News from Oldham District

Thornham Lodge 2279 Closure

It was with great sadness that Thornham Lodge held its last meeting on Friday 26th February 2010 after 121 years. The lodge was consecrated on the 28th November 1888 and was the daughter Lodge of Albert 854.
The Lodge was opened in due form at 6.40pm by the Worshipful Master WBro Dean Wild, PProvJGD, after which the Secretary, WBro Jack Ball (Jnr), PProvJGD, read a dispensation from the Provincial Grand Master to hold a special meeting to allow the Lodge to hand in its Warrant.

The minutes of the previous meeting, which had been circulated were confirmed by the Master. Wardens and brethren. The minutes explained the decision to hand in their Warrant.

The Lodge received WBro Alex McLaren, APGM, and his Delegation, accompanied by WBro Philip Price, District Chairman, in due form who were welcomed enthusiastically. The Director of Ceremonies, WBro Rodney Wild, asked the brethren to give honours.

The Almoner, WBro Tommy Charlton, PProvJGD, gave an update on the well being of the Lodge widows and informed the brethren that the ladies had been invited to Thornham Lodge’s last social evening, so that the members could say their farewells, before the ladies welfare was transferred to several other Lodges. After this Alms were collected.

Thornham Lodge members with WBro Alex McLaren, APFM

WBro Alex McLaren occupied the Master's chair and read out an in-depth history of the Lodge which the brethren found to be very informative. We were informed that the Lodge held its first meeting on the 31st December 1888, at the Halfway House public house in the district of Thornham, hence the name Thornham Lodge. After holding their meetings in several venues it was decided unanimously in January 1899, to relocate to the purpose built Union Club Freemasons' Hall in Oldham where the Lodge continued for many years until 2004 when the Union Club closed its doors for the final time. Thornham Lodge then relocated to Middleton Masonic Hall where five happy years were enjoyed before they sadly, unanimously, decided to close the Lodge due to a fall in membership.

WBro Ross Wild PM, amused the brethren with lots of funny anecdotes that had occurred during ceremonies throughout the years.

WBro Alex McLaren then asked the Lodge Brethren to form a semicircle facing east, he congratulated each member and presented them with their clearance certificates, after which the Worshipful Master handed over the Warrants of the Lodge to WBro Alex McLaren.

The Worshipful Master, WBro Dean Wild, re-occupied the Chair and presented cheques for various charities to WBro McLaren. Just before the lodge was closed WBro McLaren read a eulogy to the brethren:

With the closing of the Volume and the closing of the door,
Think not of what has ended, but of what has gone before.
Remember all the worthy men who as Entered ‘prentice came,
And who developed love and skill and worked in friendship’s name.

Recall all those who shared this place, but now who are at rest;
Think not a friendship ended, but more a lifetime blessed.
Reflect upon a special bond that transcends the gold and braid;
of brotherly love, relief and truth --- and the friendships that it made.

When you again take up the tools that for now you put aside;
Think not their work has ended, but how they were applied.
Recall how you all grew as men and shared fraternal love;
the lessons from each other and the lessons from above.

With the striking of the gavels as the lights at last go dim;
Think not of what you leave behind, but what is left within.
For we must all bear witness, as this place we now depart,
that this Lodge will live forever in every Brother’s heart.

WBro McLaren then wished them all the best for the future. The Brethren of Thornham Lodge then retired in due Masonic Order, whilst the visiting brethren applauded.

Thornham Lodge members and visitors with the Assistant Provincial Grand Master

Oldham District Annual Widows Christmas Party

The annual widows Christmas party took place at the Middleton Masonic Hall on Tuesday the 15th December 2009. This year fifty nine Widows were chauffeured from home to the party and enjoyed a festive menu ably prepared & presented by the Hall Catering Staff.

The Provincial Grand Master RWBro Jack Price with his wife Dorothy were the guests of Honour for the evening.

The party began with a welcome from W.Bro David Dunn 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 proceedings and hoped that everyone would have a wonderful time.

This year the waiters for the evening were members of Werneth and Thornham Lodges who were dressed in Father Christmas suits to the great delight of the widows.

After the ladies enjoyed a sumptuous meal WBro David Dunn stood and said he hoped the ladies had enjoyed their meal which was received with applause.

