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Oldham District Annual Widows Christmas Party

The annual widows Christmas party took place at the Middleton Masonic Hall on Thursday the 11th December 2008.

This year over 60 Widows where chauffeured from home to the party and enjoyed a festive menu ably prepared & presented by the Hall Catering Staff.

The Asst Prov.Grand Master, WBro Harold Woodward, with his wife Phyllis were in attendance & the guest of Honour for the evening was the Excellent Companion Alan Bennion P.A.G.Soj. Deputy Grand Superintendent accompanied by his wife.

The party began with a welcome from W.Bro David Dunn (left) to all the ladies who come each year and especially to those ladies who had come for the first time. He went on to explain the evening's proceedings and hoped that they all would have a wonderful time.

Entertainment was provided by Lesley and Nigel who sang Christmassy songs and encouraged the ladies to join in which they did with enthusiasm. During the entertainment many of the ladies danced the night away with the Stewards from Werneth Lodge, under the Direction of W.Bro. Jack Ball.

At the end of the celebration one Widow spontaneously asked the singer to play New York New York to which the majority of the widows stood joined in a line and kicked their legs into the air in tune with the song.

At the end of the party, W.Bro. David Dunn thanked the ladies for coming, hoped they had a wonderful time, hoped to see them next year and wished them a safe journey home

Richard James Hart celebrated his 50th Anniversary in Craft Masonry

Richard James Hart: The Music Man, receiving his certificate from the APGM.

A wonderfull evening was enjoyed by all who attended W.Bro Richard Hart’s 50 years membership celebration of the craft at Middleton Masonic Club.  This accomplished musical mason enjoyed an evening of Masonic fellowship in the presence of our APGM, Harold Woodward and the Oldham District team.

Our District Chairman (W.Bro Philip Price) made reference to note worthy news from 1958 and the lodge secretary W.Bro Arthur Yates provided a moving account of W.Bro Richard Hart’s entry into freemasonry and gave a glowing tribute of his 50 years membership.

W.Bro Harold Woodward PSGD the APGM gave a brief history, in saying; Richard James Hart was born on 3 December 1920: the day on which Rudyard Kipling was awarded £2 damages from a medical firm that had used part of his poem 'IF' in an advert.

Thirty-eight years later, on 19 November 1958, Richard J Hart was initiated into Freemasonry in the Arthur Sullivan Lodge, No 2156.  It was the year in which 'Who's Sorry Now' and 'Magic Moments' were the musical hits.

On 19 November 2008, W.Bro Richard J Hart, PProvJGW, celebrated his 50th Anniversary in Craft Masonry.  The celebration, held at the Middleton Masonic Hall, was attended by over 80 Brethren.  The celebration made special reference to his contribution to Freemasonry through music: he was Organist of the Arthur Sullivan Lodge for 35 years and Provincial Organist for 5 years. Richard is shown here, seated, in the centre, with the APGM and brethren of the Arthur Sullivan Lodge.

A presentation then took place By the Worshipful Master Fred Plant on behalf of the members of Arthur Sullivan Lodge to WBro Richard Hart and W.Bro Leslie Auger (who celebrated his 50 years in Masonry on the 19th March 2008), both of  these worthy masons received a pair of Masonic cufflinks suitable inscribed. They are shown here with Fred Plant, WM and the APGM, Harold Woodward.

The social board as you would expect from Arthur Sullivan Lodge was a very musical affair with a large number of the brethren joining together to sing renditions of popular Masonic tunes.  W.Bro Richard Hart delighted everyone by ending on a 'high note' when Richard chose to conclude his response to the Toast to himself by playing a medley of songs on the piano.  What a musical treat that proved to be: the 'magic moments' of 50 years ago were recreated and greeted by all with sustained acclaim

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Ben Brierley Lodge Centenary Meeting

On Monday 10th November 2008, Ben Brierley Lodge, No. 3317, celebrated their Centenary at Middleton Masonic Club and provided a most memorable night for the throngs that packed the Lodge room. In a masterful display of organisation over 120 brethren were seated in the room, in time to tyle on schedule at six o’clock. The sight of the Lodge room so full with masons, of this and other Provinces, and in fact, as there were some brethren from north of the border present, other Constitutions, was impressive enough before the meeting started.

The Lodge was opened in due form by the Worshipful Master, Bro D Paul Lewis, after the initial business had been completed. We were then treated to the entrance of the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Jack Price, and his Provincial Deputation. This is always a splendid sight and any brother who sees it knows he is in for a good evening. After the PGM and his Wardens had taken their respective chairs, the first order of business was to read the Centenary Warrant. This was done by the Provincial Grand Secretary, WBro H Alan J Garnet, PJGD. The Warrant was then placed on display on the floor of the Lodge.

Next, WBro Revd. David J Halford, a long standing member of Ben Brierley Lodge and the acting Provincial Grand Chaplain, gave an Oration. This was delivered with obvious affection for his subject and was both interesting, informative and included some of Ben Brierley’s poetry. WBro Halford touched on the origin of Ben Brierley Lodge and went into some detail of the life of Ben Brierley himself. This wasn’t a list of dry facts but gave an insight into the place and time that he had lived and worked in. I am sure many of the brethren present, learnt a lot about, as WBro Halford put it, “A self taught man and Mason who readily put into practice the benefits of education, by which means alone we are rendered fit members of organised society.”

