News Stories - Preston Group of Masonic Lodges and Chapters

Group Bowling Competition - On Sunday 7th June 2009.......<More>

Chairman's Walk - On Sunday 10th May 2009..... <More>

Preston Masons honoured at Grand Lodge and Supreme Grand Chapter ........<More>

Spring Ball - another great night......<More>

Group Quiz - Royal Preston do the double! ....... <More>

PGM's visit to Ribble Lodge - In keeping with the tradition ....... <More>

Houghton Weavers in Concert - On Friday 15th May the well known folk group....... <More>

£2010 to 2010 - On Friday 20th March 2009.....<More>

The 149th Provincial Ball - Almost fifty ladies and brethren from the Preston Group.....<More>

The 18th Century comes to Preston - Lodge of Unanimity 113 hosted the demonstration of an 18th Century lodge meeting .......<More>

Valentine's Ball a great success Tickets sold like hot cakes for the Valentines Ball .........<More>

W Bro Linden Davies celebrates 50 years in Freemasonry in Ribble Lodge No 4558.........<More>

Preston Group Dinner 2009 The Group dinner at Ashlar house this year welcomed Rev. Harry E. Ross, Third Provincial Grand Principal, as its guest of honour.....<More>

A Truly Unique Occasion. In December 2008 attendees at the meeting of The Lodge of Concord No. 343 witnessed a truly unique event - a triple 50th Celebration for WBros Bryan Wolfenden, Gerald Maxwell Stott and John Greenwood Bramley....<More>

Preston Group Carol Service 2008. The 2008 Preston Group Annual Family Carol Service was again held at Broughton Parish Church.....<More>

PAST PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER vISITS PRESTON GUILD LODGE. Preston Guild Lodge welcomed a distinguished visitor indeed to its December Dining-in night. RWBro Colin Penty Wright, Past Provincial Grand Master......<More>

50th Anniversary Tribute to a Great Royal Arch Companion. Anyone attending the Celebration of 50 years in the Royal Arch for E.Comp.E.C. Dickson P.A.G.Sojr .....<More>

W. Bro. Dr. Bruce Cooper returns to Gibraltar after 66 years. Dr Bruce Cooper, 93 years old, Surgeon Lieutenant (Retired) Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve, returned to Gibraltar on the 15th October 2008.....<More>

JUST A PERFECT GOLF DAY The Provincial Golf Finals day was held at Swinton Park Golf Club in August this year where each Masonic Group is allowed to enter a team of 6 competitors.....<More>

SETANTIA SUNDAY LUNCH Setantia Lodge of Installed Masters no7755 held its annual Sunday Lunch on the 12th October...<More>

PAUL LYON'S FIFTIETH CELEBRATION. WBro. Paul Robert Lyons PPrGSuptWks was born in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire on 5th May 1930....<More>

PRESTON MASONIC HALL BALLROOM REFURBISHMENT Over the summer recess the ballroom has been refurbished, and is now available for weddings and other outside lets, as well as for Ladies’ Festivals, Socials and other Lodge functions....<More>

PRESTON MASONIC HALL ANNUAL MAY LONG WEEKEND TRIP 2008 DESTINATION VALKENBURG
With the end of April fast approaching and the first May Bank Holiday on the horizon, the thoughts of Preston Masons turn to the exciting prospect of another long weekend excursion......<more>

Spring Ball – a big “Thank You!”
On the 26th of April 2008 PMH Refurbishment Fund Committee held a Spring Ball at the Masonic Hall in Preston. The formal event was a great success, and organized as a non-profit evening to express the Committee’s thanks for the support received for their events over the year..... <more>

Duncan Hilton’s 60 years in Freemasonry
On the 7th of May, 2008 W.Bro. Thomas Duncan Hilton Celebrated 60 years in Freemasonry at a meeting of The Halcyon Lodge No. 6500.....<more>

BILL SEDDON - a Tribute to a tireless supporter of Freemasonry in Preston
On the 19th of May 2008 a tribute dinner was held at Preston Masonic Hall, to mark the occasion of W.Bro. Bill Seddon’s retirement as an Assistant Provincial Grand Master.....<more>

PRESTON GROUP BOWLING TOURNAMENT Sunday 8th June 2008
The Preston Group Bowling Tournament was held at Broughton & District Club......<more>

JUBILEE LODGE AND INGOL LODGE OF ST MARGARET BOWLING EVENING
On Friday 6th June 2008 Jubilee Lodge, and Ingol Lodge of St Margaret held their Inter-Lodge Bowling evening at Broughton & District Club......<more>

Sponsored C 2 C
Literally putting that extra effort into raising funds for the 2010 Festival, three Preston Members, Howard Linaker the Group Charity Steward, Geoff Saul, The Provincial Charity Steward’s ‘right hand man’, and Mark Dunn, Charity Steward Ingol Lodge of St. Margaret’s ..........<more>

Clifford Cornwell – 50 years a Freemason
Clifford Cornwell celebrated his 50 years in Freemasonry at a meeting of Ribbleton Lodge No 6386..........<more>

DONATION TO HEART BEAT
After a very enjoyable Ladies Night at the Preston Lodge of Sincerity it was agreed to split the proceeds.........<more>

“Big Screen” Race Night – another great success!
Punters were amazed at the size of the screen at the Race Night on the 2nd of February 2008........<more>

Preston Group Dinner 2008
Over 130 Freemasons attended the Preston Group Dinner on Tuesday the 22nd of January 2008..........<more>

John Wilkinson’s 50th Anniversary in Freemasonry
On the 10th of January 2008 W.Bro. John Wilkinson, celebrated 50 years in freemasonry at the meeting of the Lodge of Ingol St. Margaret.................<more>

News Archive - Recent items

News Archive - Page 2 (Older Stories)

News Archive - Page 3 (Older Stories part 2)

Older news items can be found on disk in the library at Ashlar House.

PRESTON GROUP MASONIC BOWLING TOURNAMENT Sunday June 7th 2009

“NEW NAME ON THE CUP”

The event was once again held at the popular Broughton & District Club, Whittingham Lane, Broughton. The weather was fine but quite breezy. The green was in excellent condition and quite fast running.
Although only 12 bowlers competed this year, we were delighted to have the support of numerous guests and spectators, including our Group Chairman Ian Greenwood and Vice Chairman Stan Rigby.
The usual excellent catering arrangements were provided by the club including bar facilities. A very successful raffle was also held on the day with numerous prizes kindly donated by participants and guests.
The tournament itself was divided into two competitive mini leagues, which provided enjoyable and amiable exercise for all involved.
The deserving winner of the Group Trophy along with the President’s prize was Mike Billinge of The Lodge of Concord. Mike had played to a good standard all afternoon, and rather surprisingly this was the very first time he had entered the competition.

"The eventual winner W. Bro. Mike Billinge playing his semi-final against W. Bro. Stan Rigby"

"The Group Masonic Bowling President, W.Bro. Gordon Payne and the Chairman, W.Bro. John Watson"

"Presentation to the runner-up W. Bro. John Medcalf"

"Presentation to the worthy winner, W. Bro. Mike Billinge"

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Chairman’s Walk - Sunday 10th May 2009.

On Sunday 10th May 2009, the Preston Group Chairman, W. Bro. Ian Greenwood, accompanied by eighteen brethren and ladies and one dog set off from Haslam Park car park on the annual Chairman’s Walk. The weather was kind being not too hot, but not wet, as we made our way led ably by Lucy the Lakeland Terrier via the Millennium Link of the Lancaster Canal to Salwick where we refreshed at the Smith’s Arms. After a sumptuous lunch we staggered back along the original canal from Lea Lane passing the Cottam Sports centre on the way, before we re-entered the park and returned to our start point. W. Bro. Ian then distributed certificates to the walkers just as the rain started and we departed home, tired but satisfied with our efforts - six miles walked, and over £1,000 for the 2010 Festival.

Among the walkers was W. Bro. Richard Johnson who had recently completed the Salt Lake City marathon for Lifelites, which is the children’s charity supported by the Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys, so our shorter effort was a good way of testing that his sore knees had recovered - his efforts to enlist W. Bro. Greenwood for next year’s event fell on very deaf ears! Richard, who is currently the Worshipful Master of Unanimity Lodge no. 113, asked the organisers for that race number, and they graciously granted his request. Richard raised over £400 plus Gift Aid for 2010, and over £500 for Lifelites again plus Gift Aid.

