Lomax, his very good friend after which he presented a bottle of whiskey to Keith specifically for his own consumption in some recompense for the many times he had given glasses of whiskey to WBro Burdekin and Anderson and their wives on their many holidays together.

WBro Lomax replied by thanking everyone for attending and making it such a memorable occasion for him.

There were 66 Brethren present in the Lodge and festive board to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Over 60 Brethren attended St Michael In Castro Lodge No 8838, last ever Installation Meeting held on Tuesday the 3rd of May at the Masonic Rooms, Clitheroe. The Lodge was to hand in the Warrant after the meeting

WBro Derek Nelson Thornhill, APGM, PSGD, accompanied by WBro R W Flitcroft, PProvJGW, Chairman of the Accrington District, and other District Officers were in attendance to witness the Ceremony and closure. A cheque for £2000 for ELMC was presented to the APGM by the WM, Bro Simon P Wood, prior to the Installation.

The Installation was a family affair with the Installing Master Bro Simon P Wood Installing his great uncle, WBro Peter Walker, PProvSGW, as the last Master of St Michael in Castro Lodge in an excellent fashion. On a poignant note after the closing of the Lodge the Warrant of the Lodge was presented to the APGM who informed the Brethren that he would keep the Warrant in a safe place until such time as it would be taken to United Grand Lodge in London with all other items appertaining to St Michael in Castro Lodge.

The Festive Board took place at the Swan & Royal Hotel where the sadness of the occasion was lifted by the Worshipful Master, Peter Walker, who stated that it was not a time for sadness but a celebration of the wonderful years the brethren had spent as members of the Lodge and that it was a time for looking forwards towards new beginnings. W Bro Harry Hesmondhalgh, PSGD, PAPGM, Honorary member of the Lodge, then gave an oratory of all the founding members of the Lodge which was received with great enthusiasm by all the brethren present to which WBro Bryan Bristol, PAGSuptWKs, suitably replied.

At the March meeting of Coronation Lodge 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 Coronation Lodge No.3479.

There were a total of exactly 100 brethren at the centenary meeting, one for each year of the lodge’s existence!

The lodge was opened by the Worshipful Master Bro Ellis and on a report WBro Norman Cope, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies was admitted and with due ceremony the provincial delegation led by RWBro Jack Price The Provincial Grand Master entered the lodge.

The Provincial Grand Master took the gavel of the lodge offered by the Worshipful Master for the centenary proceedings. The Centenary Warrant was then read and laid before the lodge. WBro David Astbridge then gave a very comprehensive history of the lodge.

WBro David Halford, the Provincial Grand Chaplain gave an excellent oration followed by the formal presentation of the Centenary Warrant to the Lodge and instruction from the RW Provincial Grand Master to wear their centenary jewels with pride.

There was a surprise for WBro Ron Greenhalgh, a senior past master of the lodge, when he was brought before the Provincial Grand Master and appointed to the rank of Past Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works for the Province of East Lancashire, for his contribution to Coronation Lodge. He was then proudly escorted back to his seat by the Provincial Director of Ceremonies to the acclaim of the brethren.

The RW Provincial Grand Master accompanied by the Provincial Deputation then retired and the lodge was closed with solemn prayer. The brethren then enjoyed a wonderful festive board which went on into the late evening.

The RW Provincial Grand Master, with the Worshipful Master and Lodge DC, WBro P Ellis and his father WBro B Ellis

St Michael In Castro Lodge No 8838 Hosts the
First Annual Joint Meeting of the Clitheroe Lodges
February 1st 2011

On Tuesday the 1st of February 2011, St Michael In Castro Lodge No8838 hosted the First Annual Joint meeting of the Clitheroe Lodges at the Masonic Rooms, Clitheroe Conservative Club.

The APGM W Bro Derek Nelson Thornhill J P PSGD accompanied by W Bro R W Flitcroft PProvJGW. The Chairman of The Accrington District and District Officers attended the meeting.
A talk was given by W Bro Brian J Carter ProvGAlm entitled “How I see my role as the Provincial Almoner”
This was well received by all the Brethren present; W Bro Brian J Carter ProvGAlm was congratulated by the WM and the APGM on its content and delivery.

