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Archive 2026

Friday 29th May 2026:

Ed Thompson and Eddie Wildman travelled to Northallerton to the Anchor Chapter 1337 to claim the travelling sceptre. Their report of the event may be found on the Chapter Blog page for this date.

 

Thursday 28th May 2026:

Lodge of St Michael 7833 Installation
By Eddie Wildman

The Installation of W Bro Stephen Norman Longthorp was well attended; it was good to see so many visitors. The five o’ clock start precluded some of them (and one or two of the St Michael Brethren) from being there at the very beginning, and it created (I later discovered) some parking issues; the newly-appointed Senior Warden had to run to move his car to another spot after the ceremony was over. Fortunately he is fit and has long legs, so he made it back for the photocall at the end.

The WM, W Bro David Whittall and his Wardens entered at the appointed hour to the tune of Holst’s Thaxted and the Lodge was opened with alacrity and efficiency. An escort was formed for the Representative of the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, W Bro Dr Hitendra Kumar Bhupendra Thaker, Deputy Grand Superintendent in the Chapter under the dignified direction of his DC, W Bro Marcus Whereat who was subsequently saluted. (W Bros Whereat, Thaker and Longthorp, the new WM are pictured.)

The Installation followed the familiar pattern and remarkably rapidly for this friendliest of Lodges, which is well known for the length of its ceremonial. I’ll not go through every detail; the retirement of the 1° and 2° Brethren, followed by the Master Masons; some truncation was possible as W Bro Longthorp has been through the Chair before. Once invested, the Brethren were admitted and perambulated round as the new WM was proclaimed; W Bro Peter Stokes rendered the anthem magnificently. W Bro Longthorp appointed and invested his Officers, with a judicial proportion of them recycled, but it is good to see that the younger Brethren are taking office, and indeed, a number of Brethren are to be initiated during the year. The Lodge is looking healthy.

The address to the Master was given by W Bro John Broughton, that to the Wardens by me, and the address to the Brethren by Bro Burton from the SW’s Chair.

While it is unusual to exclude a Brother, and especially during an Installation, this was voted on according to the regulations, and a recalcitrant Brother who has neither attended nor paid his dues removed from the register before the Lodge was required to pay for another year of his membership.

The word register traces back back to the 14th century; the Latin “registrum” was an official written account from the verb “regerere” (re – back, gerere – carry) – a written ledger or book. However, in the 16th century the word’s meaning evolved to include the unrelated Latin root regere – to rule, guide, or keep straight. Thus as regular Masons we keep “to the rules” and our Lodges are “regular” – i.e. conforming to the rules in the Book of Constitutions and the instructions of UGLE. We also keep a register.

On a happier note, the WM presented a cheque for £500 to W Bro Thaker for Festival 2029 which was gratefully and eloquently received.

Reports followed, greetings were extended by W Bro Ken Graham on behalf of UGLE, W Bro Hiten Thaker invited the Provincial Officers to stand and gave Provincial greetings on their behalf. Eleven Lodges were represented in the visitors’ greetings that followed before the SW, Bro John Irving Burton, (pictured on the WM's right, the JW, Peter Stokes on his left) submitted hearty greetings and congratulations on behalf of L7833.

The Lodge was closed and the Brethren retired – a few returning for photographs, but the lure of a cool drink at the bar dissuaded many.

The new JW, W Bro Peter Stokes sang the Worshipful Masters Song at the Festive Board.

The Lodge of St Michael is the only one I know that sings Auld Lang Syne at the end of every meeting, but this final act of togetherness is very moving; like the others, I left with a smile on my face. The IPM has initiated the mantra that this is the Happiest Lodge. Long may it continue.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

Wednesday 27 May 2026:

See the Chapter blog for a brief report on the Thesaurus Chapter meeting.

 

 

 

Tuesday 19th May 2026 at Dagger Lane: 

Floreat nostra vetus schola logia

by Eddie Wildman

I was in mid-flow as guest organist when the DC banged his gavel to announce the arrival of the WM and his Wardens into the Lodge Room at Dagger Lane and the principle Officers entered and took their seats. W Bro Emmanuel Rashid Musah opened the Lodge efficiently, with the usual "flight check" confirming the position and duties of the main officers. Greetings were given before a report from W Bro Stephen Burns, ProvGStwd informed the Brethren that the representative of the RWPGM, W Bro Michael de Villamar-Roberts was outside the Lodge requesting admission. An escort of Provincial Officers (who on this occasion outnumbered the Light Blue Brethren) was formed and W Bro V-Roberts processed in accompanied by the requested piece of Handel on the organ.

The minutes of the last regular meeting were passed and signed.