He went on to explain to the ladies about the changes that had taken place within the district at the provincial grand lodge meeting held in November whereby WBro Harold Woodward had been promoted to Deputy Provincial Grand Master. He then read out an email sent to himself from Harold hoping that all the ladies have a wonderful party and a Merry Christmas. David then explained because of the promotion of Harold his job as APGM became vacant which was filled by WBro Alex McLaren, unfortunately Alex and his wife are not able to be with us this evening as he had booked a holiday which coincided with the party.

David explained that the Guest of honour this evening was our Provincial Grand Master WBro Jack Price who was last at the Christmas party some four years ago when he was the Deputy Grand Superintendent. David then asked Jack to propose a toast to the ladies.

Jack started his toast by recalling his childhood and said “when he was a little boy he felt privileged to have met one Farther Christmas whereas you ladies have got eight to talk to”. He said “the widows are very precious and have been supporters of Freemasonry of this wonderful province and it was a great pleasure to see you all”. He asked all on the top table to rise and toast the ladies, which was received with applause.

W.Bro Philip Price said the response for the ladies would have normally be done by his boss WBro Alex McLaren but due to holiday commitments he was unable to attend, however, Alex had asked him to respond and pass on his festive wishes to the ladies. Philip then asked the ladies to recall the many happy times spent at Masonic gatherings and all the long preparations involved by them in getting ready, in stark contrast to the last minute rush of the men folk who needed a button sewing on or a stain removed from their jackets done at a previous installation. These precious moments should not be forgotten but added to memories still being collected on events such as today which demonstrates how much a part of freemasonry the ladies still are.

Philip concluded his response by thanking everyone for their efforts in making this evening such a success.

David Dunn then introduced the main entertainer for the evening, a gentleman called Ray Dean, who serenaded everyone with his renditions of some of Tom Jones hits.

Rays entertainment was in two parts, and at the interval the table prizes were drawn and additional entertainment was provided by the Grand Daughter of one of the Christmas waiters. The young lady, Taylor Dee, was a fifteen years old and has been singing semi professionally for just over twelve months.

To bring the evening to a close the Farther Christmases sang “We wish you a Merry Christmas” to the ladies, then Ray Dean was asked to sing ‘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. (See pictures) Finally W.Bro. David Dunn thanked the ladies for coming, hoped they had a wonderful time, and hoped to see them next year wishing them a safe journey home

Broadhead Lodge Closure

It was with great sadness that Broadhead Lodge held It’s last meeting on Monday 14th December after 26years.

WBro Jackson and members of Broadhead Lodge

The Lodge was opened in due form at 6.40pm by the Worshipful Master WBro Roger Norris PJGD after which the secretary WBro Ian Ward PProvJGD read a dispensation from the Provincial Grand Master to hold a special meeting to allow the lodge to hand in it’s Warrant.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read, which explained the decision to hand in their Warrant after which the Worshipful Master asked one of the founder members, W.Bro Harold Beswick, to read a brief history of the lodge.

WBro Beswick said the lodge was consecrated on the 29th September 1983. It has been existence for 26yrs and 76 days during which time twenty eight brethren have joined freemasonry. The first meeting was held at the Masonic Hall, Bridge Street, Manchester, but transferred to Shaw Masonic Hall twenty two years ago. He explained that during the lodges life it has had many ups and downs and unfortunately during the past three years the average attendance was ten active members. He went on to say that this was a sad day for the Lodge but is was inevitable due to the fact that the lodge had been unable to attract new membership.

The Worshipful Master thanked WBro Harold Beswick for the lodge’s brief history, and asked him to accept a gift from the lodge members as a thank you for the dedication and support he had given the lodge from its conception twenty eight years ago. WBro Beswick thanked the lodge on behalf of not only himself but all the founder members who had formed the lodge.

The Worshipful Master, on behalf of the almoner, explained that the lodge widows had been adopted by The Crompton Lodge 8879 based at the Shaw Masonic Hall.

WBro Hedley Jackson PAPGM, as the representative for RWBro Jack Price PGM, accepted the surrendered Warrant from the Worshipful Master WBro Roger Norris. WBro Jackson said he accepted it with sadness as it was himself who encouraged the lodge to move to Shaw from Bridge Street twenty two years ago.