WBro Harry Sykes was ‘up next’ - another long standing member of Ben Brierley Lodge He gave a brief history of the Lodge and, again, his obvious pride and affection for his Lodge shone through. That’s not to say that there wasn’t a liberal sprinkling of WBro Sykess’ dry humour to keep everyone amused. As well as the significant events in the history of the Lodge, WBro Sykes also spoke about some of the past members of the Lodge and the contributions they made. This gave a real sense of the continuity and the legacy that the Lodge has, as it celebrates its centenary.

The Provincial Grand Master then presented the Centenary Warrant to the Worshipful Master and, in his turn, the Worshipful Master presented the PGM with a Centenary Jewel. As an honorary member the PGM immediately pinned it on. He was then presented with a truly generous check to the ELMC for the sum of £3317, matching the Lodge’s number.

The final ‘piece of business’ for the PGM was to promote WBro G Wellens, Ben Brierley’s Royal Arch Representative, to the rank of PProvJGD - an honour that was very apparently a surprise for many there including WBro Wellens. He was very clearly moved by the event. The Provincial Grand Master and his team then retired and the Lodge was closed by Bro Lewis, bringing an enjoyable and flawlessly organised meeting to an end.

And so to the social board. The warmth and hospitality that the members of Ben Brierley Lodge had shown to their visitors continued. The highlight was the toasts by the Wardens. It is always a privilege to propose the toasts, but when the brothers are actually there in person it is doubly so. The Senior Warden, WBro Bill Andrews and the Junior Warden, Bro Andrew Halford (who in the tradition of Ben Brierley Lodge is one of the two sons of WBro the Rev David Halford in the Lodge) gave excellent toasts. The toast to WBro Harold Woodward, the APGM, who was part of the Provincial Deputation, was particularly warm and heartfelt.

The response by the Provincial Grand Master echoed the fraternal feeling that I am sure everybody felt and he particularly mentioned the stability that freemasonry offers in a world of rapid change.

It only remains to proffer congratulations to Ben Brierley Lodge No. 3317 on a great start and thank their Centenary committee and all the brethren for a really memorable and enjoyable Masonic evening.  

Summer Garden Party a Roaring Success Held on Sunday 20th July 2008.

The flyer said “Sure to be a highlight of the summer” and having experienced it I would say it might be considered ‘the’ highlight. A very well attended function with good food, great entertainment and of course convivial company, what more could one ask.

The organisation by Ken Turner and the rest of the district team was flawless, even to the point of having the best weather of the month delivered for the event. As this is one of the few opportunities for members of Shaw and Middleton lodges to enjoy each others company on a large scale it was good to see both buildings represented, there were more Middleton Masons present but I’m sure when the good report gets back to Shaw future events will be more balanced.

The afternoon started with the Barbeque cooked and served by members of the district team which was universally well received, Charles Ward wore a rather fetching pink outfit which everyone commented on and David Whittingham never missed the plate when serving the chicken, it was pointed out that a plate is a lot bigger than golf hole, which he misses quite often but we will not be so churlish as to dwell on this. The selection of desserts was enough to wreak the diets of all but the strongest willed and there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth as the Strawberry Gateaux was reluctantly consumed, it was even worse when they went back to try the chocolate.

It was then time for the entertainment to start. In keeping with the intention of raising money for local charities we were to be entertained by a local choir and band.

T

he first session from the band was held in the garden and although there was a little, watery, evening sun it was ‘a bit parky’ still this being Oldham district and we being hardy folk most people sat in the garden enjoying the ‘summer’ and the band. The Lancashire Fusiliers band played a wide and varied selection of music. They had several instruments which you wouldn’t expect to find in a brass band including a piccolo and clarinet that gave a much mellower sound than usually associated with a brass band.

The music then moved indoors and the Choir gave their first performance. The choir’s membership was gathered from an amateur operatic society in Higher Crompton but they had stopped all that messing about on the stage and instead concentrated on singing. We were again royally entertained with songs from the shows performed as full choir sprinkled with solo performances.

Next it was the bands turn again they too had moved inside because, as they said it’s hard to play a flute with cold fingers. Another fantastic programme of music followed including songs from Abba and light classics finished off with a rousing rendition of the regimental march ‘The British Grenadiers’

It was then up to the choir to provide a fitting finale, which they most assuredly did. Again there were some excellent soloists and selections by the whole choir, the excepts from West Side Story were particularly memorable When the ladies sang ‘I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair’ it was hard to see how the men could match them but they came back with ‘There is nothing like a Dame’ and everybody was happy. Persuaded to do an encore they reprised ‘The Bear Necessities’ with much audience participation which added a lot to the enjoyment but little to the sound quality.

It only remained for Ken to thank everyone and announce that about £1200 had been raised. He handed the mike the district chairman Philip  Price who inspired and pleased us all by not singing, instead a few well chosen words sent us home under a clear blue summer evening sky humming and happy.