There being no Entered Apprentices present, the Lodge was raised to the 2° and the Candidate for the evening's ceremony, Bro Vladimir Tutanu, was examined in the questions leading to the 3°, which he answered admirably. The Fellowcrafts retired, and after proving his competence as a Fellowcraft Freemason himself to the Worshipful Master, Bro Tutianu was directed to the Senior Warden, Bro David Stockton, who shared the necessary information for gaining entry to a Master Masons' Lodge. The Candidate retired and the Lodge was opened in the Third Degree.

A late arrival from Constitutional Lodge was admitted; the traffic had been horrendous and parking impossible because of a film production closing some local roads.

I will not reveal details of the 3°, except to say that it was interesting to hear the obligation recited by the WM and repeated by the Candidate. The former is African, the latter Rumanian, so both were using a second language. The obligation is a formidable learning task even in English, so I was filled with admiration to hear it with two distinctive accents, highlighting the universality of the Craft, and I was reminded of Rudyard Kipling's words (he was a noted Victorian journalist and poet who spent much of his working life in India. He was also a Freemason, pictured right.)

          " . . . there is neither East nor West, Border, nor Breed, nor Birth,

          When two strong men stand face to face, tho' they come from the ends of the earth."

The Retrospect was delivered by W Bro Tom Lee of the Humber Lodge 57, and the Sprig of Acacia movingly recited by the IPM, W Bro Duncan Taylor. The SW invested Bro Tutianu - a man of considerable girth - with the 3° apron after which the DC, W Bro Geoffrey Branton gave a fine account of the historical oration. W Bro James Mackman communicated the secrets of the degree - I reflected that he had done the same for me some forty-odd years ago. W Bro Luscombe explained the Working Tools. W Bro Graeme Reid delivered the Charge.

While some consider the Third Degree to be the final step in Freemasonry, it is possible to advance further, and there is a Q&A exchange leading to the Royal Arch Chapter. This was demonstrated by the Master and the Wardens, after which Master Mason Vlad retired to restore himself to his suit and tie. The Lodge was lowered to the First Degree and the Closing Hymn was sung before the Brethren retired. I managed to take a photograph of Steve Burns (Rep's DC), Michael de Villimar-Roberts (Representative of the RWPGM), Bro Vlad Tutianu (Master Mason) and Emmanuel Musah (WM) before they went downstairs for the Festive Board.

The meal followed a Greenland theme and was differently delicious. Following a recent Lodge tradition, the winner of the raffle chose the theme of the next meal, which in deference to Bro Tutianu, will be Rumanian. The visitors (Constitutional 294, St Michael 7833 and Humber 57) made themselves useful by helping to steward. W Bro V-Roberts spoke about Change and its implications in modern Freemasonry and exhorted the Brethren to consider the importance of retention. He mentioned the affliliation of the Federation of School Lodges which does not appear to operate in current times and his own education in the rival Hymers College ("We played cricket with the Grammarians. I remember breaking a window.") The Junior Warden, Bro Charles Cordeaux, mentioned the hymn sung in the toast to Absent, Sick and Seafaring Brethren. "Melita" is universally known as the naval hymn, and the music is by John Bacchus Dykes, who was born less than a mile away from the Lodge in 1823. I responded briefly to the Visitors' toast.

W Bro Martin Rowland very kindly gave me a lift home. On the way to the car, we passed a number of huge filming vehicles, watchfully guarded; there was some night filming going on in the Old Town. Though the guards were close-lipped about the "Hullywood" production, it is thought that it will be a Victorian period horror. Fascias of shopfronts (a coffin-maker, a barber ("Shave for a penny") etc. are in place and the red-brick walls and cobbled streets are beautifully period. One sign reads "Shaw's Ltd. High Class Artificial Teeth.") Of course by this time it was dark, and there was no vehicular access, but we could see the bright filming lights with an artificially created fog which looked impressively spooky. It occurred to me that the twenty-first century features of the Old Town will have to be removed - such as the double yellow lines on the road. I believe the pubs are still open to the public, however. "It will predate the Old Grammarians' Lodge," I said to Martin. "It was consecrated in 1929. But the Old Grammar School was founded about 1330. The Old School song was 'Floreat Nostra Schola' - may our school flourish. But it is no more, alas. Perhaps the Lodge should consider 'Floreat nostra vitus schola logia' - may our old school's Lodge flourish.'"

"You are being boring," said Martin.

Eddie Wildman, visitor

 

 

Tuesday 19th May 2026 at Beverley Road:

 

Andrew Marvell Lodge 5642

by Malcolm Forbes

 

The Lodge's monthly Lodge meeting was brought forward from Monday 25th May to avoid a clash with the Spring Bank Holiday Monday. The Lodge meeting was the last before the Lodge's summer recess until September.