"The walkers at the start at Haslam Park Gates"

"A footbridge across the Millennium Link, on the route"

"W.Bro. Ian GreenWood with W. Bro. Richard Johnson who seems to be looking for divine help!"

"W.Bro. Richard Johnson at the finishing line of the Salt Lake City Marathon."

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Preston Masons honoured

Three members of the Preston Group have received appointments at the recent Investiture meetings of Grand Lodge and Supreme Grand Chapter. W. Bro. Stan Rigby, Vice Chairman of the Preston Group, received the rank of P.A.G.D.C. in Grand Lodge, whilst E. Comp. Peter Hadfield, who is Chairman of the Leyland Group, but still a member of Ribble Lodge, and E. Comp. Don Richardson, both received the rank of P.G.Std.B in Supreme Grand Chapter.

"W.BRo. Stan Rigby, P.A.G.D.C., Vice Chairman of the Preston Group of Lodges"

"E. Comp. Don Richardson, P.G.Std.B. and E. Comp. Peter Hadfield, P.G.Stb B."

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Spring Ball 2009 – Another Great Night

2009’s Spring Ball at Preston Masonic Hall took place on the 18th of April. The evening, enjoyed by 128 revellers, proved to be yet another success for the Refurbishment Fund and the Preston Masters. After an excellent meal from our chef Alistair Godfrey we danced the night away to the sounds of the ‘50s and ‘60s courtesy of live band The Fabulous All Stars.
The only interruption to the music was the drawing of the raffle by Preston Masters representative Peter Sorsby – the raffle raised over £250 for charity. At the end of the evening Preston Group chairman Ian Greenwood expressed his thanks to everyone for their support of the event, and to the organisers for a splendid night.

"The crowded dance floor"

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Group Quiz - Royal Preston do the double!

Royal Preston team under the leadership of W.Bro Stuart Elliott won the Group Quiz Trophy for a second year running. Second place was awarded to one of the two Lodge of Endeavour Teams, lead by W.Bro. Donald Stephenson, and third prize (only 1/2 a mark behind) was awarded to "Tom's Team" form Lodge of Unanimity. The prizes of £50, £20 and £10 were all returned from the three prize-winners to support the charity work of the Preston Masters during 2009 - On behalf of Preston Masters 2009, Thank You!

The Group Quiz is the traditional opportunity to distribute the remainder of charity funds raised by the Preston Masters of the previous year. The PMs of 2008 had presented some funds prior to the evening:

Small sums to Preston Group in order for them to assist future causes, to the Kitchen for accessories in the ballroom and some monies for event deposits.

At the 2008 duck race, (an afternoon of downpour surrounded by two glorious days last summer!), £750 was presented to SPACE, Pedders Lane, Preston - They provide a safe learning and communication environment for infants, toddlers and young children, providing padded safe environment for play and development and stimulation from sound, lights, bubble-tubes and textures. This set the "standard" of the charity cheques to be provided.

At the 2009 Group Quiz Night, over 90 people were there to see a further £750 was presented to Mrs. Paula McKee, a teacher from Pear Tree School in Kirkham - they provide schooling and life skills to children and young adults with different mental disabilities. Two representatives of Bradbury Scout Group, Leyland, were presented with £750 - this Group specialise in providing scouting experience to young people with mental and physical disabilities. Kevin Lonergan, Sight Advice Centre Manager of Galloway's Society for the Blind, Penwortham, received £500 on behalf of the Society with his other 5 teammates - The Society provides many forms of assistance, such as speaking books, and much needed comforting advice and support to those from the moment they are first told they are going blind.

At the earliest opportunity, £500 will be presented to the Northwest Air Ambulance (that operates out of Blackpool and provides essential paramedic trauma care for the region and is funded by charity). The presentation will be made on behalf of the Preston Masters 2008 by W.Bro Paul Bastow (Secretary) who worked with the Air Ambulance team.

In all, the 2008's Preston Masters distributed over £3750 from their work during their year.

Also at the Quiz Night, the Lodge of Concord No.343 marked Bro. John Sarti's second year as WM (a first for the lodge) and his Chairmanship of the Preston Masters 2008 in particular, by provided two cheques of £250 to "Galloway's" and the "Air Ambulance" so that all five local charities of the year were left on the level.

"Quizmaster W.Bro. Colin Askam and his lady wife Barbara, the Adjudicator"

"Deep concentration!"

"Presentation to the Scout Group"

"Presentation to Galloways"

"Presentation to Pear Tree School"

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Provincial Grand Master Visits Ribble Lodge

In keeping with the tradition of the Provincial Grand Master visiting his Wardens’ Lodges to acknowledge their contribution to the Province during their year of office, Provincial Grand Master Peter Hosker, accompanied by the Provincial Team, visited Ribble Lodge No. 4558 on the 25th of March 2009 to acknowledge the support of WBro. David Winder, Provincial Junior Grand Warden. Traditionally the visits have been made at the Installation meeting, but the Provincial Grand Master has taken a decision to make his visit on a normal Lodge night.

The theme of the evening was the Third Degree, a theme prompted by the recent Raising of Bro. George Vakalopoulos. The Third Degree Tracing Board was described by Bro. Gerald Gallery, Worshipful Master; the Working Tools by Bro. George Vakalopoulos, and an explanation of the Grand Lodge Certificate was given by Keith Dowley, Michael Cowsley, John Rimmer and Terry Turley. The Provincial Grand Master then presented the Certificate to Bro. Vakalopoulos. After the proceedings the Worshipful Master presented a donation of £200 to the Provincial Grand Master in aid of the 2010 Festival.

At the Festive Board W.Bro. Leon Tax, Assistant Provincial Grand Master proposed the toast to the PGM’s health, and in his response Peter Hosker paid tribute to the support he had received from David Winder, a tribute which was echoed by Gareth Jones, Provincial Senior Grand Warden in his response to the toast to the Provincial Officers.

"Pictured with the Provincial Grand Master are Provincial DC Mark Dimelow, Senior Warden Gareth Jones, Assistant PGM Leon Tax, David Winder and Preston Group Chairman Ian Greenwood."

"The Provincial Team with Preston Group Chairman Ian Greenwood."

"David with distinguished guests and, third from left, Ribble Lodge WM Gerald Gallery."

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Houghton Weavers

On Friday 15th May the well known folk group The Houghton Weavers will be playing in concert at the Masonic Hall, Saul Street, Preston. Tickets for the event are priced at £20 per person and include a two course meal prepared by our first class chef. Bookings can be made via the office on telephone number (01772) 252170 or mobile number 07961 924728.

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£2010 to 2010

On Friday 20th March 2009, following his Installation as thw Worshipful Master of the Lodge of Goodfellowship No. 5901, Bro. Stephen A. Nicholson, on behalf of the members of the Lodge, presented to W. Bro. Leon D. Tax, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, a cheque for the “2010 Festival” amounting to the magnificent sum of £2010.

"W.M. Bro. Stephen Nicholson presenting the cheque to the Worshipful Assistant Provincial Grand Master, watched by W.Bro. Bob Graham, the Preston Group Treasurer, and W.Bro. Howard Linaker, Group Charity Steward."

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149th Provincial Ball

On Friday 13th March a contingent of almost fifty brethren and ladies from the Preston Group attended the Provincial Ball at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool.

The new format seemed to work very well with an informal reception in the Spanish Hall, followed by dinner in the Empress Ballroom, then the Grand March back in the Spanish Hall before dancing until midnight to ‘Pyramid’ an excellent live group.

The format of this year’s event was changed substantially with the two acting Provincial Wardens playing their part in creating a more open and inclusive format for all masons to enjoy. What a good job they made of it, with almost eight hundred revellers enjoying the festivities - lets hope that next year’s event, which will mark one hundred and fifty years - is as good.

"Some of the Preston Group ladies and brethren"

"More of the Preston contingent"

"The Vice President of the Ball and his lady"

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The 18th Century comes to Preston

Lodge of Unanimity 113 hosted the demonstration of an 18th Century lodge meeting by members of Brigantes Lodge 9734 at their meeting on 2nd March 2009. In attendance were the APrGM Leon Tax, and Group Chairman Ian Greenwood, as well over 60 members and guests, including some Fellowcrafts and Entered Apprentices. 113 has a warrant dating from 1767, and the demonstration was set in 1777, so only a short time after the warrant was being first used.

