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Saturday 7th February 2026:

Small but Perfectly Formed

report by Eddie Wildman

The opening of the Beverlonian Lodge 9084 was tinged with sadness: W Bro Colin Alfred Peck PPJGW, a founder member of the Beverlonian Lodge twenty-three years ago, had passed to the Grand Lodge Above since the last Beverlonian Lodge meeting. I played a verse of Abide with Me as the Brethren stood in respectful silence. The WM, W Bro Mark Alan Fox, opened the Lodge with his usual efficiency.

The attendance was poor: including myself and the IPM of the Ridings Tablers' Lodge 9586 we were only just into double figures, and there was some doubling and sharing of Offices and floorwork. Small but perfectly formed: the Candidate for his 2°, Bro Peter James Langley was treated to an excellent ceremony.

Before that, however, the minutes of the last regular meeting were accepted and signed (W Bro Tom Baxter, IPM does a good job as Lodge Secretary) and Bro Ben Fuller was invested as Tyler, having been unable to attend the Installation meeting. It was an essential Office, as the main business of the evening was to pass Brother Langley to the degree of a Fellowcraft Freemason.

The regular questions leading to acceptance in the next degree were posed and answered and Bro Langley hobbled out of the Lodge Room with the aid of a stick. He had damaged his right leg, and was wearing one of those detachable plastic splint/cast appliances which did not look very comfortable. The Acting DC, W Bro Tony Burke PGStB ensured that there was a chair available for Bro Langley for those points in the ritual requiring standing motionless for any length of time.

During his absence, W Bro Fox opened the Lodge in the 2°. Bro Langley re-entered the Lodge Room and was advanced to the east in the peculiar manner characteristic of this degree. (It is likely that Bro Langley's son, Josh, will be taking his Second degree ceremony, and I am being careful to supply him with no clues; I'm confident his dad will say nothing.) The Worshipful Master obligated Bro Langley with his usual measured delivery, and pointed the significance of the position of the Square and Compasses.

At this stage I would like to congratulate the Deacons; Bro David Wilson who conducted the Candidate through part of the ceremony and gave a stirling account of the significance of the Fellowcraft Apron, and Bro Francis James Richley, Senior Deacon, who looked after Bro Langley through the whole ceremony.

W Bro Roger Lewis not only acted as Junior Warden through the evening, but also undertook floorwork including the communication of the signs, tokens and words of a Fellowcraft Freemason and delivered the Ancient Charge. I was privileged to explain the 2° Working Tools.

Bro Langley retired to put on his smart suit. The Lodge was lowered to the 1° for reports.The stand-in Wardens reported on the work of the Lodge with various charities. The Almoner's, Charity Steward's and Treasurer's reports were given. Greetings were extended from the Officers of UGLE, of the Province of YN&ER and from me as a member of Humber 57 and the RTL's Lodge 9586 by their IPM, who had kindly stood-in as Inner Guard that evening.

The Master closed the Lodge smoothly and the Closing Ode was sung. I managed a couple of snapshots.

 

 

 

 

Friday 6th February 2026:

Four-letter Words

report by Eddie Wildman

Apart from only having four letters in their names (you can score points for yourself if you can name any other British cities dating from Medieval times that have only four letters before reaching the end of this article - using the Internet is not allowed) - Hull and York are separated by forty-eight miles and linked by the A1079, which features regularly in the Road Foundations reports on Britain's most dangerous roads.

With Bazza Longstaff driving, (bottom picture, first on the left) Bro James Anderson and I were in safer hands than most passengers; the conditions were poor, the traffic dense and irritable, the weather foul. Despite the prompt set-off, we parked  by Clifford's Tower and braved the rain to the Lodge on Castlegate to arrive just as the ceremony was starting. I was supposed to be playing the organ for the ceremony so I was in a state of panic - damn, the instrument wasn't even plugged in! - nor was I familiar with the stops that would make an acceptable sound for the Installation of Brother David Grainger. I tried not to mutter any other four-letter words under my breath as I discovered the extension lead and the plug and shuffled into my seat. I'd have to wait until a suitable gap before I could get my music out - there were brief periods of perambulation where I could try out the stops, pianissimo. I managed to play suitably dignified music for the entry of W Bro Mark Iveson, Assistant Provincial Grand Master and his escort (under the able directorship of W Bro Ben Kelly) and my heart started to slow down when the APGM had introduced his team and returned the gavel to W Bro Colin Fenwick, the Worshipful Master.

Colin was on good form and set a high standard with well-memorised ritual which his officers emulated admirably. The Master Elect, Bro David Grainger, was well installed; the Entered Apprentice retired and the Lodge was raised to the 2°. The WM recited the essential aspects of Mastership and the Secretary, W Bro Horn read the necessary qualifications required in the Ancient Charges and Bro Grainger signified his agreement. He was obligated by the WM while the Brethren stood to order in dignified splendour, in their dark blue and light blue collars and aprons - a healthy balance of hims ancient and modern.

The Lodge was raised further, the light blues retiring as the assembled Brethren constituted a Board of Installed Masters and Bro Grainger became a Worshipful Brother as he was placed in the figurative Chair of King Solomon. W Bro Grainger invested the Immediate Past Master with his collar with equal dignity, remarking that he was assured of good advice should it be needed.

As the Lodge was lowered back through the Craft degrees, the Working Tools were impressively explained. I played the verses of Hail Masonry Divine as the younger Brethren perambulated round the Lodge. The Warrant was presented, along with the Book of Constitutions and the Bylaws of the Francis Drake of York Lodge 7825.

W Bro Grainger appointed and invested his officers, and W Brother Sharp gave the address to the Master with aplomb. The Lodge Room is dignified by a large semicircular apse at the east, with a hemispherical golden vault. This is helpful acoustically; I could hear the addresses clearly - they were all excellent.

Reports followed, and W Bro Iveson presented a Past Master's jewel to W Bro Fenwick remarking on its significance as a token of preeminence.

Greetings were extended to the new WM from UGLE, the Province of YN&ER, and the visitors. Many York Lodges were represented (You're nearly at the end of this report - have you identified any other four-letter British cities yet?) with visitors from further afield (James from Hull, Barry Longstaff from south of the Humber.)

The closing ode was sung. While the words are familiar, the tune St Oswald is not widely known, though the FDOY Brethren sang lustilly. It is another connection between the cites, as it was composed by Hull-born John Bacchus Dykes. He composed it in 1857, over a hundred years before the Lodge was consecrated. St Oswald, according to legend, was the greatest of the Northumbrian kings, and re-established the Church after the people had reverted to paganism under Cadwalla (634 A.D.) One Easter Sunday, Oswald and the monk St Aidan, first bishop of Kindisfarne were dining, and word came to the king that many poor and hungry people were gathered outside. He ordered that all the food prepared for himself should be distributed among them, and the silver dish broken and shared likewise. St Aidan, (there are several St Aidan Masonic Lodges in the UK, including No 4080 in Durham and 6339 in East Lancashire) impressed, took the king's hand and blessed it, praying that what had given so freely should never wither. The unperished hand was preserved for many years after Oswald's death, but disappeared around the time of the Reformation.

Photographs were taken; here shown are some of the Francis Drake of York gathered together (one or two visitors have pushed in too); then L to R W Bro Iveson, APGM, W Bro David Grainger, WM; and W Bro Colin Fenwick, IPM.

The festive board was convivial. Three Brethren sang the Worshipful Masters' song. This was unrehearsed, and I had my back to the performers so we weren't always together, but the Three Degrees (pictured - listen to the lads perform on the Facebook page) made a noble effort and everyone joined in the chorus. The visitor's song was rendered tutti after the appropriate toast, and at the end of the evening the Brethren joined hands to sing "May we all meet together." With the tune of that final song still in my head, I made my way to Bazza's all-electric car. The ride home was much faster, there were no hold-ups by demented drivers wobbling between lanes or pointless long waits for lights to change. It was a time for reflection. I turned my mind to thinking about four-letter cities, but I could only think of four. How did you do?

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

Thursday 5th February 2026:

Quod Petis Hic Est

"That which you seek is here" is the translation of Thesaurus Lodge's Latin motto. I'd been seeking a relaxing evening without pressure in the company of familiar friendly faces and this is exactly what happened. It was an evening without ceremony as the meeting was the Lodge's "business night" where figurative loose ends are tidied up, next year's Worshipful Master is elected and preparations instigated for the Installation Ceremony next month.

The WM, W Bro Craig Stainforth opened the Lodge in due form, though a little shuffling to fill one or two offices delayed the start by a couple of minutes, but I counted eighteen members there and knew that the Senior Deacon, Bro Garreth Millett was hurtling down the M62 from a business meeting in Leeds - he made it in time for the Festive Board, for the business upstairs did not take long. There were the usual salutes (to W Bro Ian Johnson as PAPGM and to me as PGOrg) the minutes were approved and signed and the plethora of reports given. The L3891 Secretary, Bro Malcolm Dale enlightened us with upcoming events; these can been found on the Provincial website of course.

Bro Dale read out a letter from the Daisy Appeal, which has been well supported by Thesaurus Lodge in the past, and a motion to contribute to this worthy cause was passed. A plethora or reports followed and it was good to hear of two joining members in the pipeline (they will be ballotted for at the next meeting) and an increase in Chapter membership too.

Some discussion ensued regarding the upkeep of the building at Beverley Road; there are always ongoing tasks to be undertaken. Watch this space next year when the Thesaurus Lodge has had a little longer to settle in.

Worshipful Brother Nigel Bell was nominated nem con to take the Chair for the ensuing year and he was escorted by the DC, W Bro Mike East to a seat on the dais. He thanked the Brethren for the confidence places in him.

W Bros Keil, Johnson and Harrison were recognised for their thirty years service to the Lodge.

A committee for next year was chosen, and it was a pleasure to see the involvement of the younger Brethren.

I took a photograph of the Brethren, and W Bro Richard East, being tall, borrowed my phone for a snapshot of the incoming and outgoing masters with the bright Thesaurus banner behind them. That which you seek is here.

The Festive Board was German based - the chicken schnitzel was delightful. Even more satisfactory was the company I found myself with - it was a friendly meeting without moans and groans (sometimes when in the company of some of the elderly Brethren instead of stimulating conversation it can be more of an organ recital.)

A good meeting, good meal and good company. And we finished early - in time for me to write this report before bed.

Eddie Wildman, Organist.

 

Wednesday 4th February 2026:

Kingston Lodge Discussion

report by Eddie Wildman

W Bro Wayne Walker opened the Lodge efficiently - there were more in attendance than I'd expected; W Bro Trevor Collinson looked a little lonely as the only visitor, but this was soon remedied when the Inner Guard, Bro Jake Mcleavy admitted W Bro Sean Carroll, DC for the Assistant Provincial Grand Master who demanded admission. It was of course a pleasure to admit them both, and the business continued with the signing of the minutes.

I confess I'd been a little concerned about this meeting, for there were some widely divergent views aired. The subject matter concerned the attendance of the Ladies on Lodge nights - not as part of the Lodge or indeed at the festive board, but as a convenient means of convening while their husbands were otherwise occupied. I'll not bore the reader with the views expressed and the personalities involved, but it had worried me that there was serious potential for Lodge division; too often I have attended meetings where matters have got out of hand as irrelevencies turn into slights and the Lodges schismed.

Friendly advice from the APGM focussed on this: "I'm not here to judge," said W Bro Cox, "but as an observer. and, I hope, to see everything done in a spirit of Masonic friendliness." This gentle caveat was salutary. 

An immediate solution was not apparent, but the means to achieve one became increasingly clearer. It was reiterated quite correctly that a committee can only recommend, and that to achieve parity, everyone should have the opportunity to respond to questions and indeed ask their own. "In short," W Bro Cox continued, "Have the ground rules been set? Is due process being followed? The answer 'The Ladies can/can't come' is not a solution when what is needed is proper Lodge involvement in the way it is going." An awareness of the current attitudes of both UGLE and the Province should not be without influence, he argued, but compromise is essential.

Trevor Collinson, (Provincial Troubleshooter, as one Brother rather flippantly remarked,) said that Provincial advice and assistance could possibly be tendered if needed, and repeated the point made about keeping the issues relevent. I felt a sneaking admiration at the way the Brethren were being asked to think - "Is this fit for purpose?" "Are you thinking as friends?"

Establishing the parameters is not going to be an easy task whilst moving with the times; fortunately the Lodge has an efficient Secretary. It was strongly suggested that the Secretary communicates with all the Kingston Lodge Members with a set date for responses. W Bro Trevor Collinson again said that Provincial assistance was at hand should assistance be needed with documantation.

W Bro Wayne Walker has the admirable skill of listening (being virtually deaf in one ear I found it difficult to follow some of what was said) and ably closed the discussion with calm authority.

Reports followed, and some items were noted as being worthy of Provincial publication. The Secretary, W Bro Neil Armstrong was pleased to announce that Kingston 1010 Brethren had managed to wrest the Travelling Gavel from the clutches of Lord Bolton Lodge. I was privileged to present a Master Mason's Certificate to the Junior Deacon, Bro Mike Mcleavy. Here he is pictured with the Worshipful Master.

The Lodge was closed and the Brethren retired for braised steak at the festive board. Lovely!

Eddie Wildman, organist.

 

 

 

Monday 2nd February 2026:

Humber Installed Masters Lodge 2494

report by Eddie Wildman

The processional panoply exemplified dignified deportment; the Humber Installed Masters Lodge was graced by a plethora of tail-coated Grand Lodge Officers. A ruler demands admission to a Lodge, but there were others there of similar status: W Bro Chris Thomas, Senior Warden of HIM and the Assistant Grand Master in Charge of the Province and I as Organist were in the Lodge already for the opening, but when the team of Active Provincial Officers arrived, and the Past Provincial Rulers, it was even more impressive. The Worshipful Master, W Bro Ian Syddall, apologised to those below the dais if their eyes were dazzled by the gold braid on display. The North East Corner gleamed with UGLE Officers: Terry Burt,  Hiten Thaker (in his distinctive bow tie), Ian Johnson, Richard Smedley, Jonathan Smith, Jeffrey Gillyon, David Burnett and Mike Graham. This was a tribute not only to the incoming WM, but to last year's Master, W Bro Ian Syddall PPSGW, who had suffered a tragic bereavement during his year of office, rendering his Lodge attendance impossible until recently.