The twelve Brethren attending included visitor W Bro Laurie Fenwick, the Secretary of De La Pole Lodge 1605.

The relaxed atmosphere throughout the evening reflected well on Worshipful Master W Bro Ian Fuller.

The main business of the Lodge meeting was to hear a talk on the Second Degree Tracing Board from W Bro Tom Cawkwell (pictured below.) As there were no Entered Apprentices present it was unnecessary to have a full Opening of the Lodge in the Second Degree. W Bro Cawkwell delivered his talk with his customary authority and good humour. A daily advancement in Masonic knowledge was made by everyone present. The Lodge was then lowered back into the First Degree by the authority of the Worshipful Master without the full closing of the Lodge in the Second Degree.

Lodge reports were then presented. In my Charity Steward's report I mooted the possibility that the Lodge's traditional Charity Night where the Lodge supports nominated local charities be taken off the schedule for the October Lodge meeting to allow for more space for possible second degree ceremonies the Lodge will be looking to hold in the autumn. The Lodge will, it is hoped, instead be able to concentrate on raising further funds for Festival 29.

During the risings as Worshipful Master of De La Pole Lodge I rose as Worshipful Brother Fenwick gave greetings on behalf of the Lodge, reflecting that at around the same time, W Bro Wildman would be giving greetings for the Humber Lodge elsewhere.

A cold three meat buffet awaited the Brethren at the Festive Board. It was most delicious.

Discussion at the Festive Board turned to non-Masonic matters as news filtered through that Hull City would be playing Middlesbrough and not Southampton in Saturday's Championship play-off final at Wembley. Worshipful Master W Bro Fuller, a lifelong Hull City supporter, will be travelling down to Wembley to watch the match.

Only two toasts were submitted. W Bro Fuller confirmed that the Lodge will be holding two fish and chips suppers at Beverley Road Masonic Hall on 22nd June and 15th September with invitations being sent to Brethren and their families. A possible Sunday lunch at Beverley Road on 5th July in conjunction with De La Pole Lodge Brethren, family and friends was also announced.

W Bro Fuller delivered the parting toast at 8.45 pm.

Although the curtain was drawn until the next Lodge meeting on 28th September, the planned Lodge social events will help maintain the friendship and harmony of the Lodge during the summer break.

As I gave Bro Chris Wright a lift home we reflected on another fulfilling evening for the Lodge and its Brethren.

Malcolm Forbes, Charity Steward

 

 

Monday 18th May 2026:

Holderness Lodge 3563 Installation

Report by Eddie Wildman

W Bro Danny Betts opened the Lodge efficiently and his well-practised Officers responded appropriately, and the VSL was opened. The Tyler informed the Lodge in the time-honoured way that someone outside requested admission, and W Bro Daniel Stephen, Provincial Grand Steward entered with the message that without the Lodge stood Assistant Provincial Grand Master Harry Elliott.

Originally W Bro Elliott had been booked to visit on this occasion, but events intervened and he had been invested with his high rank at York earlier in the month (see 9th May below). Rather than cause difficulties, he had opted to continue with the planned visit, now in his new role, but without the usual escort of Active Provincial Officers. I was quietly impressed by this unassuming humility, and was glad to see that an escort was formed within the Lodge, which retired to provide a suitable welcome. Grand Officers had remained outside, including W Bros Paul Harper and Richard Smedley, and with the Provincial officers lined up for the entry of the new ruler, a magnificent display. W Bro Elliott entered in style, and was saluted by the assembled Lodge.

The WM and the APGM signed the minutes, and reports were given. A joint Lodge venture had raised a thousand pounds for Charity; the joining of local Lodges in such enterprises is becoming popular and reaping dividends.

The main event of the evening was the installation of the new WM, Bro Lee Atkinson. The Entered Apprentices retired (traditionally Installations begin in the 2°) and Bro Lee Atkinson was presented by W Bro Rollo Smallwood, a senior member of the Lodge who at ninety-three was a fine example to the younger Brethren. Bro Atkinson was addressed from the Chair, and ascertained that he could conscientiously accept the Office. The Secretary read the essential Charges and Bro Atkinson indicated his acceptance of their terms before being obligated by the WM.

The Fellowcrafts then retired (including Bro Atkinson's stepfather who had travelled from Blackpool to witness Lee in his new role), the Lodge was raised to the 3° and all Offices were declared vacant. The Master Masons retired and W Bro Danny Betts opened the Board of Installed Masters, about which I will only say that Bro Atkinson was presented and further obligated and learned the sign and word pertaining to the degree.