The Kendal-based Brigantes team first demonstrated their lodge meeting and First Degree ceremony in 2006, and this was their 14th performance – having been to lodges in Cumberland & Westmorland, East and West Lancashire, and Scotland. All of the cast were in costume, and the meeting and ceremony were based on lodge minutes from that era, the Books of Constitutions of the time, and the contents of various exposures printed during the 18th Century. The lodge in the demonstration was based on a Whitehaven lodge that started in 1761, but which died before the union of the Grand Lodges in 1813.

All of the cast are members of Brigantes Lodge, and include the WM of 113, Richard Johnson, and the WM of Union Lodge 129, Dennis Whicker – 129 being the mother lodge of Brigantes Lodge. The cast had visited Vale Lodge 5256 in Lancaster on the previous Saturday, February 28th, which was their Old English day, making a busy extended weekend. Both lodges and audiences enjoyed the demonstrations, and the visits usefully raised over £700 for charity, which has always been one of the main reasons for bringing the demonstration team together in the first place.

If any other lodge would like to invite the team to visit them, contact Richard Johnson at dr.richardjohnson@btinternet .com to arrange a date – it could be a pleasant way of raising some more money for the 2010 Festival.

"Lodge members with the demonstration team"

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Valentines Ball 2009 - a great success!

Tickets sold like hot cakes for the Valentines Ball at Preston Masonic Hall on the 14th of February 2009. and we made provision for additional tables. On the night, Guests were given a Bucks Fizz on arrival and every lady was presented with a Red Rose. After a welcome from the organisers, 88 brethren, partners and Friends, drawn from eleven of the Preston Group Lodges enjoyed a superb evening. Hearts were the theme on the tables and everyone enjoyed a superb themed meal prepared to the highest standard by our wonderful chef, Alistair. Following a Champagne Raffle, everyone revelled in the live musical entertainment provided by "Souled Out."

Thanks are due to David Parker for publicity and for driving ticket sales, and to Peter Sorsby for the organisation of the entertainment and raffle.

As well as providing a great night out for everyone attending, the Valentines Ball raised almost £700 for Preston Masters’ Charities.

"Diners in the ballroom"

"All Souled Out"

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W Bro Linden Davies celebrates 50 years in Freemasonry

On 27th January 2009, W Bro Linden Davies celebrated 50 years in Freemasonry in Ribble Lodge No 4558, with WBro Leon D Tax, Assistant Provincial Grand Master leading the celebration in Lodge.

Linden George Davies was born the youngest of three boys in Cardiff on 15th April 1929, to parents Sydney, a sailor, and Amelia, a housewife. After a family move to Dunstable in Bedfordshire he attended Bedfordshire College both at junior and senior school.

From 1944 to 1949 Linden was a management trainee with a building company and gained a Higher National Diploma. He received call up papers and was commissioned into the Royal Engineers, serving in England in the Assault Engineer Regiment as a troop commander and liaison officer. Following National Service he volunteered for the T.A. and served from 1951 to 1967. In 1959 he was given command of the Engineer Squadron in Preston and in 1963 he was awarded the Territorial Decoration. In 1964 he was appointed as Staff Officer at Headquarters for the 42nd (Lancashire) Infantry Division.

Linden met his wife Dorothy in Dunstable, they started courting in 1948 and married in March 1950. For the first year of their marriage they were mostly separated as Dorothy continued her work at the Met Office and Linden continued his National Service. When his Army service ended in 1951 he and Dorothy moved to Preston. Having become interested in surveying during National Service, Linden determined to become a Quantity Surveyor and in 1951 he took a post in Bolton to train as a Chartered Surveyor, travelling daily from Preston. In 1955 he qualified as an associate of the R.I.C.S., Receiving a Fellowship in 1959 and becoming a partner in the practice in 1962. He became senior partner in 1975 and retired in 1988. During this time Linden and Dorothy moved closer to Linden’s work in Bolton and some years later purchased what was intended to be a holiday (or retirement) home in Windermere, where they eventually settled. They have two sons and five grandchildren.

Heavily involved with the Church for many years Lyndon was a member of the Diocesan board of finance and chairman of the Parsonage Church Building and Glebe estates committee in the Manchester Diocese. He was employed as a consultant and was responsible for building 56 parsonages, 10 churches and the restoration of another 50 churches. Currently he serves in the Carlisle Diocese and Deanery and for the last ten years he has been a church warden at St Martin’s Church in Windermere. On retirement from the Manchester Diocese he became a non executive director of the NHS Hospital Trust and served a three year term which was renewed for another permitted term of three years. He still sits on the appeals committee which under the Mental Health Act, monthly considers appeals against being sectioned.

Initiated into Ribble Lodge No 4558 on Wednesday 28th January 1959, Linden was installed as Master in 1976. He has served the lodge as ADC, DC and Chaplain, and as a Director of Preston Masonic Hall and Group Representative. He joined Setantia Lodge of Installed masters No 7755 in 1978 and Windermere Lodge No 2217 in 1992. In 1987 he was appointed to the rank of PPrSGD and promoted to PPrGSupWks in 1995.
Exalted in 1963 into the Royal Arch in Winckley Chapter No 5438 Linden was installed as first principal in 1982. He is a member of Setantia Chapter of Installed First Principals No 7755, a Founder of Ribble Chapter. Installed as first principal of that Chapter in 1987, he served the chapter as ADC for two years and for five years as DC.
Linden was perfected in Walter M Hamilton Rose Croix Chapter No 195 in 1979. He was Most wise Sovereign in 1986 and Elected Knight Rose Croix 300 in 1987.

"Linden in the centre of his colleagues"

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Preston Group Dinner 2009

The Group dinner at Ashlar house this year welcomed Rev. Harry E. Ross, Third Provincial Grand Principal, as its guest of honour.

Well over 100 Preston Freemasons, together with Masonic and non-Masonic guests enjoyed an excellent meal followed by an entertaining and thought-provoking after-dinner talk. Rev. Harry Ross spoke of his early life as a teacher in Liverpool, and related many anecdotes about his life in the Ministry, and his involvement with the News Media. Inevitably there was mention of the tragedy of the death of Rhys Jones, and its effect on the family and community. Everyone gained an insight into the life of a man of the cloth, but also saw the level of activity required of a man who is heavily involved with the Liverpool community, as well as Everton Football Club and the welfare of former players across the UK and into Europe.

Thanking our guest of honour for his attendance on the evening Ian Greenwood, Group Chairman, presented him with a memento of his visit, and a donation from the Preston Group Charity account to the Rhys Jones Memorial Fund.

"The diners in the ballroom."

"The Group Chairman, W.Bro. Ian Greenwood,PJGD, with the guest speaker Rev. Harry E Ross, PSGD,PAPrGM. W.Bro. Leon Tax, PSGD, APrGM is on the extreme left, and E.Comp. Ray Martland, PAGSoj, As to PrGP's in on the extreme right."

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A Truly Unique Occasion

In December 2008 attendees at the meeting of The Lodge of Concord No. 343 witnessed a truly unique event – a triple 50th Celebration for WBros Bryan Wolfenden, Gerald Maxwell Stott and John Greenwood Bramley.

The celebration in Lodge for this truly unique occasion was led by Assistant Provincial Grand Master Leon D. Tax

John Bramley was born on 13th February 1925, the only child of Harry Bramley, an Electrical Supervisor and his wife Hannah.
Gerald Stott’s birth date was 22nd October 1930, he was the second son to Percy, who had a wholesale bakery business, and Sarah known as Sally, a housewife. Bryan Wolfenden arrived on the 9th September 1933; his parents Frederick and Mary having had another son five years earlier. Frederick worked in the furniture department at the Co-Op and during the war was a Naval Ordinance inspector.

Gerald spent his formative school years at Woodlands, Preston Grammar and Crestbrook and then to Rossall. Due to a shortage of university places he was encouraged to accept an exchange place to Manlius Military School in Syracuse, New York. The plan was to go on from there to London University but due to the death of his father at the age of only 48, he returned to the UK and went to Blackpool Bakery College, subsequently joining his brother Kenneth in the family business. Later Brian became Managing Director of a large restaurant but after only three years his life took on a completely different direction when he was offered a position as Operations Director for a charity running youth opportunities and a programme for the long term unemployed.