The Lodge was opened without incident and the gleaming cohort in dark blue and gold was escorted to its place in the northeast corner by the Provincial Deputy Director of Ceremonies, W Bro Ben Kelly. W Bro Mark Iveson, Assistant Provincial Grand Master took the Chair and introduced his team. A portion of the Ancient Charges were read and the minutes of the last meeting approved.

The Lodge was opened in the 2° and the Master Elect, W Bro Hiten Thaker was presented by the Lodge DC, W Bro Craig Maurier. The former assured W Bro Syddall that he would accept the Office of Master of the Lodge and perform the duties thereof, and recited his obligation to fulfill these tasks.

W Bro Syddall raised the Lodge through the 3° and declared it a Board of Installed Masters, wherein he reminded Bro Hiten of the significance of the Three Great Lights in Masonry. The Master Elect having experienced the historical addendum and the figurative application of the various working tools, was invested with the collar of WM and placed in the Chair of King Solomon.

The gavel (in this case an elegant setting maul) was transferred to the new Master's keeping, and Lodge Warrant (1893) and the Centenary Warrant were presented.

The congratulations took ages!

The Installing DC proclaimed the Master in the East, West and South as the Lodge was lowered to the 1°.

 

The investiture of the Officers was brief - the ceremonial practiced in many private Lodges introduces each Officer to the WM; indeed, the principle Officers, W Bros Barrie Jeffery and Kevin Priestley were taken to the dais, but the others were lined up and given their collars.

The APGM gave the address to the Master; I was privileged to address the Wardens, and  W Bro Adrian Hayward gave an immaculate address to the Brethren from the pedestal - a challenging piece of ritual. (Second from the right.)

W Bro Smedley sang the anthem "Hail Masonry Divine", the Brethren joining in the chorus.

W Bro Thaker thanked the installing officers and W Bro Syddall responded, taking the opportunity to thank the Brethren for the support they had given hime during his difficult year. Greetings were extended from UGLE, the Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings, and from the visitors through Brother Paul Hillary.

There was a brief break for photographs - W Bro Hillary took the group photograph so the I could appear on it with my Grand Lodge Collar - thanks, Paul! (front row, third from the right!) I managed a snapshot of the WM and his family brother, Bimal Thaker of Sandeman Lodge 1374 which meets in Great Queen St., London.

Luke Pyrah's chicken dish was succulent; we had finished early enough to be able to enjoy a decent meal - too often this is not the case. The APGM in Charge declined to respond to the fourth toast, and, W Bro Mark Iveson responded to the WM's fulsome fifth toast, acknowledging the experience of his audience, which included many of the executive, and dilating briefly on the process following the early retirement of the RWPGM, advising against speculation as in the circumstances there was a procedure in place, and that decisions were for UGLE to make. He reminded the Brethren of their responsibilities as Masons.

Right Worshipful W Bro Geffrey Gillyon proposed the toast to the new WM and his team, speaking of their experience as Masons, and exhorting those who hadn't, to join the Humber Installed Principals Chapter which meets in Driffield. He also referred to Hiten's community work in the acquisition of the old Park Street Masonic Hall as a meeting place for the indigenous Indian community. In response Hiten said he felt humbled to have served, and outlined an intention to develop the involvement of those Brethren in the five to seven years between taking the Master's Chair and becoming Provincial Officers. He had several people to thank, including W Bro Maurier, who had relinquished taking the Master's Chair this year in order to facilitate Hiten taking the Master's Chair in his Brother's London Lodge next year. The Masters Song was beautifully rendered by W Bro Richard Smedley.

W Bro Terry Fisher gave the toast to the IPM and Ian Syddall responded, sincerely thanking everyone for their understanding and support. W Bro Smedley again sang: "Bless this Lodge" which met with enthusiastic applause.

The toast to the eighteen visitors was given by the Senior Warden  and W Bro Emmanuel Musah of the Hull Old Grammarians' Lodge 5129 responded, remarking  on the excellence of the ceremony and the tangible brotherhood exhibited. The Junior Warden gave the toast to the Absent Brethren, the WM had but a few "Parish Notes" (a hateful term - we are not a defined administrative area for civil government nor an ecclesiastical division) and W Bro Smedley rounded off the evening melodically with the Tyler's Toast "Happy to meet again."

Well fed both mentally and physically, I left with W Bros Anthony Cadle and Alex MCallum (Old Hymerians 6885) - Alex was driving and it was a pleasure to be chauffeured. We all agreed it had been a lovely night.

Peter Stokes' report may be found on the St Michael website. 

Eddie Wildman, Organist.

 

 

Sunday 1st February 2026:

Semper Paratus, Parare in Posterum

report by Eddie Wildman

The Semper Paratus Lodge 10076 convened at 11:30 at Trinity Lane Beverley: key players had been rehearsing earlier than that. My journey there was stress free, as Matthew Barber had kindly picked me up. "You'll be able to have a drink." he told me.

The WM, W Bro Mark Iveson, opened the Lodge fluently. Despite there being members from all over the Province, with many variations in ritual, the Emulation working shone through; it was a disciplined ceremony. The Lodge was very well attended - there were, I believe, in excess of fifty Brethren in the Lodge Room - from my seat in the organ alcove I was unable to see everyone. Greetings were extended to the Brethren of UGLE and Provincial Officers, W Bro Chris Thomas being saluted as the Assistant Provincial Grand Master in Charge. The dispensation for this meeting was read. the minutes were passed and signed. 

A Treasurer and DC were appointed: W Bro Ben Kelly immediately asserting his authority in the latter role. The WM remarked "We have Brethren here from all over the Province, but Ben will keep us right." (Indeed, when I stood to order according to the Humber ritual, I received an admonitory glance from the DC warning me to smarten up.)

There was a successful ballot for three joining members, and another for the Initiation of Mr Duncan Collins. 

I will not elaborate on the ritual, except to say the the Candidate was well conducted by the Junior Deacon, W Bro Russ Dickinson, obligated by the WM who then instructed Bro Collins in the significance of the Great Lights in Freemasonry. Other Brethren were equally impressive with their delivery of the ritual, W Bro Tony Dyer left the SW's Chair to explain the signs. He also invested Bro Collins with the Entered Apprentice Apron.

The significance of the Northeast Corner was explained, and the Working Tools were described in the Southeast Corner.

Bro Collins retired to restore himself back to his suit and tie and in his absence a report was given by the Almoner, W Bro David Oakes, and from the Festival 29 Chairman, W Bro Martin Eggermont (£710,000 already raised.) Three joining members were proposed after which Bro Collins returned and the Ancient Charge was delivered.

The closing was as slick as the opening. Greetings were given from the Humber Lodge by WM Malcolm Forbes (supported by Matthew and me) and Kingston Lodge 1010 in addition to many others - I believe there were eighteen visitors representing nine Sister Lodges.

The Festive Board was convivial and as Matthew had intimated, I was able to have a drink: before the meal began, the first five toasts were given. Grace was said by the Chaplain, Bro John Wilkinson and the Brethren tucked into a Sunday Lunch comprising Chicken Pie with peas and potatoes followed by a healthy Cheeseboard.

The toast to the Candidate was proposed by W Bro Russ Dickinson, and the Adamantine Chain was delivered by Bro Collins' seconder, W Bro Tony Dyer. Bro Collins responded eloquently. W Bro Hiten Thaker (JW) proposed the toast to the visitors, W Bro Malcolm Forbes responded.

The raffle raised £210 for the Festival. Perare in Posterum - preparing for the future.

The Brethren took their leave of each other and I enjoyed a stress-free ride back home - thanks, Matthew! He smiled wryly. "That's the weekend over," he said, "Back to work tomorrow."

Photos: W Bros Hiten Thaker, JW, Chris Thomas, APGM in Charge, Mark Iveson, WM, Bro Duncan Collins, EA and W Bro Tony Dyer, SW; Worshipful Master Mark Iveson with Entered Apprentice Duncan Collins.

Malcolm Forbes' account may be found on the Andrew Marvell blog page.

Eddie Wildman, hon Organist.

 

  

Monday 26th January 2026:

Marvellous Meeting

by Eddie Wildman

The Andrew Marvell Lodge 5642 is the only local Lodge to use the tune "Innocents" for the opening ode, and it is sung as the Master and his Wardens enter the Lodge. This was the case today, and the singing was unusually fine, partly because there were lots of visitors. In fact, singing punctuated the evening very pleasantly.

The WM, Worshipful Brother Tom Cawkwell  opened the Lodge with his customary flair. The DC, W Bro Richard Green announced there were two UGLE Officers present, myself and W Bro Richard Smedley, and we were saluted. There was a report, and W Bro Steven Burns of the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge 9611 announced that W Bro Ian Syddall PPSGW was waiting outside, representing the Provincial Grand Master on this occasion. An escort was formed to welcome him, and he took his place next to the WM with great dignity.

The Secretary, W Bro John Towler read a portion of the Ancient Charges, the minutes were passed and signed. The usual business done, the Master announced the main thrust of the evening, the Installation of Bro Ian Fuller as Master of the Lodge, and the investiture and installation of his officers.

It went like clockwork - a great deal of rehearsal must have gone into this. The Entered Apprentice retired, and the Lodge was raised to the 2°. W Bro Green presented Brother Fuller, who stood as the Master and the Secretary outlined the duties that would be expected of him and demanded to know if he was able and willing to undertake them. Undaunted, he replied affirnatively. He then took an obligation to confirm this.

The Lodge was opened in the 3° and all offices were declared vacant, the collars being returned. Senior Brethren took the principle roles, with W Bro Green as Installing DC. This worthy Brother requested all below the rank of an Installed Master to retire, with the exception of Brother Fuller.

I will not reveal here what transpired in the Board of Installed Masters, except to say that  the Master Elect undertook another obligation. Tom was impressive with his delivery and Ian was well installed as Worshipful Master.

The Lodge was lowered through the degrees, the Brethren entering appropriately and Worshipful Brother Ian Donald Fuller was proclaimed as Master in each degree. The addresses were given: W Bro Richard Smedley addressed the Master, I addressed the Wardens and W Bro Adrian Hayward addressed the Brethren. Richard Bublé Smedley than sang the Masonic anthem, the graceful phrases soaring through the Lodge Room, and the Brethren joined in the choruses.

The new Worshipful Master thanked the Installing Team, wielding his gavel with a master plumber's expertise and continued the normal business of the Lodge with commendable confidence. Greetings were given (there were sixteen visitors - the Humber Lodge's four members being outdone by the several from the Thesaurus Lodge) and the WM closed the Lodge with efficient celerity. The closing ode (Tune: St Sylvester, by Hull-born Bacchus Dykes) was sung before photographs were taken and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board below.

Various songs followed the delicious steak pie and Eton Mess; the national anthem, of course, and the Absent Brethren song (tune again by Dykes) but on this occasion W Bro Smedley delighted everyone with his musical talents in his rendition of the Worshipful Masters Song and, at the end, "Happy to meet again." W Bro Ian Syddall was eloquent in his address, exhorting the Brethren to become familiar with the Portal App, a uniquely useful tool for members of the Craft. I'll not dilate on the other toasts and responses except to say that W Bro Ben Kelly's response on behalf of the visitors was mendacious but highly amusing and I am sure it will be repeated on Facebook and WhatsApp over the next week or so.

It had been a splendid evening, and not too late - W Bro Stebbings gave me a lift home so that I could finish this report before midnight. W Bro Malcolm Forbes told me he would have the evening written up by tomorrow for the Andrew Marvell website. "Your reports are artistic, Eddie," he said, "but I stick to the facts." 

Photographs: the Andrew Marvell Lodge logo showing the Hull born 17th century metaphysical poet; Rep of the RWPGM, W Bro Ian Syddall (top man) and left to right, W Bro Alan Smelt, Senior Warden, W Bro Ian D Fuller, Worshipful Master, and Bro Ian Walker, Junior Warden; a gathering of some of the Brethren at the Installation - the bright red apron of the Provincial Stewards Lodge distinguishing W Bro Steve Burns, DC for the Rep (some of the Brethren escaped to the bar); and the Worshipful Master at the Festive Board enjoying W Bro Ben Kelly's jokes.

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist.

 

 

 

Friday 23rd January 2026 am.

Myton Proclamation

report by Eddie Wildman

Myton Lodge 9808 is a daylight Lodge and tends to a more elderly membership as most of the Brethren are retired. The Worshipful Master, W Bro Stephen Graham Ives opened the Lodge at 11.30; there had been some moving about of officers and several stand-ins were required. W Bro David Johnstone - transferred from the SW's Chair to act as DC - did a brilliant job, though I was surprised to discover that nobody had noticed the absent Inner Guard. I stood in for him,  moving across from the organ.

W Bro Nigel Bell was admitted and he announced that the Representative of the RWPGM, W Bro Mike Graham, was in attendence requesting admission. An escort was formed to receive him and he took his place at the right of the WM.

The minutes were passed and W Bro Ives declared all offices vacant. He was proclaimed as WM for the ensuing year. It was not necessary for the obligation to be repeated, and he appointed and invested those of his Officers who were present. It was later remarked that these were disappointingly few; it is important that the declining membership problem be addressed promptly.

I gave greetings for the Humber Lodge, W Bro Malcolm Forbes as a Myton member (Treasurer and stand-in JD) and visitor Steve Wright (Junior Warden) also stood. W Bro Neil Armstrong gave greetings from Kingston Lodge 1010. Malcolm Forbes' report may be found on the Andrew Marvell website.

I was away by 12.30; the remaining Brethren dining with their ladies. But I was going to the Ridings Tablers Chapter Installation later that day and didn't want to overload!

Eddie Wildman, gatecrasher.

 

 

Thursday 22nd January 2026:

An Initiation to start the Year for St Michael 7833

report by Eddie Wildman

The WM, W Bro David Thomas Whittall opened the Lodge at 6:15, The attendance was good: there were only two stand-in Officers, W Bro Stephen Prior as ADC and Bro Tony Tyler as Inner Guard. The "flight check" of essential Brethren was taken, the minutes of the last meeting confirmed, and the Lodge was under way for the main business of the evening.

A knock on the door from the Tyler, W Bro Peter Wright announced the new Candidate for Freemasonry, Mr David Williamson. He was received by the Senior and Junior Deacons, W Bro Terry James Lynn and Bro John Irving Burton, the latter conducting him efficiently through the ceremony. The Chaplain, W Bro Terence William Black delivered the necessary prayers and the Worshipful Master obligated Mr Williamson as the Brethren stood to order (some according to Humber working, some to Emulation - the myriad differences in detail are always interesting to observe.)