Worshipful Brother Lee Atkinson then invested W Bro Danny Betts as the Immediate Past Master of the Lodge, and the Worshipful Brethren congratulated both the WM and the IPM on the superb investiture. The Master Masons reentered and perambulated round the Lodge in the traditional manner, saluting the new Master in the Chair. The working tools of the degree were flawlessly delivered by Bro James Anderson. A similar process took place in the second and first degrees, and the Lodge Warrant (dating from 1912) was presented along with the mandatory Book of Constitutions.

The address to the Master was given by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, I delivered the address to the Wardens and W Bro Richard Tyson gave the address to the Brethren.

I had been learning the latter address, and was a little alarmed that the version I'd been learning was not the ritual delivered on this occasion. Checking with Danny Betts afterwards, I said I would try to memorise the longer version in time for the Minerva Installation next month. (Gulp!)

W Bro Richard Smedley sang the Masonic Anthem, the new WM thanked his predecessor and all the Brethren, and the ceremony of Installion being complete, regular Lodge business was conducted including correspondance and greetings. There were nineteen visitors, from eleven Lodges, including amongst them Liverpool and Blackpool. W Bro Lee Atkinson closed the Lodge in due form. Afterwards I took some snapshots.

Luke Pyrah's melt-in-the mouth chicken pie was well appreciated before the toasts began. The Master introduced the APGM at the fifth toast, mentioning W Bro Elliott's work in the Royal Military Police serving throughout the world. W Bro Elliot responded, commending the WM who has already proved his willingness to become involved in his Masonic work as a PGStwd. He congratulated W Bro Betts as a first class Installing Officer, and remarked that it was good to see the junior Brethren involved in the ceremony, mentioning the Working Tools in particular. They were the future of the Lodge, he said. He spoke of the recent changes in management and reiterated the RWPGM's thoughts that we should now look to the future, with his promise "If things go wrong, we will put them right." The responsibilities of the rulers were now changed: W Bro Elliott was in charge of membership, and was encouraging the bringing in of new blood, and also of looking to retention. "It's no good inviting them in the front door if they're soon to disappear out of the back. We should look to engagement - and to encouraging Brethren to return to the fold when the opportunity arises." He also mentioned the UGLE initiative "building together", promoted the advance of Master Masons to the Chapter, and encouraged the Brethren to advance their learning through the Solomon programme.

The toast to the WM was proposed by W Bro Malvin Sharpless, Senior Warden, and W Bro Atkinson responded briefly and eloquently after W Bro Smedley's lovely rendition of the Master's Song. Similarly, he sang the Visitors Song following the toast to the many visitors, to which W Bro Malcolm Forbes responded. The Absent rethren toast was submitted by the Junior Warden, Bro Lee Anderson.

The final song was the parting toast and the Brethren joined in the chorus "Happy to meet again." It had been a long night, but a happy one, and the Brethren departed with smiles on their faces.

[Pictured: W Bro Danny Betts; SW Malvin Sharpless, WM Lee Atkinson and JW James Anderson; Holderness Brethren and visitors; the WM with two Entered Apprentices (they share the same barber); APGM Harry Elliot  and the WM.]

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

 

Saturday 16th May 2026:

Second Degree at Technical Lodge 5666

Report by Eddie Wildman

 

The second degree in Freemasonry is sometimes regarded as only a half-way house between Initiation and becoming a Master Mason, but it is more important than that. The Candidate is now familiar with Masonic procedures such as the opening and closing of the Lodge and the protocols to be observed in the Lodge Room. In this degree he is exhorted to develop these skills and to become more world-aware; in this age of technological advancement the second-degree advice is perhaps more meaningful than ever before.The second degree is a step on the road to Mastership and ultimately the Chapter, but it is a significant step.

The WM, W Bro Arash Vesali opened the Lodge efficiently, and a member of the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge announced that a Representative of the RWPGM was requesting admission. An escort was formed to bring in W Bro Paul Harper and this worthy and worshipful Brother took his seat next to the Master to oversee the signing of the minutes from the last meeting. Many Brethren will not be aware that when a Representative is visiting, he has taken care to familiarise himself with the Lodge business over the last six months or so, and is looking forward to seeing in real life those Brethren he has read about.

Entered Apprentic Brother Michael Carr was questioned about the 1° and answered fluently and confidently, so the WM directed him to the Senior Warden, Bro Adam Tunnicliffe who entrusted him with the necessary password for entering a Fellowcraft Freemasons' Lodge, along with the historical back story. Bro Carr retired for preparation and there being no other Entered Apprentices present, the Lodge was raised to the 2°.