After receiving the warrant WBro Jackson asked the brethren of Broadhead lodge to form a semi circle within the Lodge room he then delivered a eulogy to the members and presented them with their clearance certificates.

Whilst the Lodge remained open the visiting brethren formed two lines, one in the North and one in South. The Brethren of Broadhead lodge then paraded behind WBro Jackson between the two lines whilst the visitors sang the Closing Ode.

The Chadderton Football Club supports under 7’s and yearly increments up to the age of 16 both boys and girls teams. Many of the teams have been very successful over the years and have won many trophies and awards, however, their club house was a dilapidated brick building (below,left) which store the goal posts and nets. The children’s parents got together and formed a committee to examine the possibility of building a new club house (below, right) which could have a store room, changing rooms for home and away teams together with toilet and kitchen facilities.

After the committee had many fund raising events, beg and borrowed, had a buy a brick scheme, and persuading many local companies to support them to raise fund for the basic material of the building and one of the parents who was a builder agreed to erect the building and await payment of the building costs when funds where available. They ended up with a wonderful club house building (see picture).

At this state their funds supported by parent’s pockets ran dry and they asked the local newspaper the Oldham Advertiser to put an article in the paper asking for a sponsor to furnish the inside of the building. The article was brought to the attention of the Oldham District freemasons (Chaired by Philip Price) who were looking for a project to support the local community.

Discussions took place with the football committee, (who incidentally were amazed that we wanted to help freely and without gain), to complete the furbishment of the inside of the building.
W.Bro David Dunn District charity steward together with the project leader W.Bro Edwin Baines submitted an application to E.L.M.C for funds to complete the project. Provincial Grand Lodge agreed to the application and £7,000 was granted.
W.Bro Baines approached many brethren to assist him in the project which consisted of manufacturing changing room benches, door frames, architrave and skirting etc, installation of three toilet suites, ladies gents and invalidity together hot and cold water pipe work and toilets half tiled, fitting of doors to all rooms, and the assemble of a kitchen units, worktops, sink and hot and cold water system, also supply cooker and fridge.

The project started in August and was completed six weeks later to the extreme delight to the football club committee. The following pictures show the finished room which all started with just bare walls. The committee have informed us that it is hoped that the footballer Paul Scholes will open the building during the football season.
W.Bro Baines wishes to thank W.Bro Philip Price (district chairman), W.Bro David Dunn (District Charity Steward), W.Bro Les Tailor (District Mentor), W.Bro Peter Clegg (District Secretary), W.Bro Jim Clegg and W.Bro John LeBrun (District Assistant Communications Officer) for the assistance they gave in completing the project.

The Summer Party started with a magnificence attendance of over one hundred and forty brethren and guests with good food, great entertainment and of course convivial company, what more could one ask. (Photos below show the audience arriving).

The organisation by Ken Turner (shown left) and the rest of the district team was flawless, even to the point of the Lancashire Fusiliers Band playing in doors due to the inclement weather. The event is one of the few opportunities for members of Shaw and Middleton Masonic Halls to enjoy each others company on a large scale and was well represented by both halls.

The afternoon started with Ken Turner introducing the afternoons proceedings followed with the Barbeque cooked and served by lodge members and the district team which was universally well received, The selection of desserts was enough to wreck the diets of all but the strongest willed and there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth as various Gateaux was reluctantly consumed, it was even worse when they went back to try the chocolate cake.

It was then time for the entertainment to start. In keeping with the intention of raising money for local charities raffle tickets were sold and the entertainment began with the Lancashire Fusiliers playing many classical, popular music. The photo above (right) is the conductor and the photos below show the members of the band.

Following the band the audience was treated to the Crystal Choir a group of some 21 Ladies who obviously enjoyed entertaining appreciative audiences with their ballads and catchy songs.

After a short intermission it was the bands turn again with a wonderful array of marching and ceremonial music with some cheeky compilation pieces where there was some 30 music pieces played. After their performance the audience gave rapacious applause and didn’t want them to finish but finish they must.

You would have thought the entertainment could not get better until Ken Turner introduced Voci Dolci two beautiful opera singers (below) accompanied by an equally beautiful pianist. They treated us to many pieces of opera as individual soloists or as a duet.