W Bro Whittall explained the six lights in Freemasonry to Brother Williamson before instructing him in the signs and tokens used in the 1°. Bro Williamson was conducted first to the Junior Warden in the South, W Bro Stehen Norman Longthorpe and then to the Senior Warden in the East, W Bro John Stanley Broughton to show he had grasped these essential secrets, and the latter invested him with the Entered Apprentice Apron.

The Northeast Corner address was given by me - a privilege I was happy to fulfill, explaining the distinguishing characteristic of a Freemason's heart. W Bro Peter James Stokes explained the Working Tools of the Entered Apprentice and their moral application. Bro David Broughton, Lodge Treasurer pointed out the Warrant, the authority by which we work, accompanied by the Book of Constitutions and the bylaws of the Lodge whereafter Bro Williamson retired to restore himself to his suit.

During the interim, reports were given and an alms collection made by the Almoner.

On Bro Williamson's return the Ancient Charge was delivered by the Chaplain. The Master welcomed Bro David into the Lodge, and gave him a collection of reading material including a welcome pack, a letter from the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, notes on the Pathway programme etc before closing the Lodge in due form.

The convivial Festive Board included the singing of the Visitors Song by W Bro Lynn before the response for the visitors by Bro Wayne Sutherland of Minerva Lodge 250 and the traditional Auld Lang Syne when the Brethren joined hands for this parting chorus.

It had been a lovely evening - and I won a litre bottle of whisky in the raffle (which raised £100.)

[Photograph: David Williamson, Entered Apprentice, with David Whittall, Worshipful Master.]

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

 

Saturday 17th January 2026:

Technical Lodge Second Degree

by Ed Thompson

[Note from Eddie Wildman: I had the privilege of mentoring Technical Lodge's Entered Apprentice during the following ceremony but the Senior Deacon, Brother Ed Thompson agreed to do a report for the benefit of our readers. He also took the photograph. Here it is.]

After our December Meeting and Christmas festivities, Technical Lodge 5666 was primed and ready to get to business this New Year.

Presiding over his first ceremony of the year, the WM W Bro Aresh Vesali opened the lodge at 6.30pm. The main business of the evening was to pass Bro Paul Draper to a Fellow Craft. However the first job at hand for the Brethren was to ballot for a new member to be initiated into the Lodge – the ballot proved clear and successful.

Then came the start of the ceremony. Bro Paul Draper, having proved himself by answering the questions posed to him by the WM, was given the password for entry to a Fellow Craft Lodge by Senior Warden Bro Adam Tunnifcliffe. Guided out of the Lodge by stand-in Junior Deacon W Bro Keith Challis, he retired and went to prepare himself with the help of the Tyler W Bro Ian Parkinson. The Lodge was then opened in the Second Degree.

Mainly due to illness, Technical Lodge had a few stand-ins for this evening, namely – W Bro Paul Hillary as Inner Guard, W Bro Keith Challis as Junior Deacon and W Bro Mark Cusack as Immediate Past Master.

When the knocks came from the Tyler,  the Inner Guard admitted Bro Draper in due and antient form and I, as Senior Deacon, conducted him for the rest of the ceremony, alongside W Bro Keith Challis for part of it. After communicating his knowledge of the password from an Entered Apprentice to a Fellow Craft, Bro Draper was then led to the Pedestal in the proper mode of the 2°. W Bro Vesali obligated him before the Communications were given by Bro Nigel Goldthorpe after which Bro Draper repeated his acquired information to both Wardens.

The Senior Warden Bro Adam Tunnicliffe invested him with his apron before delegating me as Senior Deacon to advance Bro Draper to the South East Corner of the Lodge – this address was given by W Bro Ian Parkinson who temporarily handed over his duties as Tyler to perform the ritual. Then, W Bro Mark Cusack explained the Working Tools of a Fellow Craft Freemason. The Second Degree Charge was given by Chaplain Bro Bill Turner-Bone.

Now a Fellow Craft, Bro Paul Draper retired from the Lodge to restore himself to the comforts of his suit.

The Entered Apprentice, Bro Michael Carr and W Bro Wildman were admitted after the Lodge was lowered to the First Degree, along with Bro Draper a little bit later.

Due to their absence at Installation, Bro Alan Jopling was reinvested as Treasurer and Bro Michael Carr was invested as Assistant Secretary – Michael’s first office in Technical Lodge. Reports were then given by Officers of the Technical Lodge.

Notably, a report was given by W Bro Dave Green that the Technical Lodge LOI would restart on Friday 6th February and W Bro Steve Berry notified the Brethren that Technical Chapter was closed until March 3rd - the date in which we have our Installation.

The festive board was pleasant and joyful and the Brethren departed in good spirits after a smooth, successful and fun night overall.

Bro Ed Thompson, Senior Deacon, Technical Lodge

 

 

Wednesday 14th January 2026:

A Good Start

by Eddie Wildman

There is something rather special about being invested with one's third degree apron. It is often a new one; the Candidate may have been advised to purchase one online, or it may be second-hand, having belonged to a mason in the Lodge who has been promoted to a higher rank. But whatever the case, at that moment when the Senior Warden invests you with an apron that is now your own, there is an instant when you think - wow, I'm a Master Mason now!

It is an important step forward on the Masonic journey. Brother Andrew Start of the Minerva Lodge 250 stepped up to the moment magnificently. The WM W Bro Richard Marshall opened the Lodge with admirable poise (especially as he'd only just arrived at the Lodge after seeing his brother whisked into hospital), received the Assistant Provincial Grand Master  W Bro Steve Cox under the direction of Bro Lee Atkinson, ProvGStwd, and raised the Lodge to the 2°, upon which the essential questions leading to the next stage were well answered by the Candidate. ("That's a good Start," I thought to myself.)

There were several stand-ins - including Bro David Fee who not only took the place of the substitute JW (the original on holiday and his replacement laid low with the lurgy) but delivered the traditional history with great aplomb. The Senior Warden, Bro Simon Tompkins presented the Master Mason's Apron with enviable diction, and the Retrospect was divided between W Bros Jeff Swales, Mike Ogram and Mark Hartley after W Bro Chris Brown had explained the signs used in the third degree. Bro Peter Willoughby modestly explained the Tracing Board and the Working Tools with not so much as a comma out of place. It was a good ceremony, despite, as the Lecture Master W Bro Danny Betts remarked "a couple of last minute hiccups."

The Lodge was lowered in due form, reports followed, the APGM retired and the closing hymn was sung. I was able to take a photograph of Brother Start in his Master Mason's apron with its light blue trim and three rosettes.

At the festive board W Bro Steve Cox spoke of the processes being undergone when new leadership in the Province is imminent. "There is an etablished procedure," he said, "and idle speculation is beyond our remit." It was good advice, delivered directly and persuasively, setting the minds of the Brethren to rest.

I was kindly given a lift home by the DC, W Bro David Green, who had kept us all admirably in order.

 

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist.

 

 

 

Saturday 10th January 2026:

Birds of a Feather

by Eddie Wildman

For the second time in the space of a few days I had the pleasure of seeing a father obligating his son (see 8th January below.) Again at the Masonic Hall, Beverley Road, this time it was the Lord Bolton Lodge performing a third degree ceremony. There was a dozen visitors though L3263 itself was a little light on numbers: the JW's elderly mother had suffered a fall precluding his presence. I volunteered to explain the Working Tools of the degree to Brother George Bird, who was conducted round the Lodge Room by his brother Brother Jamie Bird (pictured with the Senior Deacon's collar and staff of office) and obligated by his father, W Bro Colin Bird. W Bro Gerald Lock, having been invested as Senior Warden that evening was an old hand and fulfilled his role magnificently, the Lodge Secretary W Bro Martin Tompkins took the Junior Warden's Chair and the Lodge Support Officer, W Bro Neil Armstrong acted as Secretary on this occasion. (His literary skills are well known - see his report on this event on the Kingston Website.) Marcus Whereat, also from the Kingston Lodge 1010 stood in as Inner Guard.

It was good to see Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts there: they were excluded from the third degree ceremony, of course, but each being equipped with a copy of the First Degree Tracing Board, had plenty of material for discussion while the ceremony was enacted in the Lodge Room.

I'll not spoil the mystery of the third degree for anyone who has not yet experienced it; suffice it to say that it was well done and now Bro George is a fully fledged Master Mason.

The 2° and 1° Brethren were readmitted and reports were given. W Bro Malcolm Cuthbert, WM of the Old Hymerian Lodge 6885 made a claim for the travelling gavel, which has been in Lord Bolton's possession for over two years. However, W Bro Michael Price, WM of the Kingston Lodge 1010 submitted a counter claim, and his Lodge, outnumbering the Old Hymerian Lodge by a small margin, took away the Travelling Gavel at the end of the Festive Board. (Pictured L to R: W Bro Bird passing the TG to W Bro Price.)

It had been a jolly evening, and a good start to the year.

Eddie Wildman, Organist.

 

 

Friday 9th January 2026:

De la Pole Lodge's First Meeting of the Year

by Eddie Wildman

W Bro Malcolm Forbes, Worshipful Master of both the de la Pole Lodge 1605 and the Humber Lodge 57 opened the former promptly at 7:00, and wished the Brethren a Happy New Year. He then gave a Masonic history and eulogy for the late W Bro Malcolm Brocklesby who after a ten year remission from cancer fell suddenly ill and died within a month.

The Lodge accounts were passed, and then the Secretary arrived, barely recovered from a recent illness, but certainly fit enough to read the minutes of the last regular meeting. These, too, were passed nem com.

The main thrust of the meeting was a talk by the Senior Warden, Bro John Holmes (pictured.) He had researched his subject well, and alluded to an essay on ritual by an eminent Masonic author. This, I felt, was interesting. but somewhat speculative and gave rise to more questions than those it purported to answer. I spoke with John afterwards, and pointed out that the author he'd researched had perhaps not properly understood the true meaning of ritual as he'd alluded to the written word (and that, too, demanded more questions.)

"What do your white gloves symbolise?" I asked. "Purity," he answered with no hesitation. "Then tell me," I said, "when you put on your gloves before the meeting, are you not emblematically purifying your thoughts and actions before the meeting commences? And if that is so, is not putting on your gloves part of the ritual?" He nodded, thinking it through - we put on aprons, the officers have collars; there is spoken ritual associated with all of these, but it is not said aloud at every meeting; it is assumed to be known and practised by every Brother wearing the Blue.

One of the L1605 members is a Reverend. "Tell me," I asked him as he passed the Senior Warden's Chair, "What do the thirty-nine buttons on your cassock represent?" He smiled. "They signify the thirty-nine Articles of Religion, a doctrinal statement of the Anglican Church. However, some argue that they represent the thirty-nine lashes endured by Saint Paul." John nodded, seeing where the question was leading. Who was to say which answer was correct? Or more meaningful to the personing buttoning his cassock? Could both be correct?" Symbolism and ritual are slippery concepts.

I thoroughly commend the learning of ritual, i.e. the conscious consideration of each aspect of it and its commitment to memory, because only then can it become inwardly meaningful. But as far as Freemasonry is concerned, it is far more than putting on a clean shirt and reciting the words. I am grateful to John for the opportunity of airing these thoughts - and I have no doubt they might meet with some discussion at the next Lodge of Instruction.

Reports followed, greetings were given, and the WM closed the Lodge.

Eddie Wildman

 

Thursday 8th January 2026:

Old Hymerians start the year with a third generation third degree

by Eddie Wildman

I had the privilege of playing the organ at the Old Hymerian Lodge 6885 at the Masonic Hall, Beverley Road, Hull. It was well attended not only by Old Hymerians but by Brethren from other Lodges, not all in this Province, including myself some of whom participated in the third degree ceremony.

Thus the secrets were communicated by a member of the Lodge of St Michael 7883, the Sprig of Acacia by W Bro Martin Read of the Lodge of St Matthew 1447 in North Lincilnshire.

The Candidate, Brother William Cadle was obligated by his father, W Bro Anthony Cadle, who also delivered the Retrospect magnificently. Grandfather David Cadle smiled proudly from the sidelines. I managed to take a snapshot of the Worshipful Master, W Bro Malcolm Cuthbert with the Cadle clan at the end of the ceremony. It had been superbly performed, but I'll reveal nothing of it here, other than to observe the OH working differs in detail to any I have ever seen. That it was in the presence of three generations of Cadles and involved other Lodges was a bonus - and a great credit to the OH Lodge.

Brother Guy Hobson of the St Matthew Lodge Lincs responded to the toast to the visitors at the festive board, saying on behalf of all the visitors how much he'd enjoyed the ceremony. Peter Stokes' account may be seen on https://www.lodge7833.org.uk/?Blog_Page

Eddie Wildman, guest organist.

 

Saturday 20th December 2025:

Technical's Christmas Bash

by Eddie Wildman

It was Arash Vesali's first working night in the Chair of Technical Lodge 5666 and he acquitted himself well in both the opening and closing of the Lodge. There was little business to transact, and the reports were brief; the Brethren (I counted twenty-seven of us, I think, including visitor W Bro Malcolm Forbes who gave greetings as WM of the premier Lodge and Andrew Marvell 5642.) As in previous years, the Beverley Male Voice Choir then regaled the Brethren, wives and visitors, it was good to see the Lodge Room full. Elizabeth Wilson, Musical Director conducted (and sang a beautiful solo in "Mary's Boy Child" while Nigel Clarke, Assistant Musical Director led the choir, all brilliantly accompanied by Amy Butler.

The festive board was again up to Luke Pyrah's high standards - eight tables of hungry folk enjoyed the food and the ambience - once again, great care had been taken in preparing the dining room. Several of the choir stayed to eat, including W Bro Terry Lynn of the Lodge of St Michael 7833 and W Bro John Chapman of the Technical Lodge. W Bro Rob Atkinson was DC.

As the "Twelve Days of Christmas" had been interactively performed uptairs (followed by the whimsical "Twelve Days after Christmas") it was wisely decided to forgo another rendition, but the well-fed audience (augmented by the Beverley Choristers) gave a sterling rendition of Adeste Fideles and a couple of Christmas songs.

The WM then asked for volunteers to assist in a hand bell quiz ("I'll name that tune in five") after which the raffle was held. It had raised £275, a worthy effort!

This concluded the evening and I hurried away: I had to be up early in the morning for a holiday adventure and intended to finish this blog before midnight.

Just about made it! Merry Christmas, folks!