The first, the fourth and the last

This is the remarkable series of events which took place at the Richmond Lodge No 1011 Installation meeting which took place on the 17th June at the Middleton Masonic Rooms. The ‘first' concerned W Bro Eric Kirkbride who recently elevated to The Grand Lodge was asked to represent the Provincial Grand Master at the Richmond Lodge Installation. This was Eric's first time acting as the PGM's representative, and in his capacity as the chairman of the Rochdale he asked the district team would they like to accompany him on this auspicious occasion. And indeed 5 of the team were present.
Richmond lodge is an old established lodge but small in numbers and there were another group of visitors from Salford and West Yorkshire.

The installation took place and the newly installed Master, W Bro M Carr had taken the chair of King Solomon for the ‘fourth time, this must be a record.

At the social board the fellowship was a joy to behold, excellent food was combined with excellent company, the toasts to the Queen, the Grand Master, the Pro Grand Master and Grand Lodge Officers were proposed and honoured.
The next toast, which on this occasion would be remembered by all present, was to The Provincial Grand Master for East Lancashire W Bro Paul E Rink. The Senior Warden proposed the toast for the very ‘last' time in the province as the PGM retired from office at midnight. W Bro John Whitworth, from West Salford Lodge No 3867 sang the Masters song unaccompanied, his rich melodious voice filling the room with emotion. Another first was the reply to the visitor's toast given on this occasion by W Bro Ken Rowlett who is an acting Provincial Grand Steward.

The evening ended with everyone looking forward the Installation of the new Provincial Grand Master that was to take place the following day in Blackburn.

Pictured from L to R; W Bro John Whitworth, WM, W Bro M Carr, W Bro Eric J Kirkbride, Representative of the PGM
W Bro Philip J Price, Oldham District Chairman

WBro Leslie Auger celebrates 50 years in freemasonry

On the 19th March at the Middleton Masonic Hall WBro Harold Woodward APGM took the Chair of Arthur Sullivan Lodge No 2156 to present WBro Leslie Auger a certificate to celebrate 50 years in freemasonry. During the ceremony the lodge secretary read the minutes on what happen the day that Leslie Auger was admitted into freemasonry. WBro Philip Price (District Chairman) stood and related what was in the news and sports events that took place in February 1958.

• Members of the Manchester United Football team were injured and killed in a plane crash.
• Washington: Howard Eisenhower was on the way to recovery after his operation.
• Mick Howarth became formula 1 champion.
• General Charles de Gaulle was elected president of France.
• First Parking meter was introduced in London.
• The first yellow line was painted in London.
• Hover Craft became new form of transport.
• Leslie Auger was initiated into freemasonry by WBro Eric Bowler PProvGStwd on the 19th March 1958 with 43 members and 5 visitors present.

WBro Thomas J.B Whiteley PProvJGW then gave an in-depth history of Leslie Auger's life.

“Leslie was born in Sheffield on the 2nd March 1925 into a large family of six brothers and one sister; sadly he is the only survivor. Everyone in his family was musical and singing was encouraged making it a home full of melody as was the case in most homes before the advent of television. Leslie attend school and ended up at grammar school at the age of twelve and left at the age of fourteen to take his first job as a laboratory assistant in the fuel technology department of Sheffield University. At the age of sixteen he found employment in the rating department of the Town Hall and found many work colleagues with the same musical interest as himself and in fact one was an ex opera singer who helped Leslie in his voice production and so he began to consider music seriously.
After service in the RAF as a wireless mechanic stationed at a lonely, boring, transmitting post in the Persian Gulf he resumed his duties at the rating office. Then a vacancy occurred at Sheffield Cathedral as a base soloist, he applied for the position and sang there for four and half years. During this time he gained recognition and moved to Manchester Cathedral a more prestigious position, however, he fell on poor times until his Cathedral salary arrived.
His brother persuaded him to put his finances on more firm footing and took up a place at Didsbury Teacher Training Collage and after teaching for ten years he decided to call it a day.
When he was initiated into free masonry 19th March in 1958, soon afterwards began his considerable contribution to Masonic Music, being for many years a member of the East Lancashire Masonic Quartet.
In 1971 he was installed into the chair as master of the lodge whereby he carried out his duties in his own inimitable way”. His musical talent was noticed by many and when asked to perform at social boards, Ladies Evening etc. he gave his services free. As well as his singing talent he also found time to be an extra in such soaps as Emmerdale and Coronation Street.
In 1980 he married for the second time a wonderful young lady named, coincidently Lesley and was known in the lodge as Mrs Leslie.

After the address by WBro Thomas J.B Whiteley, WBro Harold Woodward presented him with the Certificate and letter sent by the Provincial Grand Master WBro James Ernest Rink.
After the presentation WBro Leslie Auger spoke of many aspects of his life and thank his wife for all the support she had given him over the years.

This photos shows WBro Leonard Samuels, WBro Leslie Auger and WBro H Woodward, APGM.

WBro Leslie Auger accompanied WBro Harold Woodward APGM and the district team to an early retirement to the social board and photographs were taken.