Now under the direction of the Senior Deacon, Bro Ed Thompson, Bro Carr reentered and was presented to the Wardens to show that he was properly prepared. The Acting Tyler, W Bro Frank Lovely had ensured this was done, and Bro Carr was led by the proper steps to the pedestal, where he was obligated by the Worshipful Master. W Bro Vesali was impressive: to learn the ritual is a feat in itself; to learn it in a second language is particularly difficult, but Bro Carr responded satisfactorily. The WM pointed out the significance of the Square and Compasses in the 2°, and the signs and word restricted to Fellowcrafts were admirably explained by Bro David Turner. I'll not dilate on the investiture of the apron by the SW, the address at the Southeast Corner by W Bro Antony James or the presentation of the Working Tools by Bro Ken Wright; all were excellent.

The Chaplain became uncomfortably indisposed during the meeting, and left the Lodge Room to recover (he looked much better at the festive board) so the Charge was delivered by Bro Turner. This is a challenging piece of ritual - I was well impressed. The principal officers recited the Q&As leading to the next degree before Bro Carr went to restore himself to his suit and tie, and the Lodge was lowered to the 1°.

I had the privilege of presenting a Grand Lodge Certificate to Bro John Hemingway - I was a little embarrassed as this was the perogative of the Representative, but the latter insisted. W Bro Paul Harper was however pleased to receive a cheque for the Festival. Bro Carr came back in suit and tie during the reports and was able to witness the exchange.

Greetings were extended from the Humber Lodge 57 and the Phoenix Lodge 9963, and the Master Closed the Lodge smartly.

Luke Pyrah's meal was delicious as always and the new toast list was in operation afterwards. W Bro Harper spoke of the new team of Rulers, and remarked that in times of change such as these there is still a modicum of apprehension and dissatisfaction, and the new team deserve our respect and support. "Be as warm and friendly as you can," he said, while complimenting the Technical Lodge, which unlike many others "is not in decline." 

The Senior Warden welcomed the visitors, mentioning the chat round the table which had included Masonry in both Malta and Barcelona. The Visitors song was sung by Bro David Turner. Bro Craig Eastburn of the Phoenix Lodge responded, remarking that it was the first time he had seen a Lodge premabulation during the closing hymn, and congratulating Bro Carr on his attaining the degree of a Fellowcraft Freemason.

The raffle raised £155, and the Master gave notice that the Ladies Night was planned for the 11th September. W Bro Jonathan Sykes, the Lodge Lecture Master sang the song "Happy to meet again" with the Brethren joining in the chorus before the WM concluded the evening with the Parting Toast. It had been a lovely evening, David Turner agreed as he gave me a lift home (thanks, Dave!)

[Pictures: Bro Michael Carr, FCM with Rep W Bro Paul Harper and WM W Bro Arash Vesali;Bro John Hemingway and W Bro Eddie Wildman; W Bros Paul Harper and Arash Vesali.]

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

Wednesday 13th May 2026:

Initiation at the Lodge of St Andrew

by Eddie Wildman

Apologies to the Minerva Lodge, who were holding their pre-installation business meeting. I hadn't marked in my diary that I was to present a Grand Lodge Certificate there that evening. Consequently I was double-booked, and had agreed with the Lodge of St Andrew that I would communicate the Signs and Word for their new initiate, Shane Jackson.

I was punished as I set out to walk to Beverley Road, for the heavens opened and a malignant downpour of sleet and hail drenched me - I was soaking by the time I made it to the bus stop, and continued my journey gently steaming on public transport. Serves me right, I thought, for being so stupid.

However, taking the bus meant that I arrived early so I had plenty of time to dry out. A gin and tonic helped enormously. I was good to see familiar faces (though numbers were down) and to greet visitors from the Earl of Yarborough Lodge 2770 in the Masonic Province of Lincolnshire and from Juno Lodge 10001 whom I'd visited last month. I of course would give greetings from Humber 57.

The Worshipful Master, W Bro William Charlton opened the Lodge efficiently. There was not a ritual book in sight, and all who took part spoke clearly. A portion of the Ancient Charge was read, and the minutes of the previous meeting accepted and signed. Two ballots for new Candidates were held, both succesfully.

The main business of the evening was to initiate Mr Shane Jackson. He was admitted by his proposer, Bro Okikiola Iman, the Inner Guard, the first person an initiate encounters on entering the Lodge. In the capable hands of Bro Cawood, the Junior Deacon, Mr Jackson was smartly conducted round the Lodge (to the tune Lux Benigna on the organ. This well-known hymn tune is by the Hull-born John Bacchus Dykes - who is also responsible for two other tunes used by this Lodge, and I always feel it is appropriate in local Lodges.) The Senior Warden, Bro Robert Thirsk, presented him to the Master, and Mr Jackson was beautifully obligated by W Bro Charlton, who pointed out to the newly-made Bro Jackson the three great lights in Freemasonry, on which he had taken his obligation.