Bryan attended Chorley Grammar School. He is particularly proud to have been captain of his school cricket team and to have held the then school record of 8 wickets for three runs. He also played tennis and became a qualified Life Saving Instructor of swimming. Finishing his schooling at Harris College he gained his HNC. At the age of 18 he became a design engineer at Leyland and Chorley Motors: working on both Centurion and Chieftain Tanks. In 1961 he moved to the Atomic Energy Authority and was selected in 1968 for a post to set up a Department of Training and industrial Liaison Service. He later worked at the Town Hall running an Industrial development Unit.

John’s story is a little different, in that his mother died in childbirth. His father remarried five years later but passed away when John was eleven years old. If that was not a bad enough beginning his step mother died shortly thereafter. John was bought up by his father’s sister, herself a widow. John’s father had joined Centenary Lodge in 1932 and the lodge arranged for his education. He attended Preston Grammar School, gaining six credits and a distinction in art. Perhaps it was this which led to his early interest in architecture. John was a keen sportsman and played football, cricket and tennis. The freemasons arranged an apprenticeship, five years with A.C.M. Lilley. Three years into his apprenticeship John was called up, serving with the Royal Engineers in Egypt, Italy, Austria and Germany. Following demob he returned to A.C.M. Lilley to finish his apprenticeship. It is at this time that his first spark of interest in freemasonry was lit. Following the death of A C M Lilley his business moved to Preston, and Mrs Lilley offered John the use of her late husband’s office where he started a very successful private practice as an architect. In which business he still works alongside his son Richard.

All three celebrants were married and each has children and grandchildren. John married Dorothy in 1956 they have two children, Richard and Ann and five adorable grandchildren. Gerald took Lynn as his bride also in 1956. They also have two children, Carl and Susan and they are proud grandparents of one boy and two girls. Bryan met Gillian the daughter of a former boss and they were married in 1959. Bryan and Gillian have two children, Simon and Tracy and five wonderful grandchildren.

Bryan was initiated, passed and raised in Euxton Lodge no 7192. His proposer was the WM at that time and the proposition was seconded by his father in law Bro Frederick Bullough. When it became difficult to get to his lodge because of work commitments, Bryan accepted the offer to become a founder of Salwick Lodge no 7993. He was installed as WM of that lodge in 1971 (the year of the Preston Guild) and once again in 1999 (when he had the privilege of serving as the Millennium Master. He also served that lodge as Charity Representative, ADC and DC. In 1982 Brian was appointed to the acting rank of PrDGSwdB. - he is very proud to have carried the Provincial Sword at the Consecration of Mersey Valley Lodge of IM. In 1991 in recognition of the valuable contribution that he continued to make he was promoted to the rank of PPrJGW. Brian was exalted into the Royal Arch in Salwick Chapter No 7993 on 17th September 1985 and appointed PPrAGSoj in 1999.

John’s initiation into Centenary Lodge No 4908 took place on 23rd December 1958. He was installed as Master in 1967. He served as Treasurer from 1970 until 1980. In 1975 was appointed as a PrGStwd, being promoted four years later to PPrSGD and then in 1989 to PPrJGW. In 1966 John was exalted into the Royal Arch in Preston Portcullis Chapter No 6316, and installed as first principal in 1972. Appointed an acting PrGStwd in 1977 and promoted in 1981 he now holds the rank of PPrPGSoj. Perfected in the Rose Croix in Bellisama Chapter No 405, in 1963 John was installed as Most Wise Sovereign in 1973. He found in The Rose Croix something very special and is a founder of two Chapters, Prince of Peace No 767 and Garstang No 998. Having served all three chapters with distinction in 1997 John received his 32nd Degree. Initiated in the Knights Templar in 1979 he was appointed to Grand Rank in 2004 as P.G.Chamberlain.

Gerald was initiated was into Concord Lodge No 343 in 1958, his proposer being his uncle, Harry Gleave. Missing an odd office on his way to the chair in 1970 he was installed Master of the lodge. Changing career and business commitments caused his attendance to be erratic but when he retired in 1990 Gerald was once again able to resume a regular attendance. He holds Provincial Grand Lodge rank of PPrAGSupWks. Gerald is a member of Progress Lodge of Mark Master Masons No 898 in 1994.

At the end of his address WBro Tax said:

“Brethren, before drawing this address to a conclusion, I should like you to know that my difficulty in writing this address was not in what to say but in what to omit. My office was like the cutting room floor and I am sure that I have missed out many important items."
“Gerald, John and Bryan, for me it has been a tremendous privilege and a labour of love to research, write and deliver this brief history of the life and times of the three of you."
“Our Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Bro Peter Hosker, is himself aware of this special celebration and whilst he cannot greet you in person he sends his personal greetings in the form of a certificate for each of you.”
The content of the Certificates was read by Preston Group Chairman Ian Greenwood, after which the Certificates were presented by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master.

"The Celebrants with thier distinguished guests"

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Preston Group Carol Service 2008

The 2008 Preston Group Annual Family Carol Service was again held at Broughton Parish Church. This year we were honoured by the presence of RWBro Peter Hosker, Provincial Grand Master, and his wife Julie.

After a short programme of entertainment by Old Hall Brass, The Vicar of Broughton Parish Church, Revd Sidney Fox welcomed everyone to the Church, and led the Service, which was once again planned and organised by W. Bro. Ian Cuerden. There were excellent contributions from the Choir, augmented this year by the Elizabethan Singers, and the Old Hall Brass Ensemble enhanced the congregation’s enjoyment of the program.

At the end of a splendid afternoon the Preston Group Chairman, W Bro. Ian Greenwood, thanked the vicar and church authorities for their welcome and co-operation, and the organisers for arranging and planning another memorable introduction to the festive season. He also mentioned what a pleasure it had been to have the Provincial Grand Master and Mrs. Hosker with us, and also W.Bro. ‘Teddy’ Dickson who, in his 90th year, read for us during the service. After the Service refreshments were served in the new Church Hall, during which we enjoyed an excellent demonstration of bell ringing.

Next year the Service will return to a former venue, Christ Church Fulwood.

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Past Provincial Grand Master visits Preston Guild Lodge

Preston Guild Lodge welcomed a distinguished visitor indeed to its December Dining-in night. RWBro Colin Penty Wright, Past Provincial Grand Master, visited the Lodge to express his special thanks to WBro Bill Seddon, who recently retired as Assistant Provincial Grand Master. During his time as Provincial Grand Master it was always RWBro Wright’s custom, on the retirement of any of his Assistants, to visit them in their own Lodge to personally express his thanks for their support and for their work on behalf of Freemasonry, and he has been able to continue with this custom. He was generous in his praise of Bill Seddon, who is well known and respected in the Preston Group as a tireless supporter of Preston Freemasonry, and everyone attending was very happy to see his work acknowledged on this way.

The Lodge meeting was followed by a Christmas Dining-in; the traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, Christmas pudding and mince pies. After the meal everyone enjoyed an excellent programme of entertainment led in his own inimitable way by WBro John Baron.

&uotq;R.W.Bro. Colin Penty Wright, PPrGM with W.Bro. William Richard Seddon,P.S.G.D.,P.A.Pr.G.M."

"R.W.Bro. C. P. Wright with members of the Group Executive."

"Diners at the Christmas Festive Board."

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50th Anniversary Tribute to a Great Royal Arch Companion

Anyone attending the Celebration of 50 years in the Royal Arch for E.Comp.E.C. Dickson P.A.G.Sojr in Preston Masonic Hall on the 21st October could not fail to have been impressed by the occasion. In a packed Ashton Davies Suite The Most Excellent Grand Superintendent for the Province of West Lancashire, Peter J. Hosker, paid tribute to a Great Freemason and a great Citizen. At the Festive Board, the toast to his health was given by his friend and colleague in and outside Freemasonry, E.Comp. W. S. Huck.

Edward Chambre (Teddy) Dickson. Was born on 29th July 1918 in Lytham. He was educated at Marlborough College Wiltshire and St. John’s College Cambridge.

After joining the Territorial Army in 1938 and being commissioned 2nd Lieutenant with the 88th Field Regiment (the Lancaster Gunners), he entered service with the Royal Artillery
(Preston Gunners) in 1939.