WM of Tongue Hall Lodge, WBro Leonard Samuels, WBro Leslie Auger and WBro H Woodward APGM	WBro Leslie Auger PProDepGSwdB & District Team

Imperial Lodge No 5609 Warrant Surrender - 14 March 2008

The lodge was originally consecrated on the 23rd March 1936 some 72 years ago. Since that date many Brethren have taken on the responsibility of Worshipful Masters of the lodge creating many evenings of ceremonies, lectures resulting in hours of friendship and Masonic fellowship.
As we all know each Master makes a promise to administer the lodge to the best of his skill and ability, and ensure that the lodge's warrant issued by ”The United Grand Lodge of England” is kept in good order and passed to his successor.
However, over the years all lodge memberships rise and fall and it is with sorrow that Imperial Lodge's membership has fallen to a number that it is unable to sustain a working lodge.

True the Worshipful Masters promise, WBro Paul Murphy was unable to pass the Lodge and its Warrant onto a successor and had no option but to return the Warrant to ”The Provincial Grand Lodge of England” representative.
WBro Harold Woodward PPSGD, APGM was in attendance when the lodge was closed with great dignity and ceremony and received the Warrant on behalf of UGLE.

WBro Reginald James Vernon's 50th

On the 6th March at the Middleton Masonic Hall WBro Harold Woodward APGM took the Chair of Langley Lodge and presented to WBro Reginald James Vernon a certificate to celebrate 50years in freemasonry. During the ceremony the lodge secretary read the minutes on what happen the day that Reg. Vernon was admitted into freemasonry. WBro Philip Price (District Chairman) stood and related what was in the news and sports events that took place in February 1958.

Provincial and District Officers (WBro Martin Roche ProvDepGrandDC, WBro Reginald James Vernon PPGS Bearer,
WBro Harold Woodward PSGD APGM and WBro Philip Price PPJGW.

Bro Bob Holder then gave an in-depth history of Reg. Vernon's life.

“Reg. was born in Exeter in 1924 into a family of seven brothers and sisters. He attended the local John Stocker Secondary Modern School, leaving at the age of fourteen to find employment in a variety of office jobs.
At the outbreak of war Reg joined the A.T.C. where he rose to the rank of Flight Sergeant – an early reflection of his abilities. The Officers of the A.T.C. were largely drawn from the teaching staff of the local Technical School and Reg was quick to seize the opportunity to further his education and soon volunteered to join the R.A.F. under the P.N.B. scheme namely the Pilot, Navigator, Bomb-aimer scheme and was dispatched to Pembroke College Cambridge for initial training. Later he went on to Marshall's Flying School where he was taught to fly a Tiger Moth biplane and was allowed to fly solo after only six hours tuition! After submitting to aptitude tests in London, Reg was selected to be trained as a navigator- a most responsible position- here was the guy who had to get you there and then bring you back again, often using a sextant and the stars and a lot of head-scratching.

Reg was then posted to a transit camp at Heaton Park where he had to kick his heels for six months whilst waiting for a ship to Canada where he successfully qualified as a navigator. The top third of the course were awarded a Royal Commission, the rest were promoted to Sergeant. Reg, having earned a position in the top third, emerged as Flying Officer Vernon.

The Canadian Training course was so extensive that, by the time it was completed, the European conflict had ended, and as he was preparing to go to the Far East, the atom bomb was dropped so ending hostilities. So all of Reg's war effort was to become, as he likes to call it, "Just a Cook's tour." Nevertheless he enjoyed every minute of it.

Reg went on to complete his education at Grimes Tutorial College in Manchester were he obtain his School Certificate which gained his entry into Teacher Training College at Chester where ex-service men were taught gratis and even given a small grant for living expenses so that as a married man like Reg he had to watch the coppers. Reg's first teaching post was at a school in Oldham and it took him some time to understand the local dialect. As the years passed Reg. took up many positions in teaching.

Reg was first encouraged to join the Masonic fraternity by his father-in-law who was a Provincial Officer in a Cheshire Lodge and, after waiting five years, was initiated into Langley Lodge by none other than my Father on 6th March 1958. It took Reg seventeen years finally to ascend to the Chair of King Solomon during which time he had occupied every office on the floor of the Lodge. Following his year as Immediate Past Master Reg was continually in office and became the first Charity Steward of the Lodge, then Assuistant D.C. and subsequently D.C. Later serving as Chaplain, Almoner and Auditor. He has seldom been out of office and was the first member of Langley Lodge to occupy the chair for a second time. He was promoted to Past Provincial Deputy Grand Superintendent of works and later elevated to the rank of Past Provincial Grand Sword Bearer”

The Lodge was closed and all where invited to the social board. The presentation at the Social Board of the tie & 50th Badge from Imperial George Lodge No: 78 were by W. Bro. Eric Chisholm P.Prov.SGW.
The most senior Brother present that evening and who remembered many of the goings on as recorded in the minutes was WBro. Arthur Pierce P.Prov. JGW; he celebrates his personal 60th in about 18months!