It only remained for Ken to thank everyone and announce that about £1500 had been raised. He handed the mike the District Chairman Philip Price (shown above, right) who said “theses type of functions doesn’t just happen a many people put a lot of effort in to make it a success and he wished to thank all those concerned and especially to all who attended. He finished by wishing everyone a safe journey home”

WBro Ian Wolstencroft, PProvAGDC, a member of Stanley Lodge, No.2917, had a spell in hospital last year with prostate cancer where he received wonderful care and attention.

June Tunstall, one of the senior staff (who looked after him), told him she was entering a sponsored climb known as the Snowdonia 500 challenge, to raise funds for Prostate Cancer Research. To help, he took a sponsor form from her and raised £700 - the majority of the sponsorship money came from Stanley Lodge 2917, Unity Chapter 2341 and Knights Templar Preceptory, St George’s - he is a member of all three! He also raised sponsorship monies from my family and ex round table friends.

On presenting June with the £700 she informed Ian that her original target was £1000 but with the help of the Craft she was able to double her target. June completed the Snowdonia 500 challenge and raised £1300.

This year’s Inter-Hall bowls competition was held at Coalshaw Green Park on Sunday the 12th July. As usual Barbara Wilson, MBE, and her ‘Friends of the Park’ were to host the barbeque and had arranged tables and chairs for spectators to watch the competition.

The competition commenced at 1pm and teams from Middleton and Shaw Masonic Halls played a number of qualifying rounds resulting in one team from each Hall being in the final.
The final teams were Colin Thompson and Thomas Jardine, representing Shaw, and Howard Munton and Nigel Gibson, representing Middleton. Due to the inclement weather the final had to be played just two ‘ends’ each player; this resulted in a final score of 8 – 4 in favour of the Shaw Team.

At the end of the competition The District Chairman, Philip Price, thanked the competitors and all their supporters for their attendance and contribution to a wonderful afternoon. The District Chairman thanked also the Brethren of Imperial George Lodge and Old Elizabethan Lodge for providing the food for the barbeque.

The Oldham District has long been supporting Barbara Wilson in the good works that she and the ‘Friends’ carry out at the Park. The proceeds of the event were donated to Barbara and the ‘Friends’ to help continue those good works and in appreciation of their hard work in making the occasion such a success.

Donald Mellor Ferguson’s 50th birthday celebration on Tuesday the 12th May 2009

The Worshipful Master Michael Roche welcomed WBro Harold Woodward the APGM to Old Elizabethans Lodge and offered him the gavel. Harold Woodward accepted the gavel on this special occasion to celebrate Donald Mellor Ferguson, PProvJGW 50th Birthday in freemasonry.

WBro Woodward addressed the brethren by saying today is the present: the end of the past and the beginning of the future. We celebrate the past 40+ years for the Lodge; and 50 years for Donald Mellor Ferguson.
Brethren, you represent the past, the present and the future of Freemasonry in general and of this Lodge in particular. You have the responsibility of ensuring both the virtue of continuity and the continuity of virtue. That responsibility requires a lifetime commitment. You do not have the luxury of doing nothing or of leaving it for others to do. Defining the future of our Order is the responsibility of each one of us. Failure is not an option.
Freemasonry offers an approach to life that is inexhaustible in interest, lifelong in appeal and enables and inspires its members. What would your life be like without Freemasonry? What would Freemasonry be like without you?
Today we celebrate Donald Mellor Ferguson a person who has embraced all that freemasonry has to offer since his initiation into freemasonry in 1959

At this point WBro Woodward asked WBro Martin Roche PProvDepGDC to escort Donald Mellor Ferguson to a seat in the centre of the lodge.

With regard to the past WBro Woodward called on the District Secretary WBro: Peter Clegg to read an extract from the minutes of Mellor Lodge No.1774 held in the Lodge Room, Denmark Hotel, Lloyd Street North, Manchester, on Tuesday, 28th April 1959 where Donald Mellor Ferguson was initiated into freemasonry.

WBro Woodward said “Brethren we celebrate the golden jubilee of Donald Mellor Ferguson. In 1959 other things where happening and I call on the district chairman WBro Philip Price to reflect on those years.”
He quoted in 1959, (world) Fidel Castro proclaims a new government in Cuba, The Senate approves statehood for Hawaii, (sport) Henry Cooper beats Brian London, Peter May's cricket team surrenders the Ashes when Australia beat England by 10 wickets, (transport) London transport unveils details of a £50 million Victoria tube from Victoria to Walthamstow, (health) A British Medical Association booklet on marriage is withdrawn because of a passage discussing whether chastity is outdated, (today) on the 28th Mr. Donald Mellor Ferguson, aged 30 years, is Initiated into Freemasonry in Mellor Lodge, No 1774.