The lesser lights were indicated by Bro Mark Douglas, after which I was privileged to explain the signs Entered Apprentice Freemasons use as their identification code. Some Candidates begin to glaze over at this stage as the formality and measured language of the ritual can be somewhat overwhelming, but Brother Jackson was paying close attention, and flawlessly repeated the signs and words when presented to the Junior Warden, Bro Phil Beadle, and the Senior Warden, Bro Robert Thirsk. Bro Thirsk invested him with the distinctive white leather apron of an Entered Apprentice.

The address at the Northeast Corner was given by the IPM, W Bro James Billaney. Bro Eliot Clawson presented the ritual regarding the Warrant, pointing out the authority under which we act as Freemasons in a well paced delivery. The Senior Deacon, Bro Nick Hammond explained the symbolism of the Working Tools after which the Ancient Charge was impressively given by W Bro Glyn Davies, the Acting DC.

Bro Jackson retired to restore himself to his smart suit and was readmitted during the Reports, which included reference to last Saturday's Investiture in York. Correspondance and Apologies were swiftly dealt with by the Secretary, W Bro Ian Sugarman, and greetings extended from UGLE, the Province, the visitors and the St Andrew Brethren.

The Closing was as well practised as the opening, after which I had the opportunity for a couple of snapshots before retiring to the dining room below. Above: Bro Lee Cawood, JD; Bro Shane Jackson, EAF; and W Bro William J Charlton, WM. To the right is a selection of Brethren (some were already at the bar, alas, some were busy tidying away the Lodge artifacts) smiling after a well-performed ceremony.

Chef Luke Pyrah had again produced magnificent fare with Fish and Chips (and the opportunity to make a chip butty) and we all dined well. The Acting DC led the firing after the toasts to music: the new toast list came into operation for the first time for the Lodge of St Andrew this evening. Bro Imam (on the left of the group picture) proposed the toast to the Candidate, talking of his military connections and his fitness training and recommending him to the Brethren. After the singing of the Entered Apprentice Song and the explanation of the Masonic Chain, Bro Jackson responded, thanking the Brethren for accepting him. He had found it fascinating, he told us, and was looking forward to this next stepping stone in his life: "I actually feel like I belong," he said, thanking Bro Imam for his kind words and the terms of his toast.

Bro Dave Emerton of the Juno Lodge responded to the toast to the visitors, thanking the WM for a wonderful evening.

The Absent Brethren toast (in the hands of the JW) was followed by the singing of Melita - another Dykes favourite. (The other Dykes hymn used in this Lodge is St Sylvester - the Closing Hymn.)

I was most surprised to be presented with a hamper from the Lodges for services rendered in the past. I was very moved and almost at a loss for words. "Thank you all," I said, "It will help my battle with anorexia."

It had been a delightful evening. Bro Cawood gave me a lift home (Thanks, Lee!)

Congratulations to the Lodge of St Andrew and congratulations to its newest member, Brother Shane Jackson!

Eddie Wildman, guest organist.

 

 

Tuesday 12th May 2026:

Humber Founders Night

by Matthew Barber

Humber 57's May meeting had a slight delay to proceedings as members made their way up to the Lodge room, the very slow stair lift being to blame on this occasion. WM Malcolm Forbes was preceded into the Lodge room by the DC, W Bro Whitfield and the Lodge was opened in due and antient form.

The first item for discussion was to move the start time from 18:30 to 19:00, a motion which was carried and will be implemented from June. The main business of the evening was to pass Bro Edge to the 2nd degree. He was examined in the questions, and after successfully answering them, he was sent outside to get ready.

During the short interlude, W Bro Eddie Wildman provided an enjoyable talk on the change to finances in the modern age. No more hiding money in a sock under the bed! However, a sock was presented on this occasion to the WM from the ladies night which took place last year, a donation of £480 to Festival 29.

Bro Edge was then readmitted and passed to the 2nd degree, expertly led around the Lodge room by W Bro Richard Smedley as Bro Parkinson was unable to attend.

May being the Humber Lodge founders night, the Festive Board saw W Bro Wildman take the lectern to provide a most enjoyable history of Freemasonry in Hull which was well received by the Brethren and visitors. Of which, Technical lodge made a successful claim on the Travelling Gavel, taking it back from Humber after only six days! The response from the visitors was given by the WM of Pelham Pillar lodge (Humber's daughter lodge) and everyone parted ways having certainly made an advancement in their daily Masonic knowledge!