Reginald Vernon with his certificate and Harold Woodward	Harold Woodward and Reginald Vernon

Charity Giving Evening - 2008

Middleton's Freemasons held their 3rd annual charity giving evening on Friday 29th February, when over 100 Masons, families and charity representatives gathered in the main function suite at Middleton Masonic Club. Lodge representatives from Imperial George78, Rectitude Chapter 581, Langley 3989, Imperial 5609, Werneth 6163, Old Elizabethans 8235, Horton 8528 and Tonge Hall 8763 presented cheques totalling over £10,000, which had been raised from within the membership of the various lodges, to a wide variety of charities.

The Charity Representatives were welcomed with a drinks reception and tour of the Masonic facility and were treated to a buffet provided by the Lodges. On receiving their donations each charity representative gave an interesting and often very moving account of the valuable work that they are doing.

The guest of honour was Barbara Wilson M.B.E. from the Coalshaw Green Park project, where the kitchen facilities have been totally refurbished by the Masons of the District, a grant of £9,500 being provided by the East Lancashire Masonic Charity and the labour by volunteers from the Lodges in the District.

The charities receiving donations on the night were, Christie Hospital, The Macular Disease Society, Weston Spirit, A.B.C.( Against Breast Cancer), Macmillan Nurses, Dr Kershaw's Hospice, Broughton House, Stuart Towler Bursary, Francis House, Salford Cross Roads, Bury Hospice, Springhill Hospice, Kingfisher School, Childline, N.S.P.C.C. , First Responders, Littleborough Adult Placement Centre, Oldham Hospital Radio and The Downs Syndrome Association.

The evening was opened with David Dunn “Oldham District Charity Steward” welcoming everyone to the Charity Giving Night. He extended a very warm welcome to the representatives of all the charities present which are those people who want to get involved in helping those less fortunate than others in society, he quoted E.M. Forster who once said “One person with passion is better than forty people merely interested”

He went to explain that Oldham Masonic District covers Oldham, Middleton and Shaw and consists of twenty individual lodges made up of approximately six hundred and fifty masons who, over the year, raise money for charities. This evening is the culmination of the year when the monies raised by various lodges are distributed to worthy causes.

He went on to say that from its earliest days, Freemasonry has been involved in charitable activities and over the past 5 years Freemasonry has raised over £75m for a wide range of charitable purposes. In the UK it is second only to the National Lottery in terms of charitable giving.

He explained the format for the evening and hoped everyone would enjoy themselves as well learning more about other causes as each charity would give a brief synopsis on what the charity and how they would use their donation.

Chapter of Rectitude 581 and Horton Lodge 8235 Presenting a Cheque to ABC (Against Breast Cancer)	Charity Recipients
Imperial George 78 Imperial 5609 Horton 8528 Tonge Hall 8763 Presenting Cheque to Chrities Hospital	Imperial George 78, Inperial 5609, Horton 8528, Lodges Presenting Cheque's to Kingfisher School
Imperial Lodge 5609 Presenting Cheque to Booth Hall Hospital	Langley Lodge 3989 Presenting Cheque to Childline
Old Elizabethans Lodge 8235 Presenting a Cheque to Macular Disease Society	Werneth Lodge 6163 Ladies Presenting a Cheque to Downs Syndrome Association

In his remarks closing the Giving Evening, Philip Price, Oldham District Chairman, said that for some the world was a breathtakingly beautiful and happy environment with life too short to explore and take in all its wonders. There were however those for whom life in this world was more difficult and testing. The Voluntary Sector often provided the only support for those so challenged. Great changes could be made through the funding of those good works.

The Giving Evening had brought together people from different backgrounds. All shared the wish to make a difference to lives through those good causes to which they were dedicated and passionately believed in. The Oldham District Freemasons were pleased to contribute towards and be associated with those good causes. Over £10,000 had been donated on the evening. The District Chairman thanked all involved and hoped that the bonds forged that evening between the Freemasons and the Charities would result in more special times being shared together.

Oldham District - Coalshaw Green Park Kitchen Refurbishment Project

Community life has blossomed in the safe environment established at the now award winning Coalshaw Green Park, Chadderton. The popularity of the Park is a tribute to the voluntary work of Barbara Wilson MBE and her ‘Friends of the Park'. In addition to everything else that they do for the Park Barbara and the Friends provide very affordable meals and refreshments. The Pavilion kitchen had become inadequate to meet growing needs. The cost of refurbishment by contractors was going to be high and wholly beyond the means of the Friends.

The Oldham District Masons who had been supporting the Friends in many ways wanted to help; they had work skills and talent but their own reserves would not pay for the project. An application for a grant from ELMC provided the answer. Using a combination of their ‘hands on' experience and a generous grant from ELMC a Team of Oldham Masons completely gutted and refitted the kitchen in eight days. The Team found the experience uniquely rewarding. Barbara and the Friends were overjoyed when the refurbished kitchen was handed back on 7th February 2008. The very next day a newspaper article appeared praising the work of the Oldham District Freemasons. With grateful thanks to ELMC and the Oldham District Masons Barbara was on 10th February 2008 serving her appreciative ‘regulars' their first Sunday lunch from the new kitchen. Local interest has been tremendous and Freemasonry now has a welcome public face.

The following pictures tell the story of the project.