Eddie Wildman

 

 

Thursday 18th December 2025:

Lodge of St Michael celebrates Christmas

by Eddie Wildman

"Humber may be the premier Lodge," said the WM, concluding the briefest meeting of the Lodge 7833 I have ever known, "but the Lodge of St Michael is the happiest Lodge in the Province."

The circumstances of this Emulation Lodge's Christmas gathering were unusual, in that an outside let precluded setting up the dining room until after six o' clock. While appreciative that outside lets bring in much-needed money for the upkeep of the building, some people opined that outside lets should not interfere with the Masonic business of Dagger Lane. "It's the tail wagging the dog," one crusty old officer grumbled. Brethren arriving for the Masonic meeting beforehand were ushered upstairs to hang up their coats; there was no swift drink at the bar. The WM, W Bro David Whittall wisely decided that a minimalist meeting was in order, so that most Brethren could arrive with their wives and friends after the outside letters had departed, and a post-Lodge superteam could be put together to organise the dining room while new arrivals greeted each other over preprandial drinks. 

The Masonic part of the evening was remarkably short - and successful. A scratch team of officers took their places and the WM opened in short form. The essential business was swiftly dispatched, a ballot for a new member was taken (he would be at the meal and celebrations downstairs with his partner) and the Brethren retired, by which time the downstairs was ready for a whirlwind onslaught by Linda, wife of the WM.

The only word for the superbly arranged dining room was Wow! Every table - indeed every corner featured Christmas decorations, Santa Clauses in sleighs, little gifts, Christmas nutcrackers, lollipops. Guests were now arriving (the Lodge of St Michael has a strong social tradition) and the mood was lovely.

Festive fare, raffles, a quiz, carols and Christmas songs led by W Bro Petrer Stokes, and the inevitable Twelve Days of Christmas; all were enjoyed. Well done, Lodge of St Michael - and especially to David and Linda for their superlative efforts in making the night a success! Sharing a table with John Burton and the Chapman family, who threw themselves enthusiastically into the spirit of the occasion. I managed to get a snapshot of Denise, wondering if she could manage another Christmas pudding. "Don't be greedy," admonished Jack, "Just pass me the cheese and biscuits."

What a splendid evening in the happiest Lodge in the Province.

Eddie Wildman, accompanist.

 

Monday 15th December 2025:

Holderness Christmas Lodge

by Eddie Wildman

The dining room was delightfully decorated; much care and attention had gone into perfecting each table. The splendid setting was perfect for the traditional Christmas celebrations of the Holderness Lodge 3563, to which Lodge widows and wives are invited. Bro James Anderson, Junior Deacon (he and his wife were responsible for the superb decoration of the dining room) had his work cut out making last-minute adjustments to the seating, but everything was done with a smile.

The waitresses (and waiter) were smiling too, beforehand, taking a well-earned breather before the onslaught as the Brethren and ladies listened to a selection of Christmas music from the Wedding Belles upstairs. The meeting itself had been very short; the Secretary read a portion of the ancient charges: "You may enjoy yourselves with innocent mirth" and the reports were brief, after which the singers and their audience gathered in the Lodge Room.

A number of widows on my table were smiling too, delighted at the Christmas boxes they hadn't expected, and pleased to greet each other again. But there were plenty of younger people about too, enjoying the ambience and the food. Streamers were launched, crackers were pulled, and the background of Christmas music gave a discreet background to the sound of people being happy.

The Worshipful Master, Danny Betts also had a smile on his face. I took a photo on my phone and showed it to him. "We don't get any better looking as we get older, do we?" he said. "Speak for yourself," I thought, but was too polite to voice it.

And then there was the singing of that Yuletide favourite, The Twelve Days of Christmas and everybody joined in heartily. Well done, Holderness Lodge - it's always a pleasure to visit!

 Eddie Wildman, guest organist.

 

Friday 12th December 2025:

Seasonal Social at de la Pole 1605

by Eddie Wildman

Newly installed into both the Humber Lodge 57 and the de la Pole Lodge 1605, W Bro Malcolm Forbes (pictured) was enjoying yet another Christmas Celebration. The dining room at Beverley Road was lit up like Santa's grotto and Masons with their wives, guests and visitors took their places. To the background of seasonal music, Malcolm, wearing a retro jacket and a hat from a cracker, welcomed the six tables of guests and invited them to take part in a game of "heads and tails" before tucking into traditional seasonal fare provided by Chef Luke Pyrah and served by the Sea Cadets, this year's Charity for L1605. The Sea Cadets enthusiastically joined in the National Anthem before the meal began. It was a happy and convivial occasion. Following the singing of carols (led by Jimmy Kerr) the Twelve Days of Christmas were sung with a most enthusiastic rendition, but particularly by Bro John Holmes whose fortissimo Partridge in a Pear Tree will be remembered for years to come. The raffle raised a pleasing £250 for Masonic Charities.

 

Eddie Wildman

 

Thursday 11th December 2025:

 

Christmas Cheer at the Old Hymerian Lodge 6885

by Malcolm Forbes

I made a rare visit to the Old Hymerian Lodge for its regular meeting at Beverley Road Masonic Hall. I was one of seven visitors to attend.

On arrival acting Director of Ceremonies W Bro Alex McCallum asked me if I could stand in as Junior Warden for the evening. I quickly gathered a ritual book to familiarise myself with the Emulation ritual of the Lodge. I gathered my thoughts in preparation for a second degree ceremony to pass Bro Nicholas Adams.

The Opening Hymn was sung to the musical accompaniment of Organist W Bro Graham Hunter before the 685th meeting of the Lodge was duly opened by Worshipful Master W Bro Malcolm Cuthbert. The Brethren acclaimed R W Bro Jeffrey Gillyon, the Past Provincial Grand Master, and Senior Warden of the Lodge. The Brethren also acclaimed Grand Lodge Officer W Bro David Greendale.

Following a reading of the portion of the Antient Charges by Lodge Secretary W Bro Robin Alden, the minutes of the previous Lodge meeting held on 13th November were approved.

The main business of the meeting was to pass Bro Adams, who was initiated on 13th March 2025. Stand in Junior Deacon W Bro Roy Holborn confidently guided Bro Adams throughout the ceremony. In the absence of a number of Lodge Officers, the ceremony was conducted smoothly and with professionalism. The explanation of the Second Degree Tracing Board by W Bro Peter Turner stood out and deservedly merited praise from the Brethren.

Once the ceremony concluded Lodge reports were presented. Lodge Almoner R W Bro G Gillyon welcomed back W Bro Turner, who had been unable to attend recent Lodge meetings due to ill health.

There being no propositions or any other business, greetings were given. I gave greetings as Worshipful Master of Humber Lodge 57 and De La Pole Lodge 1605.

It had been a well conducted meeting with the ritualists maintaining the high standards of the Lodge.

At the Festive Board I occupied the Junior Warden's Chair. A traditional Christmas meal was consumed with glee. A full toast list was submitted / proposed.

In his toast to the visitors R W Bro Gillyon jokingly suggested that a form P should be presented to me inviting me to become a joining member of the Lodge. The visitors response came from W Bro Malcolm Grange, the Worshipful Master of Wyke Millennium Lodge 9696, the daughter Lodge of the Old Hymerian Lodge. The two Lodges work closely together to raise money for charity and have supported the recent Provincial Toy Appeal together.

As acting Junior Warden I delivered the parting toast.

It had been a pleasure to be a member of the team which had presented a first class night. There were smiles all round as Lodge Brethren and visitors left at 9.30 pm. I look forward to returning to the Lodge again.

Malcolm Forbes, Acting Junior Warden

 

Wednesday 10th December 2025:

 Fun and frolics at the Lodge of St Andrew 4683

by Malcolm Forbes

 

I made my first visit as the newly installed Worshipful Master of Humber Lodge 57 to the Christmas Lodge meeting of the Lodge of St Andrew at Beverley Road Masonic Hall. Lodge Secretary W Bro Ian Sugarman welcomed myself and Bro Ian Montgomery, a member of the Lodge who had given me a lift in his car, at the main entrance to the building.

As Brethren, family members and guests arrived it was clear that everyone was in party spirit. The younger children present were to enjoy themselves in the bar area throughout the evening playing amongst themselves as the Lodge went upstairs for a short Lodge meeting and Christmas Festive Board in the dining room.

Worshipful Master W Bro James Billaney (pictured) opened the Lodge meeting at 6.30pm. Grand Lodge Officers present W Bro Michael Graham and W Bro Eddie Wildman were acclaimed by the Brethren. W Bro Sugarman read out a portion of the Antient Charges before the minutes of the Lodge meeting held on 12th November 2025 were duly approved.

A ballot to approve the honorary membership of a Brother whose long service to the Lodge was being recognised was left in the hands of the Worshipful Master, who accordingly approved the honorary membership. The Lodge also approved a donation of £500 to a local under 14s football team for shirt sponsorship.

Lodge reports were presented appropriately. All other Lodge business was acted upon by W Bro Sugarman.

As acting Director of Ceremonies W Bro Eddie Brook invited greetings, which were extended by the Grand Lodge Officers present followed by the Provincial Officers present. Greetings were given by two visitors from the Lodge of St Michael 7833 before W Bro Wildman complimented the Master on behalf of Ridings Tablers Lodge 9586. As I gave greetings on behalf of Humber Lodge, W Bro Wildman, the Immediate Past Master, stood up in support. I also gave greetings as Worshipful Master of De La Pole Lodge 1605.

Downstairs Lodge Brethren changed from formal attire to the wearing of Christmas jumpers before entering the dining room. Eight tables were bedecked with a fine display of Christmas decorations as the sixty-seven diners sat down for their meals. I was fortunate to be sat at the same table as W Bro Graham and his wife Liz, W Bro Wildman, Bro Montgomery, and a potential initiate to the Lodge and his partner, who were later to win the general knowledge quiz.

As part of the entertainment for the evening, W Bro Paul Bull had prepared twenty-four dingbat picture questions with a Christmas theme which we chewed over alongside our traditional Christmas meal.Two toasts were given.

Further entertainment was provided by a thirty question general knowledge quiz read out by Senior Warden Bro William Charlton. Unfortunately W Bro Wildman and myself, who teamed up together, were let down by our lack of knowledge of, inter alia, pop culture and were left trailing in the wake of the winners.

During the Festive Board W Bro Wildman entertained the audience on the piano before accompanying the singing of two Christmas carols.

Two raffles were held, the first for a Christmas hamper raised £210 and the second for a fine array of raffle prizes raised £280.

All good things must come to an end. Worshipful Master W Bro Billaney gave the parting toast to a happy bunch of people. It had been a thoroughly enjoyable evening with fine company and fine food.

As Bro Montgomery drove W Bro Wildman and myself back to our respective homes we reflected on a fine evening, which was due to all the hard work of the Lodge, the catering staff and the bar staff.

Malcolm Forbes, WM

 

Tuesday 9th December 2025:

 Humber Lodge Installation

by David Terry

Tuesday 9th December started as a dreich day: rain, leaden skies and unseasonably clammy. I dragged myself off to the second guitar lesson of my life. Even this did not raise my spirits as by arthritic left hand failed miserably to perform correctly under the guidance of my tutor, the ever-patient Kenko!

Kenko came to Hull from Hong Kong some five years ago. It must have been ninety minutes of auditory agony for the poor fellow but he remained inscrutable.

There was a ray of light cast on the day when W Bro Phil Watts offered me a parking space for the evening. That was one concern over, although the late opening of the car park at Zebedee’s Yard is a great step forward for freemasons visiting Humber Lodge. Only three of your precious pounds to park from 6pm to 11pm!

Having changed into Masonic clothing my mood lightened and I set out for Dagger Lane, picking up W Bro Terry Fisher on the way. He was weary having been up from 4am.

On entering the Masonic building my spirits rose as I heard a burble of conversation; the troops were already gathering. The dining room looked resplendent with Christmas decorations aplenty, a top table with three legs perpendicular to it, all richly decorated and bestowed with the traditional poinsettias.

Bro Ben Houghton, Humber Lodge’s excellent Steward, sat patiently taking monies for the festive board whilst silently tearing his hair out as he learned of Brethren who through illness or misfortune were unable to attend but who had booked meals. Ben, you deserve a medal!

By 6.30pm the Brethren were assembled in the Lodge Room. I had a good view of proceedings as I had been invited to be acting Chaplain (the Chaplain had become the acting director of ceremonies). As I looked around the room, I noted that the team bore little resemblance to the team that had taken office back in December 2024! Stand-in Wardens, a stand-in inner guard and a huge thank you to our Provincial Support Officer, W Bro Peter Wright for standing in as Tyler for the evening!

Worshipful Master Edwin Robert Wildman welcomed all attendees, amongst whom were seven visitors. The Lodge was opened confidently and efficiently, after which the Tyler knocked and the Inner Guard announced the presence of Bro Lee Atkinson of the Provincial Grand Steward’s Lodge. He had the important task of acting as the Representative’s Director of Ceremonies.

Four Humber Provincial Officers formed an escort for the Representative of the Right Worshipful Master W Bro Michael Graham PJGD who entered the Lodge Room, saluted the Worshipful Master and made his way to his seat on the dais from where he could watch proceedings.

A portion of the Ancient Charges was read and minutes confirmed in the usual manner after which it was my honour to give an eulogy on the life, personal and Masonic, of our oldest member W Bro Kenneth Leslie Graham who passed
to The Grand Lodge Above during the night of 3rd December 2025. (see the Celebration and Regrets page.)

W Bro Malcolm Forbes, the Master Elect sat quietly next to the Director of Ceremonies, no doubt ruminating on the year that lay before him.

A dispensation from Grand Lodge was read out by our Worshipful Master. Malcolm is already the WM of De La Pole Lodge 1605, hence this necessary complication.

The ceremony went well. Eddie performed magnificently and the assortment of Officers and stand-ins rose to the occasion.

Once in the Chair of King Solomon, Malcolm invested W Bro Eddie with the collar of an Immediate Past Master and congratulated him on a job well done.

The new team was announced and unfamiliar seats were occupied by those Officers who were present, several Officers having to be presented with their collars at some future meeting. The address to the Master was given by W Bro Phillip Watts, the address to the Wardens by W Bro Richard Smedley and the address to the Brethren by W Bro Terry Fisher.

The Masonic Anthem was beautifully performed by the omnipresent Richard Smedley and how good it was to hear the organ music once more!

W Bro Malcolm Forbes was not the usual rabbit in the headlights! He has had a wealth of experience in various Masonic chairs and his career as a Lecturer in Law in Hull and Lincoln kept him in good stead.