[Pictured: W Bro Arash Vesali (WM Technical 5666) receiving the Travgav from W Bro Malcolm Forbes (WM H57). Not quite a tug-of-war.]

Matthew Barber, Junior Deacon.

 

Saturday 9th May 2026:

Lord Bolton Basics

by Eddie Wildman

I had the curious impression that the Rt Hon Lord Bolton himself (pictured left) was listening to the short lecture by Neil Armstrong (pictured right), and was nodding approvingly. The  Rt Worshipful Deputy Provincial Grand Master, consecrating Officer after whom the Lodge was named at its beginning in 1907 would certainly have approved that the Saturday meetings (at the outset many of its members were travelling representatives of the commercial and industrial interests in and without the city) were continuing to educate those Brethren new to the Craft. Lodge 3263 has a healthy percentage of Brethren wearing light blue rosettes, and indeed, this was brought up for discussion later that evening.

The WM, W Bro Colin Bird (pictured below) opened the Lodge smoothly. Numbers were low; there were fourteen present, and the usual visitor, W Bro Anthony Cadle stepped in as Inner Guard. ("It's Inner Tyler, actually," he told me afterwards, "I'm multitasking.")

Neil's illustrated talk did not go into detail (too often just lately I've sat through talks with turgid sidetracks which detracted from the main thrust of the topic. While this promotes the academicism of the speakers, such material is better suited to essays which can be read and digested at leisure; one can turn back the pages and reflect, which is not possible in a lecture.) He was not didactic, but pointed out that newcomers should not be afraid to ask other Brethren should there be anything about which they were unsure. I reflected that when I became a Mason forty years ago, it was difficult to find information, there was no Internet, no Solomon programme, and little help from senior members. Neil's encouraging words on the Masonic journey, on easing into performing ritual without stress, on informal get-togethers and on linking into the Grand Design of being happy and communicating happiness to others were well appreciated. The Brethren applauded spontaneously when he finished.

W Bro Alan Shand then stood to suggest that while regular Lodges of instruction had proved impracticable during the week, the younger Brethren might be interested in weekend gatherings - possibly towards an Open Night later in the year (where those below the dias could demonstrate their ability.) Fish and Chips or a Curry afterwards were suggested.

The younger Brethren have already impressed with their ritual skills - the Lodge is small and select enough that no Brother can sit on the sidelines for long - and I suspect that the idea may have germinated. My personal caveat is that while some of the well-established Brethren are keen to help, they should beware of interfering. The Lord Bolton banner carries the motto "Aymez Loyaulté" (Love Loyalty - there are various (mis)spellings since the creation of the crest in 1797) but loyalty involves support, trust and commitment including abstinence when necessary. A full explanation of the crest must wait until some future occasion.

The festive board (whereat the new toast list was introduced) concluded with the song "Happy to Meet Again" and the Brethren joined in the chorus with enthusiasm.

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

Saturday 9th May 2026 a.m:

Chapter Investiture

by Malcolm Forbes

It was an early start as I picked up Excellent Companion Eddie Wildman at 6.30 am for our journey to York racecourse. I needed to be present for a rehearsal at 8.0 am for the Craft Investiture in the afternoon.

Following the rehearsal I took the opportunity to have a PSA test which the Province had offered to attendees.

I took my seat on the Voltigeur Suite at 10.0 am alongside Excellent Companion Charles Alexander, a fellow Companion of Humber Chapter. Humber Chapter was also represented by MEZ Steve Hastings and Excellent Companion Barrie Jefferey at the Investiture.

The Investiture of Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Superintendent Mark Iveson commenced at 10.15 am. The Provincial Chapter was opened by Officers from Grand Chapter and presided over by Assistant Grand Master the Right Worshipful Most Excellent Companion Arthur Steven Varley.

The ceremony was conducted with military precision. Assisting the Grand Director of Ceremonies was the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Excellent Companion Jimmie Kerr, a Companion of De La Pole Chapter 1605.

In addition to the Investiture of Most Excellent Grand Superintendent Mark Iveson, Right Worshipful Most Excellent Companion Trevor Collinson was invested as Haggai and Right Worshipful Most Excellent Companion Nick Mitchell was invested as Joshua. Right Worshipful Most Excellent Companion Dr Hiten Thaker was also invested as Deputy Provincial Grand Superintendent.

MEGS Mark Iveson gave a short address in which he thanked everyone who had supported him and looked forward to building upon the close relationship between Craft and Chapter as exemplified by the Building Together initiative in a new era for Chapter Freemasonry.