Kitchen before refurbishment	Philip Price, Brian Kennedy and Ben Graham (plumber from WBro Steve Drugget Company)
Philip Price & Brian Kennedy	Philip Price
Edwin Baines (project leader)	John Palmer & Ben Graham (plumbers from WBro Steve Drugget Company
Edwin Baines	The Completed Refurbishment
WBro John LeBrun, Brian Kennedy & Edwin Baines (project leader)	Barbara Wilson MBE, District Chairman Philip Price, WBro John LeBrun, Edwin Baines and Brian Kennedy.

The Oldham District Masonic Christmas Party
was held at Middleton Masonic Hall, on Thursday 13th December

This year over 65 Widows attended the event & enjoyed a festive menu ably prepared & presented by the Hall Catering Staff. The Asst Prov.Grand Master. WBro. Harold Woodward with his wife Phillys were in attendance & the guest of Honour for the evening was the Provincial Grand Charity Steward, WBro. David Geldhard, P.Prov.J.G.W. accompanied by his wife Ivy. WBro Geldhard gave a light hearted toast to the ladies and reflected on how some of the widows had met the partners.

Mrs Dunn on behalf of the widows responded “whilst W. Bro Geldhard has just delivered a wonderful toast to you, our ladies, I would also like to think that in many ways that toast extends to those Freemasons of Oldham who are no longer with us. Let us remember them all with love, with respect and with admiration. Ladies, may I on your behalf thank W. Bro. Geldhard for his toast. David, we trust that you and Ivy will have a truly memorable evening in our company and at the end of the evening you will agree with us all that this Party is indeed unique and very special to us all.”

Welcome address by WBro.David Dunn.	Werneth Lodge Dance, Wine, Social Stewards
WBro David Gelhard proposing Toast to Ladies.	WBro H Woodward with toasting the ladies
Mrs Dunn reponding to the toast on behalf of ladies	Shane Hamill and Widow singing duet
Shane Hamill entertainer	Shane Hamill entertainer
Mrs Warmold Alpha Lodge enjpying herself who celebrates her 100 birthday in march 2008
Werneth Lodge Stewards dancing with widows	All Ladies Dancing
All Ladies Dancing

Entertainment was provided by Shane Hamill who charmed the Ladies with his collection of ballads & on occasions was assisted by one or two them with his songs. During the entertainment many of the guests danced the night away with the Stewards from Werneth Lodge, under the Direction of WBro. Jack Ball. One of the leading dancers was Mrs Warmold, a Widow from Alpha Lodge, who will celebrate her 100th birthday in March 2008. We all wish Mrs Warmold a very Happy Birthday in March.

At the end of the celebration one Widow spontaneously rose & on behalf of all the Widows present thanked all who had been involved for making the evening so special. A big thank you to all the Lodges of the Oldham District who continue to support this event & to the ones who have moved from the District but who still contribute to the running costs & who's widows still attend. To see these Ladies, many of whom are seventy & eighty years old, meeting friends, reminiscing, laughing, dancing & enjoying themselves makes all the hard work worthwhile.

At the end of the evening the Almoners of the Lodges returned to chauffer their charges home to whom we also thank for keeping the Committee up to date with their records for future years. If any Freemason of the Oldham District knows of a Widow who wishes to attend & has not received an invitation to this Christmas Party please give her name to your Almoner for it to be added for the 2008 Party.

Kingfisher Schoool

The IPM WBro Keith Bardsley and members of Tonge Hall Lodge presented a cheque to the Kingfisher Schoool for £1,000.00 on 22 November 2007.

The Kingfisher School provides facilities for special needs children from the Oldham area, the money will be used to provide a touch screen TV. The TVs feature new technology which enables the children to interact with the screen i.e. colours, sounds and visual effects and the teachers say they are a wonderful stimulating experience. WBro Keith Bardsley has a daughter who has worked at the facility for many years and he has supported events throughout the time she has worked there, being able to present this cheque has given him great pleasure. Members of the lodge also present were WBro Victor Black (Charity Steward).

WBro Richard Riley (Treasurer) WBro David Whittingham (DC). Representatives from the school have expressed an interest in attending the Charity evening to be held at Middleton Masonic Club during February 2008.

Royal Arch MEZ's Garden Party 8 July 2007

Harold Kirby PProvGSuptWks: 60th Anniversary

Do you remember the year in which:-

1,500 collieries were nationalised;

Steel works closed because of lack of coal;

Over 4 million workers were made idle by power cuts as a consequence of heavy snowstorms [over 20ft snow drifts] and sub-zero temperatures?

If you remember it then you are likely to be in receipt of a Retirement Pension, for the year was 1947. It was on 8 April of that year that a 28 year old Mr Harold Kirby was Initiated into Freemasonry in Blair Lodge, No 815.

Harold Kirby, now a resident at Hewlett Court [a residential home provided by the East Lancashire Masonic Charity], chose to celebrate his 60th Anniversary as a Freemason ‘at home'. The celebration was held on Saturday 21 April 2007.

Despite his request that the event be kept ‘low-key', he was well supported by current and former members of Blair Lodge, together with long standing Masonic friends and their ladies. To the delight of Harold, the presence of four generations of the Kirby family, including two great granddaughters, made the occasion rather special.