The business of the Lodge was attended to and greetings given and recorded.

 

W Bro Malcolm closed the Lodge with panache and then it was downstairs to feast and make merry.

There were several empty seats at the Festive Board; an indication of the level of flu, covid and other misfortunes that are forever present. (See the Coronavirus page.) This did not prevent those attending from enjoying an excellent “traditional Christmas dinner” which was followed by the usual five toasts. As the Representative of the PGM, W Bro Michael Graham responded eloquently to the fifth toast. He congratulated W Bro Eddie on his year in the Chair and on the excellent Humber website. He stated that communication has to be two ways: this applies to our Lodge and also to Province: the membership must respond! He reminisced of past years at Humber Lodge Installations when there would be over a hundred people present. I too have memories of those days! New blood is required in our Lodge if it is to succeed; it should be possible to recruit new members as Province had, in general, seen a surge in membership, he stated.

Good wishes and season's greetings were passed on to the new Master and to the assembled Brethren.

I had the privilege of proposing the toast to our new Master, after which W Bro Smedley and the IPM gave an excellent rendition of the Song to the Master, a moment that brings a tear to the eye of most recipients of this tribute.

The WM responded after which he proposed a toast to The Immediate Past Master. He thanked W Bro Eddie for taking the Chair in Humber Lodge for a second time. Eddie responded in his eloquent and thoughtful manner, explaining that his year had been like the black and white squares of the Lodge carpet. He had enjoyed good times but there had also been difficulties along the way. He wished Malcolm and his team of officers well for the year ahead.

The visitors toast was responded to by W Bro Malcolm Grange, WM of the Wyke Millennium Lodge  9696 who stated
that the visitors had enjoyed an excellent ceremony and a scrumptious festive board.

A glass was raised to our Lecture Master, W Bro Phillip Watts as this was the last ceremony that he was steering. Phil has done a wonderful job for the Lodge over a number of years and the Lodge owes him a debt of gratitude.

Good luck to Richard Smedley as he takes over this role from February next year.

The parting toast was sung by Richard and so ended yet another Installation Ceremony.

I left the Lodge in high spirits, full of enthusiasm for the year ahead. Such was the activity of my brain that I found it hard to sleep. I considered making for the study and picking up the guitar to engage in an hour of practice. I then remembered the voice of my somewhat exasperated wife some months ago when, as I tried to perfect “The Streets of London” for the twentieth time, she exploded with “ If you play that ****** song once more I’m leaving!” 

I decided on discretion. Maybe I can perfect Jingle Bells!

[Photos: 1) Master and Wardens; 2) Rep Mike Graham, SW Craig Fish, WM Malcolm Forbes, JW Steve Wright, Rep's DC Lee Atkinson.]

David Terry

 

 

Monday 8th December 2025:

Andrew Marvell Christmas Lodge

W Bro Thomas Stephen Cawkwell was in the Chair for Andrew Marvell's Christmas Lodge; a brief meeting of the Brethren upstairs at Beverley Road Masonic Hall for the signing of the minutes, a successful ballot for a joining member from Keyingham, and the election of next year's WM and Treasurer. Congratulations to Bro Ian Fuller and W Bro Colin Shields respectively! Greetings were tendered from H57 and other Lodges.

Reports preceded the closing, after which the Brethren joined friends and wives for the festive board, which included carol singing, a quiz, bingo and a raffle.

Eddie Wildman, organist

 

Saturday 6th December 2025:

I travelled to York in the company of Technical Brethren; Bro Edward J Thompson, who was driving, picked me up first so I had the pleasure of the front seat - we then picked up W Bro Dr Hitendra Thaker and after that Bro Dr Nandakumar Thekkootu Pisharam. All these Brethren dealt with different aspects of wellbeing; I reflected that if I were to have a heart attack, I was probably in safe hands. (Not that there was any likelihood of a myocardial infarction with Ed at the wheel - he was in total control and I was now fully recovered from the journey to Grimsby - see 4th December below.) The conversation in the back of the car was rather too quiet for me to follow, but occasional phrases like "it was an obvious case of pneumoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis" and "AI diagnostic imaging in hypercholecystitis" could be heard. Ed nodded sagely while I was thoroughly confused.

We arrived in good time for the 4:30 meeting, and it was good to shake hands with friends and members of Invictus Lodge 9960 (consecrated in 2018 it has risen undefeated from strength to strength) and to greet the ladies there - this was a white table event, and the ladies would be joining the gents at the festive board. 

Upstairs I played the organ during the first degree ceremony. Mr Paul Kelly was successfully initiated in military style - smart moves, parade-ground ritual and pride in performace. It was well attended and the light blue Brethren were well balanced by the dark blue and gold (with a generous sprinkling of UGLE officers.) The WM, W Bro David Wood led the Lodge with authority, matched by the Wardens, Bros Hartshorn and Kirk. W Bro J Sharpe delivered the charge magnificently, and later presented a Grand Lodge Certificate with equal eloquence. At the end, Bro (Captain) Kirk introduced Brother Kelly to the Brethren; Bro Kelly responded briefly and appropriately.

The festive board was equally succesful, though a few Brethren thought the presence of wives had restrained the behaviour of some of the lads. Bro Hartshorn explained the now traditional method of firing after the toasts practiced by the Invictus Brethren. Much port was quaffed. The conversation was varied: glancing round I could see happy faces as the Brethren and guests tucked into traditional Christmas fare. A generous amount had been amassed (and augmented) for Charitable purposes. The evening concluded with everyone singing "O come all ye faithful".

On the way back Ed remarked how impressive the Lodge Room had been, with its banners, amazing furniture and decor. (The building had been opened in 1846 as the Institute for Popular Science and Literature, but purchased for Masonic purposes in 1882 and opened as a Masonic Hall in 1884.) We spoke of different Lodge buildings - Dagger Lane and Little Park Street in Hull, the splendid vista from Saltburn MH and elsewhere. Despite the light rain and the standing water on the roads it was a jolly journey back. Surprisingly, I was home just before eleven.

Congratulations, Bro Kelly on joining this illustrious Lodge, and congratulations, Invictus Lodge on a splendid evening.

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist.

 

 

Friday 5th December 2025:

Quod Petis Hic Est

Thesaurus Lodge 3891 held its first official meeting at Beverley Road. Unused to such a large area both in the temple and the dining hall, the members possibly found it somewhat daunting ("Voice projection is necessary when some of the Brethren are getting a bit deaf," observed Adrian at the festive board. "Pardon?" replied Mark Rudston, from across the table.)

The opportunity was taken for a short meeting upstairs; the Lodge was opened by the WM, W Bro Stainforth, and the DC, W Bro Richard East (pictured at the festive board) kept the Brethren in good order. A trio of younger members, Brothers James Hussey, Gareth Laycock and Luke Byron delivered a nugget and a couple of snippets regarding the ancient traditions in FM - and how things have changed over time; we are always seeking improvement. Appropriately the Lodge motto "Quod petis hic est" - What you are looking for is here - reflects this theme.

As wives and partners were waiting downstairs, it was a short meeting, and the Brethren hurried downstairs to join them. Luke Pyrah's Christmas meal was of the customary high standard, and the Brethren and guests were in good voice for the carols, the Twelve Days of Christmas and the Yuletide Quiz delivered by W Bro Garry Millett. It was a lovely evening.

Eddie Wildman, organist

 

Thursday 4th December 2025:

Where's the Money Gone?

by Eddie Wildman

An early version of a Chris Rea album begins with the sound of pouring rain and the steady sweep of windscreen wipers, setting the scene for the preamble wherein the composer announces in his gravelly voice "This is the Road to Hell." This was very much in my mind as the weather was dark and unfriendly and the traffic was building up quickly. Malcolm Forbes was the driver (possibly the world's most cautious motorist) and I sympathised as he battled towards the Humber Bridge with the threshing wipers and the reflected glare of headlights on the tarmac. We had set off early for the rush hour traffic on route to Grimsby is daunting, but without the advantage of a Satnav, and the inability to see more than a few yards ahead while travelling at four miles per fortnight, we took a wrong turning at Grimsby (not twinned with Chernobyl despite rumours) and then several wrong turnings subsequently. Consequently we missed the opening of the Pelham Pillar Lodge. We managed to offer apologies, going in when the Entered Apprentices were asked to leave: just in time for the Lodge to be opened in the 2°.

Pelham Pillar's warrant dates from 1859. It should have been earlier, but a scurrilous WM, alas, from Humber Lodge, absconded with the sponsoring money. This unworthy WM ended his days in a debtor's prison, but later, when the PP Lodge 792 was established, the Lodges remained friends and a tradition arose of passing a bag of coins from one Lodge to the other twice a year. Covid put a stop to this and the process has faltered a little since, but it is hoped that the mysteriously vanished bag of coins will soon be discovered and recovered and the tradition can resume in May 2026.

In the present time (okay, we were half an hour late), Malcolm and I, as Master Elect and Worshipful Master, after having driven down every road in Grimbsy ("except Cambridge Road," Malcolm interjected) entered the peaceful routine of this worthy Lodge - the first meeting under the directorshiop of its new WM, W Bro Copley.

Lodge 792 is very punctillious in its movements. Strict right-angled turns are excecuted when perambulating. Youthful-looking Bro Joe Barker, (pictured) initiated a year ago, answered the questions leading to the degree of a fellowcraft and retired for preparation. The Lodge was opened in the second degree in due and ancient form.

The ritual differs from that of Humber, but it was all impressive, and I was particularly taken by the explanation of the symbolism of the Working Tools, an extended version which I have not heard before. Delivered by W Bro Derek Fitzgerald it was a well measured and clearly audible piece of ritual. 

The festive board enjoyed a Christmas theme and carols were sung after the pudding. As the visitors were toasted it occurred to me that three Humber Brethren were there: Alan Todd (himself a Lincolshire Yellowbelly), myself and Malcolm, or the IPM, WM and Master Elect. And Fellowcraft Freemason Joe Barker looked much happier after the ceremony than before! 

The drive back was well signposted and the rain wasn't as heavy on the noisy A180, whose brushed concrete surface, installed in the 1980s is still a cause for complaint forty years on. Back over the bridge, Malcolm relaxed a little. I can only thank him for his patience and fortitude. I know I wouldn't have managed so well.

 

Wednesday 3rd December 2025:

Strictly Masonic in Yorkshire

There are Installation meetings . . . and then there are performances. Last night’s gathering could easily have been mistaken for a live episode of Strictly Come Dancing — albeit with more aprons and less sequins.

Sadly, the evening was marked by the last‑minute absence of the Provincial Grand Master’s representative, which left his Director of Ceremonies without a partner. One could almost hear the collective sigh as the choreography faltered — a duet reduced to a solo. But the show must go on.

Our Director of Ceremonies W Bro Marcus Whereat was in his element, gliding across the Lodge floor with such precision and flair that one half-expected Craig Revel Horwood to appear from the sidelines with a “FAB-U-LOUS, darling!” Every candidate was ushered into place with a twirl, a pivot, and the occasional dramatic pause. If ballroom dancing ever needs a new category…“Masonic Waltz” … we’ve found our champion.

Adding gravitas to the evening was the Installing Master, W Bro Mike Price, whose delivery of the ritual was nothing short of outstanding. His words flowed with clarity, dignity, and a touch of theatrical timing that held the Lodge spellbound. So impressive was his rendition that the Past Provincial Deputy Grand Master remarked it was the finest he had witnessed in a very long time — high praise indeed and richly deserved.

Meanwhile, Bro. Secretary provided comic relief of a different sort. In the midst of the solemn proceedings, it became apparent that the Master Elect’s apron was… well, not exactly where it ought to be. Cue frantic whispers, a shuffle of feet, and the kind of sheepish grin that only comes from realising you’ve forgotten the most symbolic garment of the evening. Thankfully, the crisis was averted, though the Master Elect may have briefly considered installing himself in his everyday attire.

Adding to the spectacle was the music, courtesy of our own maestro Wildman. As Brethren were invested with their collars and badges of office, the Lodge was treated to a soundtrack ranging from the grandeur of Richard Strauss’s Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30 to the cheeky charm of TV’s Steptoe and Son theme. It was a masterstroke of humour and ceremony combined. Greetings were also warmly received from six visiting Lodges, including W Bro Eddie Wildman of Humber 57 — still proudly (and loudly) claiming it remains the premier Lodge!

And then came the Festive Board — a Christmas spectacular courtesy of our chef Luke. The tables were adorned with multi-coloured cyclamens, creating a cheerful glow that matched the spirit of the season. Plates were piled high, glasses clinked, and laughter echoed around the room. The warmth of the evening was magnified by the support of visiting Brethren, especially those from Lord Bolton Lodge, whose presence reminded us that fellowship stretches far beyond our own walls.

Newly installed Worshipful Master Wayne Walker was then toasted in fine style and received the traditional Master’s Song — delivered with the rich bass-baritone tones of W Bro Price, whose voice filled the room with warmth and gravitas. The Worshipful Master responded with heartfelt thanks, expressing his gratitude to everyone who had made the night so special.  

The evening rolled on with dignity, laughter, and just enough chaos to remind us that Freemasonry, like life, is best enjoyed with a wink and a smile. After all, what’s an Installation without a touch of theatre — and a Secretary who keeps us guessing?

[Photos by Eddie: L to R W Bros Gary Crossland, SW; Wayne Walker, WM; Tim Dillon, JW; Brethren line up after the Installation ceremony.]

Neil Armstrong,  errant Secretary! (Kingston 1010)

 

Monday 1st December 2025:

Festivities at Humber Installed Masters Lodge 2494

by Malcolm Forbes

 

Christmas was in the air as Brethren and their Ladies arrived at Beverley Road Masonic Hall. The lights on the Christmas tree in the bar area were switched on to herald a busy lead- up to the festive season.

Business first as the Brethren took their seats in the large Lodge room for the Lodge meeting which started at 6.30pm. Note that as all members have already been installed as Masters, the appellation "Worshipful" becomes redundant: we are all simply Brothers.

Deputy Provincial Grand Master VW Bro Bill Glanville stood in as Worshipful Master. Assistant Provincial Grand Master Chris Thomas, who was celebrating his 70th birthday, sat in the Senior Warden's Chair. Bro Richard East was Junior Warden. Bro Adrian Hayward stood in as Chaplain. Other stand-ins included Bro Sean Carroll as Junior Deacon and Bro Peter Stokes as Inner Guard. Bro Eddie Wildman, whose birthday is on 2nd December, was Organist. He had a busy night as not only did he lead the Daggards production to the assembled Brethren and Ladies in the Lodge room after the Lodge meeting had closed but he also provided the musical accompaniment to the singing of four carols and The Twelve Days of Christmas at the Festive Board.