In the 1939-1945 war he served in France with the British Expeditionary Force between September 1939 and June 1940, being mentioned in Despatches following the evacuation of Dunkirk, and he served in Malaya from October 1941 to February 1942. With the fall of Singapore he was taken prisoner by the Japanese, being imprisoned from February 1942 to September 1945, and forced to work on the infamous Burma Railway which claimed around 160,000 lives during its construction. The project is probably best known today for the film of the construction of its Bridge 277 – The Bridge on The River Kwai,
Following his service in the war, he returned home in 1948 and took up a career as a Solicitor in General Practice, which continued until 1983.

‘Teddy’ was married 1st April 1951 to Joyce Mary Houghton. They had two children – a daughter Daphne Sarah who has two daughters, Nicola and Phillipa; and a son, Peter Alan, with two children, Charles and James. Joyce Mary sadly passed away on 6th April 1964. He was married again on 15th September 1965 to Isabella Dorothy Swanson Carus Healey, who sadly passed away in July 2006 after a long illness.

Always involving himself in his community, he played cricket for Preston’s first team in 1938/39, and he is Vice President of Preston Blind Welfare Society, Vice President of the Lancashire Youth Clubs Association, an honorary member of the “Select Vestry” or "The Four-and-Twenty Gentlemen" of the Parish Church of St. John in Preston, a former Trustee of the Harris Charity (formerly the Harris Children’s Home), and a Trustee of the Harris Free Public Library, Museum and Educational Trust. He was appointed Deputy Lieutenant for the County of Lancaster in 1975, and High Sheriff of Lancashire for 1986-1987. His interests include Church music, architecture and history, gardening, travel, stamp collecting and chess.

E.Comp. Dickson was exalted into Holy Royal Architect Chapter No.314 in 1958, and was appointed Provincial Grand Scribe N. in 1973. He was installed as First Principal of Holy Royal Architect Chapter No.314 in 1968 and continued through 1969. He was appointed PrGStdB. in 1976 and P.A.G.Soj. In 1979.

Other appointments in Freemasonry include Vice Chairman of the Preston Group of Lodges and Chapters in 1971, and Assistant Provincial Grand Master with responsibility for the Preston and Leyland Groups in 1976; he retired as APGM in 1989.

"Peter J Hosker, Grand Superintendent; E.C. Dickson; Steven P. J. Reid, Deputy Grand Superintendent; Ray Martland, Assistant to the Grand Principals."

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W. Bro. Dr. Bruce Cooper returns to Gibraltar after 66 years.

Dr Bruce Cooper, 93 years old, Surgeon Lieutenant (Retired) Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve, returned to Gibraltar on the 15th October 2008 and was able to confirm that Gibraltar's infamous "Stay Behind Cave" was indeed the secret chamber from which he and five other men would have spied on Germans if Gibraltar had been captured during the second world war. Dr Cooper is the only living member of the top secret operation code named Tracer.
The visit to Gibraltar was organised by documentary film Producer Martin Nuza (Gold Productions Studios) with the assistance of Jim Crone (discovergibraltar.com) as part of Mr Nuza's latest film project specifically about Operation Tracer. This follows on from Mr Nuza's successful documentary about Hitler's plan to capture Gibraltar named "Operation Felix" which was filmed earlier this year.
The Rock Hotel became home once again for Dr Cooper as it had been sixty six years before in 1942 when he first arrived during the second world war. This brought back many memories which helped the intensive interview sessions in which Dr Cooper explained to the cameras of Gold Productions Studios his memories of this top secret operation.
The MOD in Gibraltar greeted Dr Cooper and his family with open arms by organising a number of events which included a trip on board a Gibraltar Squadron patrol boat, a visit to his old surgery at the Naval dockyard plus a personal interview with Commodore Matt Parr Commander British Forces Gibraltar.
During a particular tour of the second world war tunnels hosted by Mr Richard Desoiza, Dr Cooper surprised everyone when he recognised himself in one of the archive military photographs on display at the entrance to the tunnel system. Another highlight of the visit was Dr Coopers attendance as a special guest at the annual Battle of Trafalgar ceremony at Trafalgar Cemetery. After the service he said "I feel very overwhelmed and I wish to thank everybody who has been so kind to me".
The main event of the week was a visit to "Stay Behind Cave" which was a hidden chamber constructed for Operation Tracer back in 1941. The plan was for six men to be sealed into the secret chamber if Gibraltar was captured by the Germans. There would be no way out and anyone who died within the chamber would have to be embalmed and cemented into the walls. The volunteers comprising two doctors, three signalmen and an executive officer, would spy on the Germans from two vantage points, one looking due east over the Mediterranean and the other over the harbour. They were expected to send radio messages about German activity back to GCHQ. Many complex considerations where made during the construction and planning of the mission, these included enough provisions to keep them alive for one year and a pedal bicycle which would have been used to charge the batteries via a dynamo and adequate water and waste disposal.
Dr Cooper and his family were escorted to the site by a team lead by the Director of the Gibraltar Museum as well as Sergeant Major Pete Jackson the senior tunnel guide with the Royal Gibraltar Regiment. The group travelled through a number of chambers and small tunnels to reach the entrance of "Stay Behind Cave". Dr. Cooper was placed in a wheelchair for his own comfort and safety as the journey had to be made by torch light. Martin Nuza filmed the event and captured the moment when Dr. Cooper stood up from the wheelchair and peered into the entrance of "Stay Behind Cave" saying "Yes, I remember this, yes indeed!". Consideration was then given to whether or not Dr. Cooper could or should proceed into the main chamber but given his age and mobility it was decided not to proceed through the tight entrance, however his family were able to enter and were given a detailed tour by Pete Jackson and Darren Fa from the Gibraltar Museum. Dr. Coopers family were amazed by what they saw and moved by the fact that their father had been part of it all.
Dr. Cooper's identification of the entrance to "Stay Behind Cave" has been greeted with great relief by local historians, and rumours which have existed for many years that an alternative secret chamber exists can now be disregarded until more substantial evidence comes along.
"I am very excited about having met Dr Cooper personally during the course of the week long visit and heard about operation Tracer from his own lips, a man who felt he would have been shot if the Germans had discovered them spying. The same man who sat next to German officers for coffee in the nearby Spanish towns of La Linea and San Roque during the war, and who saw action as early as 1939 on board the destroyer HMS Versatile. A true hero of which we should all be grateful for the sacrifice he was prepared to undertake if Operation Felix had gone ahead as planned." Explained Mr. Nuza.
When Mr. Nuza organised Dr Cooper's visit to Gibraltar with the assistance of Jim Crone of discovergibraltar.com, they hoped that Dr Cooper's memory would still be okay taking into consideration his 93 years of age, but they soon realised during the course of the interviews that the age was no problem and Dr Cooper soon revealed many very interesting pieces of information about himself, the second world war, operation Tracer and also the Falklands campaign in which he was also a medical officer on board the hospital ship SS Uganda. Dr Cooper was able to dispel some myths and rumours surrounding Operation Tracer and Mr Nuza will reveal these in the forthcoming documentary.

As a matter of interest, Bruce was initiated in Gibraltar during the war in Connaught Lodge 2915.

For more information visit: http://www.discovergibraltar.com/mainlogo/mainfrm.htm

"Dr Cooper with Martin Nuza and Jim Crone"

"Dr Cooper with Martin Nuza at the entrance of Stay Behind Cave"

"Dr Cooper recognises himself in archive WW2 photograph"

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Just a Perfect Golfing Day.

The Provincial Golf Finals day was held at Swinton Park Golf Club in August this year where each Masonic Group is allowed to enter a team of 6 competitors.

The event this year had been placed in jeopardy due to heavy rain over the previous few days and the tight tree lined course was playing very long indeed due to the wet conditions.

One of our team members, W.Bro. Dave Winder, who had qualified for the team by winning the Group Knock Out ‘EricWells’Cup, just had a perfect golfing day.

Playing off a 6 handicap he managed to drop only 3 strokes to the par of 73 in difficult conditions and shoot 38 Stableford points to win the competition out-right and become the Provincial Golf Champion for the year beating a field of over 120 other players to do so. Incredibly he managed to play the last 5 holes in 4 under par taking the ‘Nearest to the Pin prize’ on the 17th hole with a birdie 2 in the process and by completing the par 5 18th hole with an eagle 3. Dave who is Provincial Junior Grand Warden this year was delighted to have played so well and surprised that he had managed to win the competion. He was presented with his prizes by R.W.Pr.G.M. Peter John Hosker who congratulated him and said ‘I guess that this is an indication that you are going to have a very good year indeed. Very well done.’