WBro Woodward went on to say that we move towards the future and on Saturday 12th December 1970 Bro Donald Mellor Ferguson had the privileged of being installed into the chair of King Solomon at Mellor Lodge No.1774 by WBro Wm. J. Barrett Installing Master.

WBro Woodward called on WBro Gordon Lee to tell us about the man our brother Donald.
“Donald was born 5th Nov 1928 in Lord Street and Educated at Grecian Street and Broughton Secondary Modern School. On leaving school worked at City & Salford Treasury Department. Left and went to College of Marine Radio and Communications and passed out as a Junior Radio Officer in the Merchant Navy.
Then on the SS Cohistan which sailed from Salford Docks 1944 for the East and was two an half years on a supply ship with the 14th Army in Burma.
After the atomic bomb was dropped he was sent to Singapore to pick up British Prisoners on the River Kwai and later taking Japanese prisoners of war through India for repatriation.
Back in England in 1946 he went back to college and passed out as Chief Radio Officer at Liver Building in Liverpool.
Donald first met Margery his wife when she was 12 years old and they both lived in the same street Yew Street, Broughton. They were bombed out in the 1940 Blitz and re-housed in St Johns Church Hall.
In 1949 Donald resigned from the Merchant Navy and married Margery at St Johns Church after which he went into business in Heath Street Cheetham Hill, and also at NewBailey Street Salford.
When Heath Street was demolished they bought a house in higher Blackley and had a new shop built in Vaskaville House in New Bailey Street Salford a short walk from the Masonic Temple in Bridge Street.-
Donald retired in 1989 and moved to Wigan where after 20 years where he still resides today.
It was with great sadness that after 59 years of marriage Margery died of Breast Cancer in April 2008.
At the end of his oration WBro Lee presented Donald with a framed poem about his life in freemasonry

WBro Woodward asked WBro Price to present Donald with a 50 year pin. WBro Price explained that 10 years ago he presented Fredrick Arthur McLaren Peirce with a 50 year pin and on 22 April he presented him with a 60 year pin and it was Fredrick Arthur McLaren Peirce express wish that his 50th pin be presented to Donald Mellor Ferguson which was duly done with great applause by the brethren.
WBro Woodward then presented Donald Mellor Ferguson with a letter on behalf of the Provincial Grand Master WBro Jack Price and an Illuminated Certificate as a token of appreciation and esteem.
After the ceremony Donald Mellor Ferguson accompanied WBro Woodward APGM on leaving the lodge and received a standing applause by all the brethren in the lodge.

WBro Harold Woodward, PSGD, APGM with WBro Donald Mellor Ferguson and his brother, Bro. Gordon Ferguson

From left to right - Bro Gordon Ferguson, WBro Martin Roche - PProvDepGDC
WBro. Philip Price - PAGDC District Chairman WBro. Peter Clegg - PProvGSuptWks District Secretary
WBro. Harold Woodward - PSGD APGM, WBro. Donald Mellor Ferguson (birthday boy) WBro. Stanley Bibby (friend) WBro. Gordon Lee (friend) W.Bro Jack Griffith (friend)

FREDERICK ARTHUR McLAREN PEIRCE PProvJGW celebrates 60 years in freemasonry on 22nd April at Middleton Masonic Hall

Address to the Brethren by WBro Harold Woodward PSGD APGM

We celebrate the past [89+ years for the Langley Lodge ; 60 years for Frederick Arthur McLaren Peirce and 40 years+ for Old Elizabethans' Lodge]; give thanks for today and cheerfully embrace the future with all its challenges and opportunities with a hope that combines passion and confidence.

Brethren, you represent the past, the present and the future of Freemasonry in general and of your own Lodge in particular. You have the responsibility of ensuring both the virtue of continuity and the continuity of virtue. That responsibility requires a lifetime commitment. You do not have the luxury of doing nothing or of leaving it for others to do.