After the reading of a portion of the Ancient Charges by Lodge Secretary Bro Terry Fisher and approval of the minutes of the meeting held on 6th October, elections took place. Bro Hiten Thaker was elected Worshipful Master for 2026/2027. Bro Peter Spencer was elected as Treasurer. Lodge Committee members, Accounts Examiners and the representative for the Beverley Road Masonic Hall management committee were re-elected.

Subsequently a ballot for two joining members Bro Terry Scott and Bro Allan McKay was held and proved successful. Director of Ceremonies Bro David Johnstone was kept on his toes as he presided over the ballot.

Amongst the formality there was informality as the Brethren sang "Happy Birthday" to Brothers Thomas and Wildman. WM W Bro Glanville kept the meeting in good spirits.

After greetings and the closure of the Lodge meeting the Ladies were invited into the Lodge room to hear the presentation "Alien Attack" from the Daggards. Assistant Director of Ceremonies Bro Craig Maurier was the narrator whilst Brothers Wildman, Neil Armstrong and Philip Daniels interacted in a space age production which mixed Masonic ritual with a theme of aliens from another galaxy, the Worshipful Master kidnapped at the start of a Masonic meeting. There was much mirth and whimsy throughout and the audience was kept enthralled. At the end it was announced that the evening's production was the last that the Daggards were due to perform. Their humour will be much missed.

The dining room was full for the Festive Board. Brethren and their guests were treated to a traditional Christmas meal. Only two toasts were delivered. Chef Luke Pyrah and his staff justly merited the warm appreciation expressed by WM W Bro Glanville at the end of the meal. The carol singing and the singing of The Twelve Days of Christmas capped a fine evening of Christmas fun. The raffle raised £195, and the WM added another fiver to round up the figure. There were many happy faces as eighteen prizes were raffled.

Congratulations to everyone involved in staging a joyous evening. The Lodge maintained its tradition of Brethren and their guests being able to meet up in the finest of Masonic traditions to enjoy themselves in each other's company.

Malcolm Forbes

 

 

Friday 28th November 2025 p.m.:

Ridings Tablers' Lodge 9586 Installation Meeting

 report by Eddie Wildman

I only realised when someone mentioned it at the festive board, that the Ridings Tablers' Lodge is now thirty years old. As a founder member, it makes me feel ancient. Some of the Brethren were not even born when the Lodge was consecrated. (On reflection, this is not a bad thing. Sadly, in many Lodges, the demographic reflects an aging population: within a decade it is likely they will be handing in their warrants. Age should not be a problem (other than the creaks and aches which flesh is heir to) and indeed some of the older Brethren have fascinating stories to tell, but without an influx of younger folk the progression of the Craft to future generations is not going to happen. Chatting at the bar in another Lodge recently with my peers it wasn't so much a conversation as an organ recital.)

The RTL still gives a toast to the Founders during the afterproceedings: I'm happy to say some of us are still standing!

I was kindly picked up by the Worshipful Master and we arrived at Trinity Lane Beverley in good time. "I like to be early," he said, "though some of the younger lads have already been in and set up, I think. And by the way, just to remind you . . ." he manouvered a box of toys for the Bernado's appeal through the door while I struggled to keep up. "Have I forgotten something?" I said, alarmed. "No." He put the box with his masonic case on the table in the hallway. "Just to say, that if you're putting a blog on the Humber website, not to mention my name or post any photographs of me. My job is very insistant I keep a low profile." I was a little hurt. "I've not mentioned your name all year, " I said. "And at your installation I made sure your picture wasn't recognisable - it was someone else's head, for goodness' sake! But don't worry. You will continue to be anonymous on the Humber website, George."

I went for a stroll in Beverley - the sun was going down, the schoolchildren were out doing their Christmas shoplifting. The festive board had been set out beautifully already and some of the Brethren were rehearsing upstairs. I was looking forward to the ceremony - the WM had presided over an excellent year, and the incoming Master was as keen as mustard. I arrived back at the Lodge at five o'clock and went to sort out my music on the organ.

The WM opened the Lodge with practised efficiency, salutations were extended to the officers of UGLE, and the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W Bro Christopher J Thomas entered with an impressive team of Active Provincial Officers under the directorship of the Deputy Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, W Bro Ben Kelly. The minutes of the previous meeting were approved and signed (and also by the DPGM) and reports were briefly given - most having been distributed by email beforehand. I had the privilege of presenting a Grand Lodge Certificate to Bro Paul Harding. 

Then followed one of the best Installation ceremonies I have ever witnessed. Under the command of the Lodge DC, W Bro Steve Hastings, and with the impeccable ritual of the WM and his Officers, the move up the degrees to the Board of Installed Masters, the subsequent ceremony (the WM was word-perfect in both obligations), descent through the degrees, the appointment and investiture of the Officers and the Addresses ran like a finely-tuned machine, with quiet dignity and sincerity. The Primus Master, W Bro David Burnett, sang the verses of the Masonic Anthem as the Brethren perambulated. Very Worshipful Brother Jonathan M M Smith presented a past-master's jewel to the new IPM and his predecessor, saving the one that had belonged to his father for the present incumbent of the WM's Chair, W Bro Nicholas Barton, at the end of his term of office. What impressed me most, I think, was the commitment and involvement of everyone who took part.

Earlier in the day and elsewhere I'd witnessed a ceremony where it appeared that no-one could be bothered to learn their lines. This evening everyone fitted together in a beautifully moving ceremony as though they were cogs in a finely-tuned machine. Nor was it without surprises: it was a pleasure to see W Bro Mike Coates presented with a medal for taking part in the Charity Parachute Jump on 27th July by W Bro John Murphy, Festival Vice Chair.

Events like this don't happen by accident, and tribute must be made to the DC who had guided the Brethren through numerous rehearsals, gently correcting and advising. As one of the three Founder Members there, I was proud to be part of this fine Lodge.

I'll pass over the many greetings from the visitors (the WM's Brother had travelled from the deep south of the country to be at Nick's installation - their father, Kelvin Barton, Lodge Secretary, who generally affects an implacable military exterior was even seen to smile) and the slick efficiency of the closing, as remarkable as the opening of the Lodge. Photographs were taken, and the Brethren hied downstairs to the bar and the Festive Board.

The food was good, the company convivial. The Sea Cadets were there to serve (In the picture WM Nick Barton is presenting a cheque to them.) W Bro Andrew Green's rendition of the Worshipful Master's Song was exquisite. The toasts and responses were well appreciated, and I became even more aware of how in the last year the Lodge has pulled together in social events, has worked behind the scenes, has actively contributed to Charitable causes (such as the £750.00 donation to the Festival passed on to the DPGM upstairs) and been, in the best sense of the word, sincerely Masonic. 

(Well how about that, Worshipful Brother Immediate Past Master? I didn't mention your name once! But on behalf of the Lodge, sincere and grateful thanks to you and your team for such a successful year! Well done, George!) (Whoops! Sorry!!)

Eddie Wildman, Lodge Organist

 

Friday 28th November 2025 a.m.:

An account of the meeting of the Wyke Millennium Chapter 9696 may be found on the Chapter Blog Page .

 

Thursday 27th November 2025:

Lodge of St Michael 7833

It was a pleasure to see the Lodge Room full; not only with the Assistant Provincial Grand Master and his team of active officers (including W Bro Craig Maurier PGSD of H57) but visitors from elsewhere. The Worshipful Master, W Bro David Thomas Whittall PPGSuptWks opened the Lodge promptly at 6:15: there was a lot of business to conduct, and as the Lodge Preceptor intimated at the outset, the Lodge of St Michael does not rush through its ceremonies.

The Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, W Bro Ben Kelly, announced that Very Worshipful Brother William Ernest Glanville PGSwdB demanded admission, and, escorted by his team, he entered the Lodge, saluted, and took the Chair. He introduced his officers before handing the gavel back to the WM. 

The next business was to pass Bro Ashley Fairburn to the degree of a Fellow Craft Freemason. Proving himself well in command of the answers to the essential questions, he retired for preparation. The Lodge was raised to the 2° and reports were given by the Almoner and Charity Steward. W Bro Jim Kerr stood to compliment the Lodge on its progress towards Vice-patronage of Festival 2029. 

A report from the Tyler, W Bro Peter Wright informed the Lodge that Bro Fairburn was now prepared; he was admitted in due form. I'll not dilate on the ceremony which was a model of excellence except to remark on Bro John Burton's stunning delivery of the Second Degree Tracing Board, a tour de force which was spontaneously applauded by the Brethren.

Next, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master presented a certificate for fifty years' service to W Bro Jackie Isaac Chapman PPGReg. He began by asking for highlights of his upbringing (a red tricycle and boarding school days,) his high-school diploma and year's exchange scheme in America, going on to the world of work, the family mail-order business annd Selfridges Toy Department on the way up his career ladder, which included getting married, moving to Hull and becoming a driviing instructor in Leconfield, His Masonic career began in London - his father was a Freemason. Jackie had visited several Lodges in Hull before deciding that the Emulation ritual practised by the Lodge of Saint Michael was the significant factor in joining YN&ER. Further info can be seen here.  W Bro Glanville presented Jackie with his certificate and a lapel pin.

W Bro Whittall was pleased to inform the Deputy Provincial Grand Master that £500 had been transferred to the Festival Fund, the occasion of the DPGM's visit being an appropriate time to make this known.

The Lodge was closed and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board, at which the Deputy Provincial Grand Master remarked that it had been "an absolutely splendid evening from start to finish."

Peter Stokes' account of this meeting is on https://www.lodge7833.org.uk/?Blog_Page

[Photos: The Deputy Provincial Grand Master, FC Freemason Ashley Fairburn and the Worshipful Master; VW Bro William Glanville, and W Bro Jackie Chapman with his fifty-year certificate with W Bro Whittall under the banner of the Lodge of St Michael.]

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

Tuesday 25th November 2025:

Vigilantes Lodge flooded by Humber

The title is an exaggeration; the Humber Lodge didn't exactly flood the Vigilantes Lodge, but W Bro Alan Todd, IPM of H57 and currently WM of Vigilantes 7264, with Past Masters Craig Maurier, Richard Smedley and myself (pictured: The WM of Humber receiving a cheque for the Daggards from the WM of Vigilantes) made a significant contribution, I think, to the evening. The Daggards have performed in Lincolnshire in the past and enjoyed the company of the North Lincs Brethren.

Alan had asked if the Daggards could contribute something (as they have done in the past) to the Christmas celebrations of the Lincolnshire Lodge (which doesn't meet in December but refuses to forgo the festive entertainment); the ladies are invited and a traditional meal is put on. The new caterers are superb, by the way - the meal was delicious.

"The Daggards are closing down at the end of the year," I said. "We've been going for over thirty years. A good number have subsequently gone to the Grand Lodge above since the nineties, and I am getting too old. It's been fun and we have raised thousands over the years, supporting many different charities and good causes. But as it's you that's asking, Alan, I'll see if there's anything we can do."

There was. Craig was available that night, and he'd seen performances of "The Medieval Engineers" and was happy to take part. Richard was happy to sing - he and I have performed all the songs at one time or another - so we decided that Cleethorpes would be the place of the penultimate Daggards performance. The Daggards have performed at the Masonic Hall there on several occasions. Rehearsals were organised.

As in many Daggards productions, the performers change character (and accents) at the drop of an aitch, swapping in this production from professorial mortar boards to the flat caps of  practical builders while a chosen victim candidate takes the part of young Cedric,  who follows his career as an initiate into the mysteries of practical masonry; pointing out the parallels with the speculative fraternity until he becomes a Master of the Lodge (various pinnies are worn, not to mention the beards and the wigs - while the songs are sung.) Brother Ben Glover-Poole made a magnificent Cedric (and, incidentally, a splendid Father Christmas when he brought in a flaming Christmas pudding to the strains of "Good King Wenceslas" at the Festive Board. Richard presented him with a certificate to mark his achievement as a Medieval Engineer during the evening.

It was a well-attended occasion - helped by the efficiency of the Secretary, W Bro Paul Aitken and the kindness of the DC W Bro Poole, who emailed me beforehand to ask if there was any setting-up needed to be done in advance - it is heartening to have such assistance! I confess I was flagging towards the end of the Festive Board; I don't have the energy I enjoyed thirty years ago when the Daggards began. Richard and I decided to forgo singing our final song at the end as the Tyler, W Bro T Clay, gave his toast with such aplomb, and echoing the same sentiments of "May we happy meet again" that further music was unecessary.

Thank you, Vigilantes Lodge for your support in the past, and your support on this occasion. 

Our final Daggards performance will be at the Humber Installed Masters Lodge on Monday.

Eddie Wildman, Founder Daggard

 

Thursday 20th November 2025:

Malcolm John Forbes is a member of more masonic orders than I care to count, one of which is the United, Religious and Military Orders of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta of England and Wales and its Provinces Overseas (or KT for short), the Humber Preceptory which meets at Dagger Lane. Several members of Humber KT 223 are also members of Humber 57 Craft Lodge and were there to see Malcolm installed as Eminent Preceptor for the year. The ceremony was well attended by both the Provincial Prior and the Past Provincial Prior and a team of active Provincial Officers, who quickly discovered that Eminent Knight Malcolm Forbes with a sword in his hand is a formidable prospect. An essential requisite of membership is having passed through the 3° in the Craft and being a member of the Holy Royal Arch Chapter, but we encourage every good man and true to become part of this Christian Order.

Eddie Wildman, Provincial Prelate

 

Wednesday 19th November 2025:

Congratulations to E Companion Malcolm Forbes who stood as Most Excellent Joshua at the Kingston Chapter meeting. Eddie Wildman was in the Chair and the business was the making of a new Chapter Companion. Read about it in Neil Armstrong's climatory exposition here .

 

Tuesday 18th November 2025:

Hull Old Grammarians' Lodge 5129 Installation

report by Eddie Wildman

Congratulations to the retiring Worshipful Master, W Bro Duncan Scott Taylor, and the newly installed Worshipful Master, W Bro Emmanuel Rashid Musah on this installation day. The Hull Old Grammarians' Lodge was originally formed in 1929 from members of Hull Grammar School (the educational establishment was founded around 1330 and endowed in 1479 by the prelate John Alcock, but declined after a local authority restructuring process and disappeared in 2005) and some past pupils or teaching staff are still members of the Lodge. Few members, however, now know the Old School Song with its distinctive chorus Floreat Nostra Schola. Sic transit gloria mundi.