The Festive Board took place at The Swan & Royal Hotel and during the evening a cheque for £357 for the ELMC was presented by W Bro Peter Walker PProvJGW to W Bro Brian J Carter. Over 70 Brethren attended the event which proved a resounding success

Leftto right:- WM Castle Lodge, Stephen Thornber; WM Keep Lodge, Wayne Edmondson; APGM, WBro Derek Nelson Thornhill JP PSGD; IPM St Michael In Castro Lodge, WBro D Haworth; WM Limestone Rock Lodge, Ian Johnson

Blackburn and Darwen District held their annual Chadwick Weekend over the 21 – 22 January, with 80 guests enjoying a weekend away at the Chadwick Hotel Lytham St Annes on the Fylde Coast. This number, made up of Freemasons with their partners and friends, included 18 guests from Accrington District.

The highlight of the weekend was an excellent 5 course meal on Saturday evening, when the theme was Gangsters and Molls. Guests dressed up for the occasion in flamboyant style for a fancy dress competition.

The men’s fancy dress competition was won by WBro Paul Smillie, District Communications Officer and the ladies competition was won by Mrs Beryl Aspinall, wife of the District Chairman Paul. With a special prize going to WBro John Kenyon of Perseverance Lodge who got totally confused and came as a Moll.

Mrs Joanne Smillie and WBro Paul Smillie, DIstrict Communications Officer, Mens Fancy Dress Prize Winner

After the meal the draw took place for the Annual Charity Stewards Prize Draw, which raised over £1200 for charity. There followed music, singing and dancing into the small hours with an excellent entertainment package of two live acts, a superb Tenor and a guitar duo, and disco from the hotels compare.

An excellent weekend was had by all and our sincere thanks must go to the Chadwick Hotel and also to Mrs Doris Lamb who organised most of the weekend and spent a lot of time arranging it all so that we could have a relaxing weekend.

This annual event will take place again next year over the same weekend 20th – 21st January and the theme will be Abba Mania, so get out your spandex trousers and platform shoes! The weekend can be booked for either a one, two or three night package to suit all. For all enquiries please contact the District Secretary Joe Lamb.

Mrs Lamb managed to bag a prize in the Grand Raffle, presented by WBro Paul Aspinall, District Chairman

The Accrington District Charity Stewards raised a wonderful £1251 for charitable causes on Saturday 15th January, at their Annual Grand Winter Draw.
The event took place at Accrington Masonic Hall and was supported by Brethren, their families and friends from Lodges and Chapters from across the Accrington District.

An evening consisting of a two course supper, excellent musical Artist Sue Kirby and the draw itself, rounded off weeks of good work by the local Charity Stewards, who sold tickets for the draw and booked places at the evening.

WBro Raymond Tattersall PProvDepGReg, who recently stood down as the District Charity Steward after four years, conducted the Draw. His wife Valerie and Raymond himself were presented with gifts to mark the Charity Stewards and Districts thanks for his work and continued support. WBro Tattersall has been involved with the Charity Stewards for over 17 years, with four in the District Charity Steward role.

Left to Right: WBro Raymond Tattersall invites WBro Roger Flitcroft, PProvJGW, District Chairman to Draw the 1st ticket from Bro Nick Bellas, Secretary to The Accrington District Charity Stewards.

WBro Raymond Tattersall, PProvDepGReg, presents Mrs Learoyd with the 1st Prize of £150.00

Mrs Valerie Tattersall and WBro Raymond Tattersall, PProvDepGReg, with their gifts.

Brethren from the Accrington District and the Blackburn and Darwen District presented a cheque for £2850 to the East Lancashire Hospice this week. £2500 of which has come from the Freemasons Grand Charity. The total amount given to Hospices through the Freemasons Grand Charity Hospice Programme over the past 24years is now over £8 million. WBro Roger Flitcroft PProvJGW, Accrington District Chairman and WBro Paul Aspinall PProvJGW, Blackburn and Darwen District Chairman, took great pleasure in presenting the cheque to the day care patients of the Hospice.
The donation was further bolstered by £350 from the Blackburn and Darwen District, as it was their turn to present the half yearly donation towards the patients drinks trolley, following Accrington Districts presentation of £350 in May of this year.

From left to right:- WBro Roger Flitcroft (Accrington District Chairman), WBro Paul Aspinall (Blackburn District Chairman), WBro David Lightbown (Blackburn Deputy District Chairman), WBro Paul Smillie (Blackburn District Comms Officer), John Rimmer (Blackburn District Charity Steward) along with the Day Care patients of East Lancashire Hospice receive the cheque for £2850