As we contemplate our future, and our inevitable destiny, remember that what we leave behind is not engraved on tablets of stone but that it is enshrined in the lives of others.

In making a real difference / giving `added-value' to the lives of others; in making good men into better men; in helping each other to understand the purpose of this our mortal existence in the context of eternity : I call upon you to play your full part in making that real difference in your own life and that of others. There are no `opt-out' clauses in any of our obligations taken as Freemasons.

Let us so conduct ourselves that the world may acknowledge `how good and pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together in unity'.

Philip Price reflection on the past (pictured below) - IT HAPPENED IN 1949 [January — June]

1st January. The war that India and Pakistan have been fighting over Kashmir ends at midnight .

1st February UK: The WRAF and WRAC are incorporated into Britain's armed forces.

21st March. London Marches are banned in London for three months after clashes between communists and Mosleyites.

2ndApril UK Coloured lights, floodlighting and neon signs are switched on as a 10 year-old ban is lifted.

7th April Mr Frederick Arthur McLaren Peirce is Initiated into Freemasonry in the Langley Lodge, No 3989.

25th June New York Scientists say that the anti-tuberculosis drug, Neomycin, has been fully tested on animals.

28th June UK Harrow is Britain's most expensive public school with annual fees of £315.

IT HAPPENED IN SEPTEMBER 1913 - `We might have finished with the past but the past hasn't finished with us.'

10th Mexico 350 US citizens are reported held captive since President Wilson announced Mexican boycott.

W.Bro. Peirce was born on the 21st September 1913 and sadly neglected by his mother so that his father, who was serving in the army, took him and his brother away to be brought up by their grandparents in Wallasey.

When he was seven he went back to Manchester and was taught at Domett Junior School in Blackley where he won a scholarship to Stand Grammar School . His father could not afford the bus fare to Stand so his scholarship was transferred to Middleton Grammar School where he was a pupil from 1924 to 1928.

On leaving school he worked as an office boy to a firm of accountants and later worked for Manchester Proofing Company. He became the Company Secretary and served the firm for 30years from 1931 until 1961. In 1943 the chimney of the factory came down in a storm and narrowly missed Arthur in his office but, sadly, two workers were killed when the chimney came down on the boiler house and eight men were injured.

The company came to an end when the Government bought the company as part of the rationalization programme in the textile proofing industry. Arthur was the last person out of the factory and had the task of seeing the machinery being broken up. It was the end of an era and shortly after the building was demolished.

After that Arthur got a job with Mandleburgs Rubber proofers and he became the Company Secretary. Norman Grimshaw, who was a member of Langley Lodge, bought Mandleburgs which became Vitafoam and Arthur became the Financial Director of two companies which later became British Vita. British Vita was taken over and the new company abolished all directors and Arthur ended up as the pension fund accountant.

Menengitis as a child left Arthur with a mastoid ear and other medical problems which excluded him from war service but his work with societies which raised funds for sending parcels to prisoners of war in Germany , the Spitfire fund, National Savings and other national campaigns brought him into contact with many Freemasons who encouraged him to join the Craft. After waiting five years he was initiated into Langley Lodge No.3989 on the 7th April 1949 .

He became the Worshipful Master in 1968 and was well supported by his dear wife Lillian who passed away in 1996. He later served as the Lodge Secretary for four years. He also became a Justice of the Peace and was highly regarded by the Bench.

In 1968 Arthur was a founder of a new Lodge and served on the preparation of it many months before. It was the Old Elizabethan's Lodge No.8253 based upon the former pupils of the school which Arthur attended. He is the only remaining founder to be alive today.

He served the Lodge well. Firstly as its Master and later as its Secretary which office he held for 15 years. Then he served as its Treasurer for another 15 years. Seldom was he out of office. It seemed that at every Lodge meeting he could be seen with a clip board in his hand, collecting this and doing that. He was a tower of strength to his Lodge and masonry in general.

As his friend and brother I can only say that my association with him has brought me profound pleasure and I hope that he has many years to come and enjoy the brotherhood, so go and visit him and say hello to a fine gentleman and first-class mason.

Ladies and Brethren, I will take the opportunity to welcome you all on this special occasion but extend particular welcome to the APGM and Phyllis. The main purpose of the evening is to enjoy ourselves in each others company with minimum of formalities; however, this evening gives me a unique opportunity to thank all the masters in their respective years of office in the presence of their ladies for all they have done for me as District Chairman and for their lodges.