The Representative of the RWPGM was W Bro Hiten Thaker. His DC was Bro Lee Atkinson. They enjoyed the ceremony, and in his remarks at the festive board W Bro Thaker commented on the sincerity with which it had been conducted. W Bro Thaker went on to point out the importance of the masonic principles: integrity, friendship, respect and service and promoting the "Which Way Now?" Event at the Manor Academy, Nether Poppleton, York on the 29th of the month. W Bro Musah was eloquent in his thanks to the Brethren following the toast to him by W Bro Nigel Collier and looked forward to leading the Lodge through his year in office.

[Pictured: W Bro Hiten Thaker and W Bro Emmanuel Musah, Worshipful Master, and a gathering of some of the Hull Old Grammarian Brethren with visiting Brethren.] 

Eddie Wildman, guest organist.

 

Monday 17th November 2025:

Holderness Lodge Initiation

report by Eddie Wildman

Worshipful Brother Danial Marshall stood in as Worshipful Master for this signific meeting, W Bro Betts being sadly unable to attend. W Bro Ben Kelly, Director of Ceremonies, brought the Brethren to order promptly and announced that there was no fire practice expected that evening, so if there was an alarm, the Brethren should follow him out of the door. The WM opened the Lodge, greetings were extended to the UGLE officer seated at the organ, and a knock at the door prompted the Inner Guard to report that the DC for the Representative was outside, requesting entry.

The Representative of the RWPGM was W Bro Paul Harper; an escort was formed for him and he came in under the smart direction of his DC, saluting the VSL before advancing to the dais to sit at the right-hand side of the Master.

The usual opening procedure (signing of the minutes, etc.) continued and the Tyler informed the Inner Guard that there was an alarm. For non-masons reading this blog, this was not a fire alarm. The Outer Guard, or Tyler, gave a signal to the Inner Guard that a stranger requested entry. (The entrance of visitors to a Lodge is initially announced by the Tyler knocking on the door - the pattern of knocks indicating their status. The Inner Guard also relays to the Tyler information about the current status of the Lodge - should it change degree, for example - by a peculiar pattern of knocks. To find out more, you need to join.) The Tyler's symbol is a sword, which dates from the days when he was armed against attack from non-masons.

Mr Christopher Sykes was admitted and was questioned as to his motivation for joining. As he was of good report and prepared to abide by the rules, he was conducted round the room by the Junior Deacon, Bro James Anderson in the regular manner. He took his solemn obligation as an Entered Apprentice Freemason under the direction of the Lodge Lecture Master, W Bro Richard Tyson. The symbolic Lights were explained by the Secretary, Bro Colin Wilson, and the secrets communicated by the Junior Warden, W Bro Paul Greenwood, who tested Bro Sykes' grasp of them before passing him on to the Senior Warden for further examination. Bro Lee Atkinson invested him with the white apron on which all subsequent Masonic regalia is based.

W Bro Alan Coates gave the address at the Northeast Corner of the Lodge, and Bro Mark Huggins pointed out the Warrant, the authority by which Lodges act, passing over the Book of Constitutions and the Bylaws of the Lodge. I had the privilege of describing the Working Tools,which Masons apply symbolically to their behaviour (the expression "On the Square" comes from Masonry.) Bro Kelly delivered the Ancient Charge, a set of rules, duties and moral obligations derived from the medieval stonemasons who were required to swear and abide by them in order to join the Masons' Guild.

Bro Sykes was informed of the Q&A exchange - learning the answers to the questions is a requisite for advancement into the higher degrees. He retired to restore himself to a suit without the trouser leg rolled up. Lodge reports followed.

W Bro Paul Harper, assisted by his DC  gave an extended history of the amalgamation of the Ancient and Modern Grand Lodges before presenting Bro Anderson with his United Grand Lodge of England Certificate.  He followed this thesis by dilating on the Solomon programme (to which he is a significan instigator and contributor) and the initiative of the  Solomon Certificate, and presented Bro Lee Atkinson with this document showing the latter's newly acquired qualifications. The Secretary gave apologies from the absentees, greetings were given, and the Lodge was closed.

At the Festive Board the Representative congratulated Bro Atkinson and W Bro Ashby-Kelly on their Provincial honours to be awarded in May, and spoke of the necessity of evolving as Lodges, before wishing the Holderness Lodge 3563 Prosperity, Unanimity and Perpetuity. W Bro Ashby-Kelly gave the toast of the evening to Bro Sykes and the Brethren sang the Entered Apprentice Song. Splendid though the Holderness Lodge is, singing is not one of its outstanding accomplishments. Brother Sykes responded eloquently, thanking his Proposer, Seconder and Conductor saying he was looking forward to his Masonic journey. W Bro Paul Garthwaite, Master of Brough Lodge 5464 responded on behalf of the visitors, reiterating the SW's comments on the value of visiting, and thanking the Lodge for being a fantastic Lodge, the fantastic ceremony and the fantastic Festive Board. There were seven visitors from five sister Lodges.

A thoroughly pleasant evening.

Eddie Wildman, Organist

 

 

 

Saturday 15th November 2025:

Technical Installation

by Eddie Wildman

The term "installation" derives from the medieval Latin installatio meaning "to put in place". It can be broken down into "in" and "stall" and was used ecclesiastically in early times when a prior or other religious figure was promoted to a new seat (stall) in a monastry. It is in this sense, the placement of a leader, that it is used Masonically. In more modern times the word has been used for the placement of fixtures (e.g. the installation of a new fireplace) and with computer software, the creation, extraction and transposition of necessary files from a storage medium like a CD, USB drive etc. to run a computer programme; in construction it refers to placing something in a fixed or temporary location and connected for use (e.g. machinery or apparatus.)

This afternoon and evening saw the installation of Brother Arash Vesali into the Master's Chair in the Technical Lodge 5666. It was a fluent and memorable ceremony under the baton of the Installing Director of Ceremonies, W Bro Rob Gorman and Master Tony James.

The Worshipful Master opened the Lodge with aplomb. The place was well attended, and from the outset a friendly atmosphere prevailed.A signal from the Tyler informed the Brethren that the DC for the Representative of the RWPGM requested entry. W Bro Chris Patrick then announced that W Bro Tony Randle PSGW was in attendance. An escort was formed and W Bro Randle took his seat next to the WM. The minutes were carried and signed. and the WM asked W Bro Gorman to be the Installing Officer.

Bro Arash Vesali was presented. The Entered Apprentice retired, and the Lodge was opened on the Square, the stand-in Junior Warden, W Bro Paul Hillary proving the assembled Brethren Fellowcraft Freemasons. Bro Vesali stood as the WM recited those necessary qualifications of a Master, a theme continued by the Secretary, W Bro Mark Cusack. Bro Ash was obligated to these conditions.

The Fellow Craft Freemasons were invited to retire and the Lodge was opened in the 3°. All Offices were delared vacant, last year's Officers handed in their collars of office and the Master Masons, with the exception of Bro Vesali, left the Lodge room. W Bro Tony James opened a Board of Installed Masters, and Brother Vesali experienced the Inner Workings, which I'll not detail here.

The Master Masons were readmitted and saluted their brand-new Worshipful Master now installed in the figurative Chair of King Solomon. Bro Ed Thompson presented the working tools of a Master Mason. The Lodge was lowered to the 2° and 1°, the working tools respectively delivered by Bros John Hemingway and Paul Draper.

W Bro Vesali appointed and invested his Officers. W Bro Paul Hillary addressed the Master, I was privileged to give the address to the Wardens, and W Bro Gorman delivered the address to the Brethren. The Master thanked everyone who had participated in the ceremony and W Bro James, (now IPM) who had contributed significantly to the event  responded suitably.

There is a tradition in the Lodge that when a Past Master earns Provincial Honours, his PM jewel is returned to the Lodge for recycling; W Bro James was proud to wear the jewel that had once graced the ample chest of W Bro Mike Cheeseman. This initiative provides a real link from the past to the present.

W Bro Rob Atkinson now took over as DC. The WM presented the Rep with a handsome cheque for the Festival which was gracefully received, and reciprocated with a  Festival Vice Patron Certificate.

Reports had been distributed electronically. The Junior Warden, Bro Thekkoohaisharam Nandakumar proposed a new member. Correspondence was dealt with swiftly, and the Secretary, W Bro Daniel Laughton named those Officers to be awarded Provincial promotion at the next convocation (applause).

Hearty greetings were extended and W Bro Phil Daniels sang the anthem, the Brethren joining in the choruses before W Bro Vesali closed the Lodge.

There was a photo call before the Brethren went downstairs fot the Festive Board.

The meal was delicious. I was in good company, with W Bros Chapman, Daniels and Lovely regaling each other with stories. After the fifth rising, W Bro Randle, a frequent visitor to the Technical Lodge, commented on the achievements of the IPM, the potential of the new WM, commending both before dilating on the Festival. W Bro James Steele proposed the toast to the WM and W Bro Philip Daniels rendered the Master's Song beautifully. W Bro Paul Hillary toasted the IPM who gave a well considered, measured response. W Bro Alex McCallim (WM of Phoenix Lodge 9633) responded eloquently to Bro Adam Tunnicliffe's toast to the visitors (sung by the resident tenor, W Bro Chapman.)

The raffle was somewhat extended (I think the clockwork regularity of the evening was running down at this stage, but the WM told us it had raised £265 for Charity.) He reminded the Brethren of the imminent Children's party on December 7th and exhorted them to attend the Christmas Lodge where a choir would be visiting.

It was a late finish, but the Brethren were in a happy mood, the chorus of "Happy Meet Again" sung by W Bros Daniels and Chapman still on their lips.

Well done to all involved - a most enjoyable installation.

[Photos of W Bros Tony Randle, Ash Vesale and Tony James and the Technical Brethren, by Ed & Ed.]

Eddie Wildman, Organist

 

 

Friday 14th November 2025:

De la Pole's November Meeting

by Eddie Wildman

The de la Pole summons seemed a little sparse this month - there was no ceremony and the only item between the opening and closing read "The Secretary will read the minutes of 100 years ago, which has been the custom of the Lodge at this time of year." I thought to myself that this custom couldn't have begun before 1976, but that was, after all, forty-nine years ago.

The weather was wet: the carpark was full of puddles and the rain was falling steadily - not enough to soak you from the car to the door - provided someone inside answered promptly and let you in.

Perhaps the above conditions accounted for the sparcity of Brethren, for we were not very well attended, which was a shame as it was an enhoyable night. I spoke to the WM, W Bro Malcolm Forbes before the Brethren assembled and offered a short nugget should he want to give a little more substance to the meeting and he graciously accepted.

The Lodge was opened and the minutes were read, followed by those of a century ago, which reported an initiation ceremony. This gave a sense of continuity, a link with the past and long-departed Brethren who had followed the same principals of Brotherly Love, Reflief and Truth.

Following  on the spirit of remembrance, the WM drew our attention to the poppy wreath leaning against the pedestal, and we stood in respectful silence for those Brethren who had made the supreme sacrifice. The Master then gave a eulogy about W Bro Mike Steel, warning of his funeral in a week's time.

Reports followed; there were additions to those already distributed electronically. The Charity Steward, Bro Graham Thornalley asked the Brethren to supply toys for the children supported by the Bernardo appeal. W Bro Peter Robson dilated on the Teddies for Loving Care for children in hospital.

The WM was p[leased to present W Bro Stan McKewan (pictured) with a Lodge certificate celebrating thirty years in Freemasonry. Stan has retained his youthful good looks and it was a surprise for many of us to learn how old this star footballer really is.

Still on the theme of looking to the past, I delivered a short nugget about the penalty in the 1° - forty years ago when I joined the Craft the ancient gruesome penalty was repeated by the Candidate. I drew attention to its fifteenth-century origins in the Hull Admiralty Court.

Greetings were given and the Lodge was closed in due form. The Brethren retired to the Festive Board. Two toast were submitted and the Brethren left somewhat earlier than usual. It was still raining.

Eddie Wildman, organist.

 

Thursday 13th November 2025:

Thesaurus bids goodbye to Dagger Lane

by Eddie Wildman

The Brethren of the Theasaurus Lodge 3891 had elected to upsticks and transfer to other premises - this was their last meeting at Dagger Lane and it was well attended. The seats on the dais were enriched by a number of Officers from UGLE; RW Bro Jonathan Smith, PDPGM, W Bro Ian Johnson, PAPGM, W Bro Richard Smedley, Provincial Third Grand Principal, while I sat at the organ. The Worshipful Master, W Bro Craig Stainforth, opened the Lodge. After salutes (and fanfares) there was a knock at the door and the Inner Guard, Bro Luke Byron admitted W Bro Andy Hinchcliff PPGStwd, who was DC for the Representative of the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, W Bro Steve Hall, PGStdB. An escort was formed to bring in this worthy Brother, who entered with a cohort of dark blue and gold.

The minutes were approved and signed after which there was a successful ballot for Mr Andrew Steel  who was subsequently initiated into the Thesaurus Lodge. W Bro Richard East delivered the Obligation and the Great and Lesser Lights; the Tyler, W Bro Rob McKenna communicated the distinguishing marks by which Entered Apprentice Freemasons are known to each other. The Senior Warden, Bro Garreth Millett invested Bro Steel with the EA Apron.

The address at the Northeast Corner was given by the Lodge's Provincial Support Officer, W Bro Barrie Jeffery of the Juno Lodge 1001. The Secretary, Bro Malcolm Dale pointed out the Warrant, the authority under which the Lodge operates, and the Working Tools were described by the Junior Warden, Bro Gary Horth. The Ancient Charge was delivered by the Chaplain, W Bro Adrian Hayward.

Reports were given while Bro Steel restored himself to his usual conforts and he re-entered the Lodge in time for the Ceremony of the Empty Chair. At this time of year (see the article below) it is appropriate to remember the fallen. This occasion was enhanced by Bro Andrew East, who entered the Lodge carrying the banner of the Prince of Wales Own Regiment. Bro East placed a Masonic apron on an empty chair adjacent to the pedestal with the VSL and stood with enormous dignity as appropriate words were said, lowering the flag at the playing of the Last Post and raising it after a two minute silence for the Reveille. He recited John Maxwell Edmonds' remembrance "When you go home, Tell them of us and say, For your tomorrow, We gave our today." Following this poignant note  Bro East left the Lodge with military smartness.