On behalf of Paul J E Rink, Provincial Grand Master, Harold Woodward, our APGM, presented Harold [the younger looking one] with a Certificate and Letter in recognition of his outstanding and devoted service to Freemasonry.

We trust that Harold, now in his 89th year, will long continue to enjoy the love of his family and the fraternity of his Masonic associations and the fellowship that has brought him so much pleasure.

The following photographs show Harold with:-

His Certificate and the other Harold [our APGM]

Some of his Masonic friends, and

Family and friends

Many congratulations Harold!

Click Here for News on the Middleton Masonic Hall Charitable Giving Night - 2nd March 2007

Click Here for News on the Shaw Masonic Hall Charitable Giving Night - 16th Febuary 2007

Dedication Of New Lodge Room At Middleton

On Monday 5 February 2007 , VWBro Dr Nigel G Bramley-Haworth, DepPGM, officiated at the Dedication of a new Lodge Room [The Parkfield Room] at the Middleton Masonic Hall.

For the purpose of the Dedication Ceremony, Imperial George Lodge, No 78, had the honour of being chosen as the representative Lodge of all the Lodges that meet at Middleton.

Over 130 Freemasons were privileged to be in attendance to witness a most impressive Ceremony. Some 70 assembled in The Parkfield Room with another 60 plus viewing proceedings by video link in the upstairs Lodge Room. This viewing arrangement realistically captured the atmosphere of the occasion and proved to be an outstanding success.

The Parkfield Room not only enhances the Masonic facilities, it also provides a multi-functional facility for use by the community : a most welcoming interface for bringing together the community and Freemasonry.

Congratulations to the Chairman [Steven Briggs] and his Board of Directors for translating a vision into a reality.

The DepPGM together with members of the Provincial delegation and representatives of the Board of Directors.

From left to right - WBro Steven Briggs, Chairman of the Middleton Masonic Club, VWBro Dr Nigel G Bramley-Haworth, DepPGM, WBro Christopher N Sweetman, WM of Imperial George Lodge and WBro Harold Woodward, APGM.

John LeBrun
lebrunjs@ntlworld.com

LODGE GENEROSITY GOES FAR

Generous members of The Crompton Lodge, Shaw, have raised a handsome £4,600 for charity over the past twelve months. The donations were as follows: Royal Masonic Trust for Boys and Girls £1200, ELMBI (2) £1150, Oldham District Committee £100 and to non-Masonic Charities, Christie Hospital £400, Shaw and Crompton Macmillan Cancer Relief £400, Bolton NHS Trust (Thoracic Department) £450, Dr. Kershaw's Hospice £450, SSAFA Forces Help £150, Shaw 1st Scouts £150 and St. Paul's Youth Club, Shaw  £150.

Pictured with the £450 cheque for Dr. Kershaw's are (from the left) Dave Melling (Charity Steward), Vivienne Curtis (Dr. Kershaw's), Neil Bostock (Worshipful Master) and Ken Coburn (Treasurer).
Photograph reproduced by courtesy of Oldham Evening Chronicle.

The fourth annual Masters in Office Dinner was held on the 23rd September at the Gables Masonic Hall in Shaw and was once again a fantastic success. The evening consisted of Masters in office meeting each other, together with their wives, having photographs taken with the APGM W.Bro Harold Woodward followed by a five course evening meal.

At the end of September, the Oldham District became aware of a local Soccer School which needed some assistance. The soccer school is run by Kevyn Gibbons who, having lost his job at the age of 50, decided to use his skills and set up a soccer school. Kevyn has done some tremendous work over the last 15 years with youngsters both in and out of school. He teaches children from 4 years upwards, privately and in schools and has enjoyed the success of signings with big league clubs. He takes groups of children on holidays to Europe and America and always ensures that both advantaged and disadvantage children have a great time.

From left to Right; sponsor David Fernley, Stephen Power Oldham District Communications Officer, Mayor & Mayoress of Oldham and Kevyn Gibbons.

As the school is so popular, the footballs which Kevyn uses wear out very quickly and he was struggling with the kit he had. The Oldham District stepped in and within a few days, had promised a new supply. It was felt that rather than present Kevyn with a cheque, the District should source the footballs and present them to him.

On Tuesday 3 rd October, Kevyn had arranged to present a cheque for £860 to the Mayor and Mayoress of Oldham for the Meningitis Trust. The money was raised by the children from the soccer school during a sponsored run around Tandle Hills.

It was decided to use the opportunity to present the new footballs to Kevyn on the same night so, in the presence of the Mayor of Oldham, 50 young footballers, 50 mums, dads and grandparents, the Oldham District Chairman, Charity Steward and Communications Officer, 50 footballs were handed over to the delight of all present. The Communications Officer also took the opportunity to explain in more detail the work of Freemasons in Shaw and Middleton to the Mayor and Mayoress who thanked the Brethren for their contribution.

Left to right; Stephen Power Oldham District Communications Officer, Kevyn Gibbons (Soccer School) Mayoress & Mayor of Oldham accompanied by youngsters from the Soccer School.

The purchase of the footballs was funded by the Oldham District from donations made by Lodges meeting at Middleton and Shaw. This is exactly the kind of community contribution the APGM of our District wants us to make.