I thank the brethren for their service and leadership but recognise that behind every good man stands an even better woman. Thank you for your past support to district, we shone with coalshaw green park refurbishment and Charity Giving nights. If there is any measure to take back to your lodges it is the opportunity to shine again as there is a new challenge of work to be done at Chadderton Park football club using the monies raised within our district by you and our fellow brethren allowing us once again make a difference to the lives in our community.

Events like these don’t just happen so thanks to the organising team. There seems a never ending list of thanks, most importantly thank you for who you are and being here to share those gifts with us tonight.
Enjoy !

Worshipful Brethren: Masters in Office. It is the highest honour that your Lodge can bestow on you. It requires commitment, dedication and hard work. I do hope that it will give / has given you enjoyment, pleasure and satisfaction. Each of you represents a special and much valued type of Mason.

Tonight gives me the opportunity of expressing my appreciation and thanks for the work you undertake on behalf of Freemasonry in general and on behalf of your own Lodge in particular.
Accept the challenge and opportunity of being supporters and encouragers of each other.

Consider the benefits of being part of the `Masters Circuit' at your Installation: "The Lodge is now under your control." Conveniently, or otherwise, no-one thought to mention that you would have to contend with the DC, the Secretary, the Provincial Officers and the Lady within your life [arguably the most influential of all].

Freemasonry has the opportunity, as never before, of demonstrating that it is an essential and integral part of the community. We must make Freemasonry `family friendly', `people friendly' and `community friendly' if we are to be welcomed and taken seriously.

Identify what we need to do better or differently and then do it: make it happen. "Do it now." Adopting a positive attitude means changing `we can't; we don't; we won't' into `we can; we do; we will'. In making it happen, [giving `added-value' to the lives of others] the most important partnership is you and your family: the support of your family is essential.
It is imperative that we regularly carry out a review of what we consider to be the priorities in our life a process that identifies the non-essentials and clears out the debris.

Yesterday is history; tomorrow is the future; today is the present - a gift from TGAOTU. We must treasure it and learn to use it wisely. The world around us is on a catastrophic collision course with evil forces. Our numbers might be falling, but working together with our families and in partnership with the community, we represent a major influence for good. Seize the opportunity and "Do it now."
The more you give, the more you get.
The more you laugh, the less you fret.
The more you do unselfishly
The more you live abundantly.
The more of everything you share
The more you'll always have to spare.
The more you love, the more you'll find
That life is good and friends are kind.
For only what we give away Enriches us from day to day.

The lodge was opened in due form and received Harold Woodward APGM accompanied by the Oldham District Representatives. Harold Woodward was then offered the gavel and chair of the lodge which he dually accepted. He welcomed all to the meeting to celebrate W.Bro Jack Stant’s 50th Masonic Birthday and asked the brethren to take note that - “Today is the present: the end of the past and the beginning of the future”.

The acting ProvDepGDC WBro Duncan M Ferguson, PProvJGW, accompanied Bro Jack to a seat in the centre of the Lodge. WBro. Philip Price then rose and spoke of the things that happened in 1959:

January
The rebel leader Fidel Castro proclaims a new government for Cuba.
Henry Cooper beats Brian London to become British Empire heavy-weight boxing champion.

February
London Transport unveils details of a £50 million Victoria tube from Victoria to Waltham stow.
The Treasury drops all borrowing controls, ending the credit squeeze.
Adelaide: Peter May's cricket team surrenders the Ashes when Australia beat England by 10 wickets: establishing a three-nil lead in the five match series.

March
UK : A BMA booklet on marriage is withdrawn because of a passage discussing whether chastity is outdated.
London : The government unveils plans for a new road expansion scheme, estimated to cost £140 million annually.
19th March Mr. Jack Stant, aged 25 years, is Initiated into Freemasonry in the Lodge of United Companions, No 6895.

Harold Woodward then said, remember my opening comments, today is the present: the end of the past and the beginning of the future. We celebrate the past 60+ years for the Lodge; 50 years for Jack Stant and 6 months for William McConnell the newest member of the lodge. Brethren, you represent the past, the present and the future of Freemasonry in general and of this Lodge in particular. You have the responsibility of ensuring both the virtue of continuity and the continuity of virtue. That responsibility requires a lifetime commitment. You do not have the luxury of doing nothing or of leaving it for others to do.