The Preston team, Bill Hawkins, Gerry Graves, Stuart Wells, Jim Ainsworth, Fred Walmsley and Dave Winder came 3rd in the overall team competition to the delight of our Group Chairman, Ian Greenwood, who gave his support and was present at the prize presentation.

This is the second year in a row where a Preston Group player has won one of the major prizes, W.Bro. Stuart Wells having won the Arthur Entwistle Cup Division Prize last year.

All members of Preston Group and their guests irrespective of golfing ability are invited and encouraged to play in the Group Golf Competition that is always held in early June. It is a social occasion as well as a competitive event. Enquiries to Preston Group Golf Secretary Ross Procter (01524 752026).

"Photo shows Dave with the Challenge Trophy, Eric Wells Cup and the Nearest to the Pin Salver."

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Setantia Lodge Sunday Lunch 2008

Setantia Lodge of Installed Masters no7755 held its annual Sunday Lunch on the 12th October, the venue once again being Ferrari’s at Longridge.

An excellent turn-out of Freemasons and non-Freemasons with families enjoyed a fine three course meal in pleasant surroundings, the sun through the windows contributing to the feel of the day.

The meal was organised by Secretary Philip Cragg, who had also compiled the now obligatory quiz which, appropriately, was won by the Worshipful Master’s table.

After the meal the Worshipful Master, WBro. Rev. Graham Halsall, expressed thanks on behalf of the Lodge to Phil Cragg for the organisation of the event, and to Ferraris for their service and excellent fare.

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Paul Lyons - 50 years a Freemason

WBro. Paul Robert Lyons PPrGSuptWks was born in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire on 5th May 1930. His father worked in a bank and his mother was a full-time housewife.
Having attended the local Council school, he secured him a place at the Warehousemen and Clerks’ school, now Cheadle Hulme School, leaving in 1947 to work at H. W. Bloomer’s timber merchants in Manchester, the start of a long association with timber. On leaving Bloomer’s he joined Maddock & Tunley, another Timber Merchants. At this time his interest in Freemasonry began - he met his Proposer into Libra Lodge no.5333.

Paul continued his education through evening classes, becoming a member of the Institute of Wood Science, and taking a Sales Management course. Still living in Bramhall, in 1953 he moved to Horsley Smith in Preston. One evening, having taken young lady to a party, he met his wife, Shirley, who he married in September 1956. On Paul’s appointment as Sales Director at Horsley Smith in 1971 the family moved to Preston.

In 1984 Paul set up Fulwood Plywood and Timber; two years later, in partnership with three others, he set up Garstang Timber, importing at competitive rates through his business contacts. In 1996, having decided to spend more time with Shirley on the golf course, Paul sold his share in the company. His affinity with timber continued however, as his interest in joinery and cabinet making led to his constructing furniture for their home.

Having been a member of the Round Table, when Paul moved to Preston he joined the ’41 Club’, and was Chairman in 1973. A heart condition in 1999 led to him becoming a supporter of Heartbeat.

Paul and Shirley have two children, Deborah, who is a Senior Experimental Officer at Liverpool University, and Stephen, who runs a care home in Wales and is about to open another at Weston Super Mare. They have five grandchildren, ranging in age from 9 months to 22 years.

Paul was initiated into Libra Lodge no.5333 in East Lancashire on 12th May 1958, and raised on 30th May 1960. He progressed through the ranks, and was installed as Master in October 1968, and served as Chaplain in 1971-72, resigning from the Lodge on 30th June 1997.
In 1998 Paul joined Forest of Fulwood Lodge no.6388, becoming a member of Preston Guild Lodge no.4408 on amalgamation.

Paul’s celebration was held at a meeting of Preston Guild Lodge on 6th of October 2008, at which Assistant Provincial Grand Master Leon D. Tax took the Chair, and presented a Certificate from the Provincial Grand Master.

"Paul Lyons with Leon Tax, together with Preston Group officials, Lodge members and, second from left Rick Purnell who travelled from the South of England to join Paul."

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PRESTON MASONIC HALL BALLROOM REFURBISHMENT

Over the summer recess the ballroom has been refurbished, and is now available for weddings and other outside lets, as well as for Ladies’ Festivals, socials and other Lodge functions.

The floor has been partly carpeted in a very tasteful blue colour, and there is a central area for dancing.

The views of the ballroom show layouts in both herringbone, with long tables and more casual with circular tables. These allow seating for around one hundred and twenty people in very luxurious surroundings.

"Looking towards the top table"

"Looking back to the stage"

"Tables in "Herring Bone" style"

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RESTON MASONIC HALL ANNUAL MAY LONG WEEKEND TRIP 2008 DESTINATION VALKENBURG

With the end of April fast approaching and the first May Bank Holiday on the horizon, the thoughts of Preston Masons turn to the exciting prospect of another long weekend excursion. This elite band of intrepid explorers was once again fuelled by their united passion for historic European locations, majestic architecture and alcohol!

The awaited day arrived on Friday, 2 May 2008 when the happy band of travellers boarded the coach. Thanks to the generosity of Mel Cross, the tour organiser, some chose to meet the coach at Mel’s house. The remainder boarded the coach at Saul Street and everyone was really pleased to see that our driver this year, as in previous years, was John who always pulls out all the stops to ensure the party have a thoroughly enjoyable time. The coach left Saul Street at 0915hrs and headed for York, were a stopover was planned for the assembled to enjoy a relaxing lunch and the many interesting sites in this historic city. There was plenty of room on the coach as, for this first leg of the journey, there were only fourteen passengers with the prospect of picking up Ray Leather and his good lady Audrey at the ferry terminal at Hull.

"The holiday weekend starts here"

The weather leaving Preston was gloriously sunny, but on the other side of the Pennines it was cloudy, although the sun kept trying its best to break through. The motorway journey to York was as smooth as silk and trouble free. Mel like the good sheppard tending his flock, regularly distributed sweets to freshen everyone’s palate. On the original itinerary it was intended that one of the excursions would be to Rhuedesheim, but Mel announced that the distance between Valkenburg and Rhuedesheim was excessive and it would result in most of the day being spent travelling. In light of this, the party agreed that a more suitable excursion location should be determined once we reached Valkenburg. This was yet again another example, if one was needed, of the peace and harmony which always characterises these Masonic trips.

The party arrived in York at 1120hrs and after alighting from the bus split into smaller groups to view the historic buildings, such as the Minster, and to stroll around the narrow quaint streets of the Shambles and of course sampling the delights of some of the many atmospheric pubs. The weather throughout the afternoon in York was dry with sunny spells, which all added to a very enjoyable stopover.

For the regulars on the trip stopping in York is like meeting an old friend
The rendezvous location for meeting the coach was adjacent to the entrance of the City Art Gallery and the group shared their various experiences of the afternoon with each other while they waited in the warm spring sunshine. John, the driver, true to his now legendary reputation for attention to detail, arrived punctually at 1530hrs to whisk the party off to Hull and the overnight sea crossing to Rotterdam.

The group arrived in Hull at 1720hrs and after the usual travel documentation was sorted and authorised the party commenced boarding the Pride of Rotterdam, moored against the River Humber terminal jetty. Most holidays characterise the old adage of “No gain without pain” in the sense that to get somewhere for a good holiday one has normally to undergo the rigors of an long and tiring journey. I am sure that many will have bad memories of knees under the chin charter flights to foreign climes! Not so with the overnight voyage to the Continent. On every one of the many previous Continental tours, the excellent meals and relaxing entertainment on board ship has signalled that the holiday has truly commenced.

After freshening up, most of the party made their way from their cabins to the upper decks for an aperitif prior to partaking in an appetising evening meal. As the diners ate, the Pride of Rotterdam quietly slipped away from her moorings and headed down the Humber with effortlessly ease heading for the North Sea.