The WM closed the Lodge in due form. I asked if the Master and our new Entered Apprentice could return for a photograph. I should not have been surprised that nearly all the Brethren wanted to be in it - the last occasion at Dagger Lane. (The Grand Lodge Officers took the opportunity to order their drinks at the bar.)

At the Festive Board W Bro Hall spoke about the Festival. The toast to Bro Steel was given by his proposer, Bro Carl Moore, and Bro Steel responded eloquently. A pair of white gloves was given to him by Bro James Hussey: it is a tradition in this Lodge that the newest Candidate is presented thusly by the last man in before him.A Masonic VSL was presented to Bro Steel by the Representative with fine ritual. W Bro Richard Smedley sang the song to the visitors, and, at the end, "Happy to meet again" with everyone joining in the choruses, so we took our leave of each other with the melody in our minds. It was quite a late finish, for there had been much to do, but it had been well managed. W Bros Hall and Hinchcliff had a long journey - they had come from Middlesborough, but it had been a pleasure to welcome them to Thesaurus's last night at Dagger Lane, We hope to see them again at a future occasion at Beverley Road.

Eddie WIldman, Organist.

 

 

Tuesday 11th November 2025:

Business Night

by Eddie Wildman

Many Lodges hold their "business nights" on the meeting prior to the Installation night, sometimes, but frequently not accompanied by a ceremony. There was no ceremony planned for Humber 57, but the meeting was well supported and not without incident.

This year it fell on the eleventh of the month, and as Worshipful Master I asked the Lodge to stand before the Lodge was opened as we reflected for a moment on those Brethren who gave their lives in conflict for the benefit of others.

"We shall remember them."

The rest of the Lodge business was a "tidying up of loose ends" as it were, following a script ballot for the Master Elect.

I was pleased to welcome W Bro Malcolm Forbes to join me on the dais for the rest of the evening in the Lodge Room at Dagger Lane. W Bro Terry Fisher was re-elected as Treasurer.

Various offices relating to the administration of the Lodge were decided upon and happy continuity between Masters thereby maintained. The Lodge is blessed with Brethren of considerable administrative skills, I am pleased to say. I myself have the administrative abilities of a goldfish.

I delivered a "nugget" relating how the ancient 1° penalty has its roots in Hull, and there were reports as usual. I was delighted to present Bothers Jamie Knott and Jason Smith with their UGLE Master Masons certificates and briefly to explain the symbolism of the ornaments and furniture depicted thereon. We are enjoined as Masons in the annual address to the Wardens to practise outside the Lodge those duties we are taught in it, to apply the Masonic principles we profess to our everyday lives.

Reports were given and I struck the closing gavel for the last time as WM in the Lodge Room before we retired to eat.

Not all the Brethren stayed for the Festive Board but it concluded a pleasant evening. The Master Elect was toasted. (This peculiar expression conjured up for me the image of the Master Elect being held in front of a roaring fire, but actually dates back to the ancient Roman practice of adding a piece of spiced or charred bread to wine to improve its flavor, which was known as tostus or "toasted" bread. Sometimes the wine was bitter, and the addition of spicey grilled bread to the goblet absorbed acidity and warmed the drink. Over time, the term shifted from the bread itself to the ritual of drinking and wishing good fortune, a custom that continued even after the bread was no longer a part of the drink. The practice of drinking someone's health dates even further back, to the ancient Greeks making libations to the gods and each other.)

W Bro Forbes responded with unexpected brevity, which was much appreciated. Consequently the Parting Toast was given before 9.30 and the Brethren retired. "Well, that's the last Parting Toast I give as Master," I said to myself. "I'll open the next Humber Lodge, and go back to being the Organist." A not unattractive prospect.

Eddie Wildman, WM

 

 

Saturday 8th November 2025 p.m.:

 

The Installation Ballet: A Night of Masonic Grace Under Pressure

There are evenings in Freemasonry that sparkle not because everything goes to plan, but because everything doesn’t — and yet somehow, it all comes together with poise, purpose, and a touch of theatrical flair. Such was the case at Lord Bolton’s Installation Meeting, a night that will be remembered not for its perfection, but for its poetry in motion.

With just hours to go before the ceremony, word came that their Worshipful Master had been taken ill. A hush fell over the Brethren. Would they postpone? Cancel? Not a chance!

In true Masonic spirit, the Brethren rallied. Aprons were dusted off, ritual books cracked open, and roles reassigned with the urgency of a West End understudy call sheet. The Lodge Secretary W Bro Martin Tompkins stepped up to the Master’s Chair with the calm of a swan that gracefully moves on a lake, a picture of elegance in motion but what is hidden from the eye is the activity going on beneath the water’s surface! The Director of Ceremonies, W Bro Alan Shand became a maestro of movement, orchestrating a flurry of whispered instructions and subtle nods. Brethren who had come expecting to sit quietly in the South suddenly found themselves donning collars and brushing up on ritual lines. As Lodge Support Officer I found myself standing in for Bro Secretary, quickly refreshing my memory of the fifteen charges I hadn’t uttered since pre-covid days!

What unfolded was nothing short of a ballet — not the kind with tutus and pirouettes, but one of silent signals, graceful sidesteps, and seamless transitions. The Brethren moved around the lodge room with the elegance of seasoned dancers, each knowing their cue, each trusting the next to carry the rhythm.

And what a rhythm it was. Maestro W Bro Wildman of Humber Lodge 57 provided a musical accompaniment that elevated the evening from mere ceremony to something almost theatrical. His organ playing was both sensitive and spirited — gently underscoring the solemnity of the ritual, then lifting the mood with triumphant flourishes as officers took their stations. At times, it felt as though the music itself was guiding his steps, as he vied swiftly between Organist and Inner Guard duties, transforming the lodge room into a stage where tradition met artistry. The final chords rang out like a curtain call, met with appreciative nods and murmurs of “well played” from every corner.

The Installing Master, himself a last-minute substitute, delivered the ritual with warmth and gravitas, his voice steady and sure. The Working Tools were presented with clarity and conviction, and the Address to the Brethren delivered by Bro Jamie Bird was met with heartfelt approval. What made the evening so memorable wasn’t just the successful execution of the ceremony, but the spirit in which it was done. There was laughter in the room, quiet encouragement in the wings, and a palpable sense of unity throughout. It was a reminder that while ritual is our framework, it is Brotherhood that gives it life.

As the final gavel fell and we retired to the festive board, the room buzzed not with relief, but with pride. The toasts were heartfelt, the harmony was rich, and the new Master Colin Bird now comfortably seated in the Chair raised his glass to the Brethren who had turned a potential disaster into a triumph of teamwork. These sentiments were warmly endorsed by the Representative of the Provincial Grand Master, W Bro David Burnett, who commended the Lodge for its resilience, dignity, and the evident strength of its fraternal bonds.

In the end, the Installation was not just a ceremony — it was a performance, a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the Craft. Like a well-rehearsed ballet, it was beautiful not because it was flawless, but because it was alive, responsive, and full of heart. To the Brethren who stepped up, stepped in, and stepped around the lodge room with such grace — Bravo. You reminded us all that when the lights go up and the music starts, the show must go on.

[Photos: Brethren and visitors at the Lord Bolton Installation: W Bro Leigh Richardson, ProvGSwd, DC to the Representative; W Bro David Burnett PSGD representing the RWPGM; and W Bro Colin Bird, Worshipful Master of the Lord Bolton Lodge.]

Neil Armstrong.

 

Saturday 9th November 20205 a.m.:

Knights Templar at Selby Abbey

by Eddie Wildman

A number of Humber 57 Brethren are also members of the Humber Knights Templar (Preceptory 223) and it was a pleasure to travel with Eminent Knight Craig Maurier (on this occasion part of the Knights of Malta delegation for the Province) and Knight Craig Morrison (pictured), who carried the banner for the Humber Preceptory in the impressive processional in Selby Abbey with his usual uncompromising military dignity.

It was a splendid occasion, with the service beforehand, followed by the annual convocation presided over by the Provincial Prior Eminent Knight Keith Marshall.

The essential qualification for being a member of the United Religious, Military and Masonic Order of the Temple and of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta is membership of Craft Lodge and Chapter.

It is a Christian order which emphasises chivalry and brotherhood. Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to purchase a horse. Feel free to ask us about it!

  

Eminent Knight Eddie Wildman, Provincial Prelate.

 

 

 

Wednesday 5th November 2025:

Kingston Initiation Ceremony

by Eddie Wildman

November the fifth: the night sky was illuminated by fireworks, but also by a super beaver moon, which was larger and brighter because of its close proximity to the earth. The coincidence of Guy Fawkes Night and the full moon is approximately every nineteen years (the full moon cycle repeating every 29.5 days.) Marcus Whereat, Lodge DC and astronomer remembered the last time it occurred. He was on duty as a police officer. He caught two kids playing with a car battery and a firework. He charged one and let the other off.

At Beverley Road the Lodge members were preparing for a first degree ceremony: Mr Jake Mcleavy, brother to Mike Mcleavy, Fellow Craft Freemason and Steward of the Lodge, was about to become a Brother to all the Lodge members. "No need to worry," Malcolm Watson told him, "I'm standing in as Junior Deacon and will be leading you round the Lodge."

It was a good meeting. The WM, W Bro Mike Price (his name features on the L 1010 honours board for 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2024) opened the Lodge with calm efficiency, and essential business concluded, waited for the knock from the Tyler, W Bro Morgan. W Bro Watkinson conducted Mr Mcleavy through the opening with great dignity.

In the ancient Emulation tradition much of the ritual was delivered by the WM, but after the Senior Warden, Bro Wayne Walker invested the newly-made Brother with his apron, W Bro Whereat gave the address at the Northeast Corner of the Lodge and Brother Brother Michael Mcleavy explained the Working Tools. The Ancient Charge was delivered by the Lodge Lecture Master, W Bro Simon Ramshaw.

Bro Jake Mcleavy retired to restore himself, and the Secretary, W Bro Neil Armstrong dealt with the reports and correspondance, recalling that in 1969 he'd been given a large rocket to set off. He was over the moon.

Bro Jake returned in time for the closing of the Lodge, after which photographs were taken.

The toast to the Candidate at the Festive Board was proposed by Bro Mike Mcleavy, the Entered Apprentice's Song was sung in a range of keys and tonalities, the WM giving the explanation of the Masonic Chain just before the last verse. Bro Jake responded eloquently.

Some of the wives of the Brethren had attended, though they didn't join the gentlemen for the ceremony or the meal. Leaving the Lodge building in moonlight with his good lady afterwards, Michael Price suddenly sprouted hair and began to howl. "Michael," gasped Angela, "you're turning into a wolf!" "Yes," he replied, "I am a were."

Congratulation to Brother Jake and all who took part in his ceremony!

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

  

 

Sunday 2nd November 2025:

Semper Paratus Lodge 10076

by Malcolm Forbes

The Lodge's membership represents Brethren whose careers are related to the emergency and rescue services. The Lodge's mother Lodge is Invictus Lodge 9960 which meets in York and whose Brethren have connections with the Armed Services.

The Lodge meeting I attended was the first regular meeting since the Lodge's Consecration and Installation meeting on 5th October 2025. Unusually the Lodge meets on Sundays at Trinity Lane Masonic Hall Beverley.

The pre-meeting atmosphere was buzzing as over seventy Brethren were in attendance. There were twenty-two visitors from across the Province.

Refreshments of tea/coffee and a bacon butty added to the joviality beforehand.

The Temple was almost full to capacity when the Lodge tyled at 11.30 am.

Worshipful Master W Bro Mark Iveson, an Assistant Provincial Grand Master, presided over the meeting. Either side of him was fellow Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W Bro Chris Thomas, and Lecture Master W Bro Paul Harper. Director of Ceremonies W Bro Ben Kelly ably conducted the meeting with a light touch.

The Deputy Provincial Grand Master W Bro Bill Glanville was the Lodge Secretary.

The first substantive part of the meeting was a ballot for Bro Jason Smith, a member of Humber Lodge 57, and lecturer in police studies at Bishop Burton College. The ballot was clear.

The main business of the meeting was to initiate Mr Thomas Moate and Mr Joseph Wilkin in a double ceremony. The emulation ritual came together well through the hard work of W Bro Harper. Pieces of the ritual were innovative. W Bro Terry Scott, the Worshipful Master of Juno Lodge 10001 read a poem encapsulating the ceremony. The Antient Charge was presented by four members of the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge, including W Bro Jimmie Kerr, a member of De La Pole Lodge 1605. The ceremony was well choreographed and credit is due to all the ritualists. WM W Bro Iveson exercised his authority with humour as well as dignity.

Lodge reports followed the ceremony. In the absence of Charity Steward, W Bro Martin Eggermont, another Assistant Provincial Grand Master who is a member of the Lodge, W Bro Glanville announced that the raffle at the Festive Board would be in support of Festival 29.

The greetings were fulsome in their praise of the ceremony. I gave greetings as WM of De La Pole Lodge. Bro Jason Smith gave greetings on behalf of Humber Lodge with the WM W Bro Eddie Wildman,  Junior Warden Matthew Barber, Bro James Wright and myself in support.

The dining area downstairs was similarly almost full to the rafters as Brethren sat down to a two course meal prepared by W Bro Glanville's wife Julie and her assistant Pam. The merriment throughout the Festive Board reflected the close knit ties between members of the emergency and rescue services.

A full toast list was submitted/proposed. The seven verses of the Entered Apprentices Song were led off by W Bro Tony Dyer, the Senior Warden who sang the first verse, and W Bro Dr Hitendra Thakur, the Junior Warden, who sang the second verse. For the seventh verse a Masonic circle with explanation from W Bro Dyer was formed. The two initiates Bro Moate and Bro Wilkin both responded eloquently to their toasts.

The response to the visitors toast was given by W Bro Sean Carroll, a member of Invictus Lodge. Again it was a reflection on the enjoyment which everyone had experienced throughout the day.

WM W Bro Iveson in his parish notes looked forward to future meetings and future joining members and initiates as the Lodge looks to continue to thrive.

Tyler W Bro Bill Hartley delivered the Tyler's toast before WM W Bro Iveson concluded with the Parting toast.

W Bro Wildman, whose musical accompaniment throughout provided a perfect backdrop to the proceedings, was a very welcome passenger as I drove back. It had been a thoroughly entertaining day with the accolades going to the Worshipful Master and Brethren of Semper Paratus Lodge.

Malcolm Forbes

 

 

 

 

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