Freemasonry offers an approach to life that is inexhaustible in interest, lifelong in appeal and enables and inspires its members. In a fractured world, Freemasonry can help make sense out of so much in life that appears senseless: it provides stability, hope and comfort in a constantly changing world and shifting values. As we contemplate our future, and our inevitable destiny, remember that what we leave behind is not engraved on tablets of stone but that it is enshrined in the lives of others. In making a real difference / giving `added-value' to the lives of others; in making good men into better men; in helping each other to understand the purpose of this our mortal existence in the context of eternity : I call upon you to play your full part in making that real difference in your own life and that of others. There are no `opt-out' clauses in any of our obligations taken as Freemasons.

Let us ensure that our work is such that we need not be ashamed of that which we accomplish in the name of Freemasonry. In a world of shifting values let us remain true to the fundamental principles of our Order. Let us so conduct ourselves that the world may acknowledge `how good and pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together in unity'.

W.Bro Harold Woodward then presented W.Bro Stant with a letter and Certificate sent from the Provincial Grand Master Bro Jack Price. On receiving his certificate the brethren of the lodge gave enthusiastic applause. W.Bro Stant epitomizes all that I have said and has supported the lodge without question throughout the first 50 years of his Masonic career congratulations. Harold Woodward then presented W.Bro Jack Stant with a letter and Certificate sent from the Provincial Grand Master of East Lancashire W.Bro Jack Price.

W.Bro Briggs, chairman of Middleton Masonic Hall welcomed all and in particular to this The Parkfield Room. The room was opened
just over 2 years ago and has made a huge difference to the club, acting, as it does, as a Lodge and Practise Room by night and a conference facility by day. Since it's completion we have been able to accommodate more Lodges and there has been a great increase in daytime business.

This room is also one of the rooms which is licensed for Civil Marriages and ceremonies and it is in connection with that that today is mostly about.

When Friendship Mark Lodge kindly offered to sponsor the building of a Pagoda to enhance the Wedding Venue facilities we gratefully accepted. Today the building phase of the project is complete, however, the horticultural and landscaping has yet to be finished.

I would now thank those who have done the work, our resident Project Manager W.Bro Brian Callan and his wife, Christine for carrying out all the horticultural work, W.Bro Alan Kenyon for the Pagoda Construction.

Today marks the official opening and I am delighted to welcome members of Friendship Mark Lodge and partners led by their Worshipful Master Bob Caserta and Maria.

It is a Particular pleasure to welcome the RWPGM of the Mark Province of East Lancashire W.Bro Keith Schofield. W.Bro Schofield has kindly found time in his busy schedule to perform the opening ceremony and is supported by APGM Harold Woodward and his wife Phyllis, W.Bro David Anderson, DPGM, W.Bro. Reginald Newsome APGM and W.Bro. Stephen Holt APGM.

You will no doubt have become aware of the special relationship between our PGM (Keith) and the Dalai Lama? The Dalai Lama is the head of the Buddhist hierarchy in Tibet ; (Keith) is the head of Mark Masonry in East Lancashire . Both have a special interest in architecture: particularly in Pagodas. The Dalai Lama has requested a copy of the plans of the Middleton prototype Pagoda that features a keystone.

Today we celebrate the past; give thanks for the present and are filled with hope as we embrace and welcome the future; with all its challenges and opportunities.

Keith Schofield again has left his mark on his work; a workman that needs not be ashamed of that which he has accomplished. In every part of his life he has deservedly earned the highest level of respect. His is an exceedingly busy and demanding role; supported by a very special and gracious lady; Brenda, his wife and MD.

Thank you to the members of Friendship Mark Lodge for the generous gift of financial support. Thank you Keith for the gift of his time and unfailing brotherly love, your commitment to Masonry in general and to Mark Masonry in particular. Thank you Keith and Brenda for your presence, you have given a special ‘added value' to all that today represents.

W. Bro. David Dunn, District Charity Steward recently met with Mr Barry Hlyatt from Dr Kershaws to hand over a cheque for £2,243.00 provided by The Grand Charity.

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

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

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

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.

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.