The following Saturday morning everyone awoke to a clear, but misty blue sky, with the North Sea displaying a millpond calm. After a sumptuous breakfast the Pride of Rotterdam entered Europort and docked with the usual efficiency at 0845hrs. The party disembarked to be greeted by a gloriously sunny morning with a light cooling breeze and after boarding the coach at 0930hrs, headed for Maastricht. The coach sped along the Dutch motorways and the adventurers arrived in Maastricht at lunchtime. Most took the advantage of enjoying a refreshing drink and lunch in the bright warm spring sunshine at one of the many street side cafes.

"Savouring the street cafes of Maastricht"

In the afternoon the coach continued on its journey to the accommodation in Valkenburg arriving just before 1700hrs. The hotel was the 3 star Schaepkens Van St Fyte and once Mel Cross had organised the room keys with Reception, the party made their way to the well appointed rooms to unpack. After freshening up some went straight to explore the centre of Valkenburg, which was only a short walk down the hill. Others decided to have a quick drink at the hotel before venturing and were amused by the hotels payment system. The bar did not accept cash so there was a queue of thirsty Masons exchanging their Euros for tokens.

"The hotel grounds with terrace and accommodation in the background"

For two of the party it was a special thrill to arrive in Valkenburg. The previous year Joan Wood had taken advantage of the May Masonic trip to the continent to meet for the first time a life long pen pal, Josie, who lives with her husband in Belgium. This time Joan and Brian were taking the opportunity to meet Josie and her husband again and spend some time with them at the hotel on the Saturday and on the Sunday going to their house to spend the day.

"Brian and Joan Wood with Joan’s pen pal Josie and husband"

Later in the afternoon the group reassembled on the hotel’s terrace to bask in the sunshine and share stories of their afternoon tour of this remarkable town. One story that caused some amusement was recounted by the Group Chairman, Ian Greenwood . He and his wife had gone into a temperance establishment in Valkenburg and he was asked to produce his passport before they could be served. Later the café owner was overheard to remark that to find a Preston Mason in a temperance establishment was most unusual, but to find a Preston Group Chairman in such an establishment was highly suspicious!

"Typical bustling street in Valkenburg"

Around 1830hrs the party retired to their rooms to prepare for the evening meal. This was served at 1930hrs and was buffet style with soup or cold meats for starters, followed by beef or pork in a sauce all served with potatoes/chips and seasonal vegetables. Following the main course there was some confusion with the sweets. After finishing the main course the early diners in the party had gone for their sweets and chosen from a fine array on display. Confusion erupted when the Head Waiter started running around confiscating the chosen sweets, but only from those in the Preston party. His English was not good, so to exacerbate the annoyance of those affected, he compounded the felony with barking the words “You will not eat these; you will eat my special dessert!” Many of the party were not aware that the hotel had made a special dessert for them, which turned out to be a baked Alaska with hot cherries and when the confusion was sorted, everyone agreed that it was indeed a very special and delicious desert.

The lack of awareness of this special sweet, confirmed many a Lodge Secretary’s suspicion that Masons are very bad at reading information sent to them, particularly summonses. On the original itinerary, which was sent to all party members by Mel Cross, it stated that on Saturday evening there would be “a buffet dinner and special dessert!

After the meal there was musical entertainment in the dining room, but some chose to go on the terrace and have a quiet drink as the evening was still warm while the more adventurous headed for town and the casino. Sunday morning the party, after partaking in a Continental breakfast, made preparations for a day excursion to Ahrweiler in Germany. As stated earlier in these ramblings the original intension was to visit Rhuedesheim, but that would have meant spending most of the day travelling on the coach. The previous evening John and Mel had discussed an alternative and proposed Ahrweiler which was much closer. All agreed with the proposal particularly as the weather again was glorious.

At 0930hrs the bold adventurers boarded the coach and headed down the motorway to arrive on schedule at Ahrweiler, which is one of the centres of the German wine growing industry. The bus park was just outside the town walls. After a short walk the group entered the town through a magnificent arch in the medieval wall. Entering through the wall was like stepping back in time with quaint architecture and quirky well maintained properties. The streets were cobbled and in the centre of the town was St Laurentius church with its magnificent stain glass windows appearing even more impressive, thanks to the bright warm spring sunshine shining through them. The town had plenty of cafes which the party sampled, but was refreshingly free of any fast food outlets and the associated scourge of litter. Indeed the whole town was impressively clean.

"The entrance into the walled town of Ahrweiler"

When the party arrived many of the shops where closed owing to their adherence to restrictions on Sunday opening, but the girls still enjoyed window shopping while the chaps enjoyed keeping their credit cards in their wallets!

"One of the many street cafes within the town"

"The church of St Laurentius with its magnificent stain glass windows"

The party reassembled again outside the walled town on the coach car park and although busy, even this mundane area was impeccably clean and well appointed. On the way back to Valkenburg the whole party congratulated John the driver and Mel for selecting what had been a marvellous excursion made all the better by the warm spring sunshine.

On arrival back at the hotel many took advantage, as the weather was so nice, of “Happy Hour” at the hotel and partook of several small libations on the terrace. Once again the evening meal was buffet style, but on this occasion was free from the trauma of fighting with the waiter for the desert! Most retired to bed before midnight, after what had been a first class Masonic tour day.

Monday morning was no exception to another cloudless sunny day and after breakfast and before departing the hotel, the obligatory group photograph was taken for posterity. There was a fine array of happy smiling faces on display and not surprisingly after such an enjoyable time.

At 0900hrs the coach left Valkenburg for Amsterdam were the party enjoyed a couple of hours enjoying the sites and hospitality of this unique city, before heading for Europort and the waiting Pride of Rotterdam. Once again the evening meal and the subsequent Monday morning breakfast were enjoyed by all. The crossing again had been extremely smooth and the high pressure, which resulted in glorious sunshine, continued on Monday morning and for the rest of the day.

"Two of Amsterdam’s finest Health & Safety advisors!"

The coach departed Hull and headed for Preston arriving back at the Masonic Hall at 1125hrs having had a quick comfort stop at Hartside Moor service station.

Sadly this was the end of what had been a very enjoyable and successful annual Masonic May trip. The only consolation being the machinery was already turning to establish a suitable continental location for next year’s adventure.

Here is a suggestion. Instead of reading my scribbles next year about these marvellous excursions, why don’t you and your friends join the merry band and come along on another exciting adventure over the long May weekend of 2009!!!!

See you there; you most certainly will not regret it.

"The merry band of 2008"

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Spring Ball – a big “Thank You!”

On the 26th of April 2008 PMH Refurbishment Fund Committee held a Spring Ball at the Masonic Hall in Preston. The formal event was a great success, and organized as a non-profit evening to express the Committee’s thanks for the support received for their events over the year.

As a Formal Dress occasion, all the men looked their best, but were eclipsed by the ladies, resplendent in their “posh frocks”. Chef Alistair again rose to the occasion with an excellent meal, after which everyone danced the night away to the music of the ‘50s and’60s in the live sounds of The Fabulous All-Stars. Our Steward Dave and the bar staff were as efficient as ever at providing the necessary liquid refreshment.

The end result was an evening greatly enjoyed by those attending, and our thanks go to all the staff at PMH who helped to make this a memorable evening. Although organised as a non-profit night the PMH Refurbishment Fund did benefit from the generosity of the Preston Masters who organised the raffle on their behalf.

"Revellers in the mood"

The Fabulous All Stars

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Duncan Hilton’s 60 years in Freemasonry

On the 7th of May, 2008 W.Bro. Thomas Duncan Hilton Celebrated 60 years in Freemasonry at a meeting of The Halcyon Lodge No. 6500

Duncan Hilton was born on the 20th of June 1923 in New Longton near Preston.
He attended Preston Grammar School, leaving in 1941 to become a Temporary Civil Servant with the Inland Revenue.

Conscripted in June 1942, Duncan became a Commissioned 2nd Lieutenant in 1943. After training he was assigned in 1944 to the 2nd Battalion of the East Yorkshire Regiment. Taking part in the D day Landings, he crossed to Normandy on 6th June 1944 and returned home wounded in mid July. By this time, just before his 21st Birthday, Duncan had taken command with the rank of Temporary Captain. Active service with the Regiment was resumed around Christmas 1944. Whilst serving with 21st Army Group under Field Marshal Montgomery and deep into Germany, Duncan was almost killed alongside his Platoon Sergeant in April 1945. After a period of hospitalisation he was declared fit enough to undertake payroll duties with a General Service Corps in Lichfield until his release in 1946.