The Soccer School is now in need of some new team bibs (sponsorship opportunity available) so any Lodge or Brother who wishes to make a donation should contact Stephen Power, Oldham District Communications Officer.

The public face of charitable giving

Left to right: Harold Woodward then the representatives of (1) McMillan Nurses, (2) St. Gabriel's Church and (3) Broughton House.		Friday 3 rd March 2006 was a highlight in the Masonic calendar for four Middleton Lodges. Working together with their Hall Management Company, they organised a pilot event in order to assess its potential as a model to be adopted by all 25 Lodges in the District. With the support of the Oldham District Team, the District Chairman Philip Price and our APGM, W. Bro Harold Woodward, 16 Charities/Beneficiaries were invited to Middleton Masonic Hall to receive their donations in person from the respective Worshipful Masters and representatives of the four Lodges.
		Despite heavy snowfall, over 100 people attended the event, which began with a wine reception and tour of the Lodge room. In his opening address, the Chairman of Middleton Masonic Hall gave an informative talk on how Freemasonry came to be established in Middleton on the site of the former tennis club. The four Lodges then made their presentations, commencing with Langley Lodge as the oldest, followed by Tonge Hall Lodge, Horton Lodge and Old Elizabethans Lodge. Each of the Lodge Masters/representatives took the opportunity to impart some of the history of their Lodge and confirm their place as a contributor to national and local charities.
		The recipients of the donations were equally enthusiastic to use the occasion to convey not only their appreciation, but also to demonstrate the commitment they have to their organisation. It was particularly useful for all present to gain a better understanding of the work each of the charities and organisations undertook, with some of the presentations bringing emotions to the fore. In all, sixteen beneficiaries received donations including Long Street Methodist Church; St Gabriel's Church Stained Glass appeal; Wigan & Leigh Hospice; Middleton Talking Newspaper, The Masonic Fellowship; Christies; Marie Curie Cancer Care; North Manchester Talking Newspaper; British Heart Foundation; Stewart Towler Bursary Fund; Eddie Malone Memorial Fund (deprived children); Guide Dogs for the Blind; Broughton House (home for disabled servicemen); Macmillan Nurses; Weston Spirit; SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen Families Association).
		David Dunn, Oldham District Charity Steward explained the role of the Charity Stewards working throughout the District and reinforced the desire of Freemasons to make a direct connection with the community. A closing address by our APGM, W Bro Harold Woodward, summed up the feeling of pride represented by Charities and Lodges present: “Where there is a need there are those who care sufficiently to respond and make a difference. Seeking no formal recognition, they are content that others are helped to enjoy a better quality of life. You are the unsung heroes/heroines of our society; some might even be described as angels in human form.
		Charity is rooted in unselfish love for others. Your commitment and dedication to your Charity is both a challenge and inspiration to us all. You have truly enriched our lives through sharing this evening with us. We clearly have similar values in life: •  to demonstrate love and give support in a practical way to those who are in any way disadvantaged; •  to conduct our lives in such a manner as to emphasise the importance of and commitment to our moral, family, community, civic and Church duties and responsibilities: to strive to make ourselves better citizens; •  to replace evil with good and to make good people better people.

We have a similar ‘target audience'. Financial support is but one indicator of our commitment to your Charity. We must consider how we might work more collaboratively in our ‘outreach' activities. We must build on the contacts and new friendships that have been made this evening. This evening is not an end in itself; it represents a new beginning. Working together in partnership, we can make a real difference.

As Freemasons, we salute you for being people of courage and vision. The world is indeed a better place because of you and for what you do.”

Hailed as a tremendous success, it is intended that the Oldham District will provide the necessary support to all Lodges in the District to repeat the event at Middleton and Shaw.

Reginald Wood celebrates 60 years in freemasonry

On 29 th September 2005, WBro Reginald H Wood, PProvJGW, celebrated his 100th birthday. On that occasion, he was visited by the RWPGM, Paul J E Rink, OBE and H Alan J Garnett, ProvGSec.

As if such a milestone was not enough, Reginald celebrated his personal 60 th in Craft Freemasonry on 15 th March 2006 and on this occasion, he was visited by Harold Woodward APGM along with members of the Lodge of United Companions.

He was Initiated in the former Lodge of Reverence, No 4956, on 15 March 1946 and was Installed as its WM on 21 January 1954. Thirty years later, on 14 January 1984, he became the WM of the Lodge for the second time. He was one of the 14 Founder members of the Lodge of United Companions, No 6895; a Lodge which was Consecrated on 15 December 1949 and of which Reginald is now an Honorary member.

Reginald is a remarkable man having played golf until the age of 90 years and tended his allotments until the age of 98 years. He currently resides in a Nursing Home in Sale .

The first attached photograph shows Harold Woodward, APGM, presenting Reginald with his Illuminated Certificate in recognition of his 60 years in Craft Masonry.

The second attached photograph includes, from left to right, Donald Hopwood [Secretary of the Lodge of United Companions] and David Hewitt [Assistant DC of the Lodge of United Companions] together with Reginald Wood and Harold Woodward.

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