Duncan married his wife Jean in June 1947. They have three children and six grand children. In 1948 Duncan joined the Civil Service as a permanent member of staff with the Ministry of Social Security in Blackpool. In 1949 he left to join Local Government in the Education Department in County Hall Preston, retiring in 1981.

Duncan joined Penwortham Parish Council in the mid 60’s assisting in the change from Parish to Town in 1974 when The Local Government Act came into being. He served as Mayor in the late seventies and mid eighties.
Attending St. Leonard’s Church in Penwortham he was Treasurer from 1953 until 1997, and was involved with Blackburn Diocesan Board of Finance. Duncan served as Lay Chairman of the Leyland Deanery and was Treasurer some 20 years. For many years he was a member of the C.E.M.S., participating in a number of National Conferences. After retirement he represented the Town Council as School Governor at Hutton Grammar, Middleforth C.E., and Kingsfold, and from its opening the new County Primary known as Penwortham Broad Oak, serving as Chairman of Governors for several terms.

The first Candidate to be initiated into the Halcyon Lodge No.6500 at the first meeting after consecration of the Lodge in 1948, Duncan was installed as Master for the first time in 1961. He became Master again 37 years later in 1998. Duncan has held many offices in Halcyon – Chaplain 1971 to 1975, ADC from 1980 to 1986, and Director of ceremonies from 1986 to 1989. Prior to the Lodge’s 40th Anniversary he wrote a history of the first 40 years. Having joined Lodge Amounderness No.7105 in 1981 he took up duties as Lodge Secretary in 1982, holding that office until 1998. He was elected Group representative for Amounderness in 1987, a position he still holds.
Duncan was awarded Provincial Honours in the Craft as acting Provincial grand Steward in 1968, promoted to Past Provincial Grand deacon in 1972 and to Past Provincial Junior Grand Warden in 1982.

In the Royal Arch, Duncan was Exalted into Portcullis Chapter No.6316 in 1969 and Installed as First Principal in 1977. In 1985 he was appointed to the rank of Provincial Assistant Grand Sojourner.

In February 1979, in the Order of the Secret Monitor, Duncan was inducted into St. David’s Conclave No.247, admitted a Prince of the Order in 1979, and Installed as Supreme Ruler of the Conclave in 1989. He was appointed Provincial grand Standard Bearer in 1991, promoted to Past Provincial grand Guide in 1994, and elevated to Grand Rank as Past Grand Guarder in 1997. In 2007 he was promoted to Past Grand Sword Bearer.

Perfected into Prince of Peace Chapter, Rose Croix No.767 in 1987 Duncan was Enthroned Sovereign in 1991. In 1993 he was promoted to the 30th Degree.

To Duncan’s surprise, and the delight of the attendees at the Celebration,
W.Bro. W.R. Seddon, P.S.G.D; Asst. Pr.G.M. was able to announce Duncan’s promotion to the Rank of Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden, and to invest him at the meeting.

Duncan with Provincial colleagues

Going in to the banquet

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Bill Seddon - a Tribute to a tireless supporter of Freemasonry in Preston

On the 19th of May 2008 a tribute dinner was held at Preston Masonic Hall, to mark the occasion of W.Bro. Bill Seddon’s retirement as an Assistant Provincial Grand Master.

134 guests enjoyed an excellent meal, to the accompaniment of incidental music played by W Bro John Whittall. They were further entertained over coffee to a sparkling performance by Old Hall Community Brass Band conducted by W.Bro. Peter Littlehales.

During the course of the evening V.W.Bro. Tom Blackburn paid tribute to W.Bro. Seddon’s loyalty to Freemasonry since the early days of his appointment to Provincial Duties, plus his dedicated commitment to the ongoing development of freemasonry in Preston, both prior, and since he became an Asst Provincial Grand Master. The freemasons of Preston owe a great deal to Bill’s leadership, readily offering sound guidance to anyone who sought it, irrespective of their rank.

Mention was made of Bill’s local Church in Fulwood, which had benefited from his guidance and which was to gain even more of his time with his now reduced Masonic workload It was not by chance that Bill Seddon displayed and maintained high principles and a strong sense of loyalty to all the activities he immersed himself in, even to the extent of his beloved P.N.E.
V W Blackburn charged all present to drink a hearty and thankful Toast to W Bill Seddon which was greeted by rapturous applause, repeating an occasion that occurred only days previously - at the Installation of the Lodge of Ingol St. Margaret - his last appearance as Asst.Pr.G.M. - Bill Seddon had left that Festive Board to a standing ovation from the members and guests who were present.
These two occasions simply highlighted the affection and respect the Freemasons of Preston hold for such a dedicated man and Brother.

The Group Chairman, W.Bro. Ian Greenwood, had the pleasant task of presenting Bill with a pair of Gold cuff-links and wrist watch, on behalf of the members of every Preston Lodge.

Responding, W.Bro. Seddon stated that he was delighted with the ‘turn out’ along with the gifts presented to him, which would be a satisfying reminder of his very happy period as Asst.P.G.M. within Preston. He said that he had always sought to give encouragement, guidance and support to junior Brethren, describing with some humour the encouragement he was given as a junior Brother himself. He spoke of the importance of the Craft as being the bedrock of Freemasonry despite changes which had occurred over the years. Having said how grateful he was for having had the opportunity of making many friends in Freemasonry. He thanked V.W.Bro. Tom Blackburn for the proposing of the Toast to his health, along with his loyal support throughout all his years in Masonry.
In conclusion he thanked everyone who had attended along with all who had arranged and participated in the proceedings, on this memorable evening.

On his last official engagement

In relaxed mood

With the Group Officers.

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PRESTON GROUP BOWLING TOURNAMENT Sunday 8th June 2008

The Preston Group Bowling Tournament was held at Broughton & District Club, Whittingham Lane, Broughton.
The event was blessed with a warm and sunny day, and was well attended with 15 players taking part, and a considerable number of guests and spectators.
The Broughton green was in excellent condition, and running quite fast.
Four mini-leagues were played, and the winner of each league went through to play in the semi-finals .The standard of bowling was impressive throughout the day
The semi-finalists were :-
Richard Ascroft, Derek Baxter, Cliff Bell, and Mel Johnson..
(These four now qualify to play at the West Lancs Tournament at Fleetwood on 5th July)
The final was contested by Richard and Mel, which saw Richard quickly build up a substantial lead. Mel started to gradually claw his way back into the game, but Richard piled on the pressure again, deservedly winning the match 21-13. Richard later received the impressive Preston Group Trophy, along with the Presidents Prize from the Bowling President - Gordon Payne.
Mel received the Chairman’s Prize from The Bowling Chairman - John Watson. Derek, and Cliff received the third and fourth prizes.
A successful raffle was later held, and the club provided excellent food and bar facilities.

The winner - Richard Ascroft receives the Group Trophy
from the Bowling President - Gordon Payne

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JUBILEE LODGE AND INGOL LODGE OF ST MARGARET BOWLING EVENING

On Friday 6th June 2008 Jubilee Lodge, and Ingol Lodge of St Margaret held their Inter-Lodge Bowling evening at Broughton & District Club.
The event was very well attended with over 50 members and guests enjoying a successful evening.
A raffle was held with members providing the prizes, which raised the sum of £91 to be shared between the two Lodge’s. The event was won this year by Ingol Lodge of St Margaret, although Jubilee ’loaned out’ a few extra players on the evening to even things out.
The picture shows the winning Master W.Bro. Brian Livesey (on the right) being presented with the ‘Don Thurstan Memorial Trophy’ by Connie Thurstan (widow of Don Thurstan) Bro. J. Stansfield, Master of Jubilee Lodge on the left.
Our thanks must go to W.Bro. Alan Eastham and W.Bro. Keith Walton for organising such an enjoyable evening, which was concluded with an excellent buffet supper. Also thanks to W.Bro. Mel Johnson (The Rabbit) for carrying out the duty of official scorer, and co-ordinator, and to Broughton & District Club for their excellent facilities.
It is very much hoped that this occasion will continue to be an annual event.

Master W.Bro. Brian Livesey being presented with the ‘Don Thurstan Memorial Trophy’ by Connie Thurstan (widow of Don Thurstan) Bro. J. Stansfield, Master of Jubilee Lodge on the left

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