Saturday 9th May 2026 p.m:

Craft Investiture

by Eddie Wildman

Having successfully survived Malcolm's assault on the A1079, I joined the Companions and Brethren at the Racecourse, Knavesmire Road in York and was delighted to see many old friends, including W Bro Bill Burnett (one of the UGLE pillars supporting the Humber Lodge) along with Charles Alexander, another Humber Past Master. The initial chaos at such events where Brethren are hurrying from hither to yon and confused chaps such as myself are wondering where to go is par for the course; I never fail to be surprised as it eventually becomes sorted and the Masonic motto Ordo ab Chao (order out of chaos) is realised, and the gathering somehow transforms into a formal ceremony. Malcolm Forbes (Humber WM) has dilated above on the morning Chapter ceremony.

I learned that while it appeared flawless there were last-minute changes and directions from UGLE which had modified events - but it had nonetheless been a sucessful ceremony - the ME Third Grand Principal ME Comp Arthur Steven Varley had installed E Comp Mark Iveson as the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent presiding over the Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings, who appointed the Second and Third Grand Principals and his Deputy. It had been a long morning, and we went to the Ebor Suite for the two course lunch, after which toasts were given and we were addressed by ME Companion Arthur Steven Varley (pictured left.) The Provincial Grand Master Designate W Bro Mark Iveson (pictured  below) responded to his toast with brief eloquence and the Tyler's Toast was submitted.

It was time to return and to put on our Craft regalia.

The address to the WM in a Craft Installation contains the instruction "Impress upon them [the Brethren] the dignity and high importance of Freemasonry" and the gravitas, decorum and solemnity demanded by the occasion was very evident. There were various processions (but not of the United Grand Lodge Officers - I was able to find a seat with a good view of the screens overseeing the proceedings without being sandwiched between enormous brethren in tailcoats) and was pleased to applaud the arrival of W Bro Chris Thomas, the assistant Grand Master in Charge and the Officers of the Provincil Grand Lodge of Yorkshire North and East Ridings.

The next processional was of the RW Assistant Grand Master Arthur Steven Varley and the visiting Officers of Grand Lodge. Right Worshipful Brother Varley addressed the assembled Brethren after appointing his Wardens and Chaplain, and inspected the Patent of Appointment, the essential and official documentation for the afternoon's proceedings.

W Bro Mark Iveson, the Provincial Grand Master Designate, entered with a Deputation formed by the Grand Director of Ceremonies and was introduced to the RW Assistant Grand Master, who asked if W Bro Iveson could conscientiously accept the duties of the office of Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master. This being confirmed, a prayer was given by the acting Grand Chaplain, W Bro Iveson recited his obligation, and was invested and installed as RWPGM.

The Grand Lodge Officers relinquished their places as Wardens, and the Grand Director of Ceremonies proclaimed W Bro Iveson as Provincial Grand Master of the Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings. All the Brethren saluted him.

Right Worshipful Bro Iveson appointed his Deputy and Assistants and they were likewise saluted. (The toast list for the Craft will now read, for toast 4: The Provincial Grand Master, Worshipful Brother Mark Iveson, JGD,; and for toast 5: The Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Worshipful Brother John Anthony Wilkinson; the Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, Worshipful Brother Martin Eggermont, PSGD, Worshipful Brother Harold Leslie Elliot, Worshipful Brother Simon John Simpson, Worshipful Brother Karl Alwyn Ward PAGDC and the rest of the Provincial Grand Officers, Present and Past.)

It was a display of pomp and ceremony. The dignity and high importance of the institution was upheld. Other essential tasks were performed including the presentation of the bylaws of the Province under which guidance our rulers are constrained to act. The RWPGM addressed the Brethren before Provincial Grand Lodge was closed, the national anthem was sung and all retired in due form. The new PGM, with his Deputy and Assistants shook hands with their Brethren and visitors. It was good to see so many smiling faces.

I have no doubt there will be comments and photographs aplenty on the Provincial website - I exhort the Brethren to look there for the official account, together with the addresses from the MEGS and the RWPGM.

As Malcolm drove us into Hull (he dropped me at Beverley Road for the meeting of Lord Bolton Lodge - see above) I asked him if he'd write a report of the Provincial Grand Chapter meeting that morning. "I'll do a write-up about the afternoon." "Okay," he said, carefully overtaking a milk-float, "but you might have to wait. I'm umpiring a cricket match tomorrow." But in fact, his report arrived early on Sunday morning. I admire his energy!

 

 

Eddie Wildman, spectator.

 

 

 

Thursday 7th May 2026:

Constitutional Lodge 294 Initiation

by Eddie Wildman

The Lodge room was full, though I was the only visitor. Constitutional Lodge was out in force to welcome a new member - and I understand from the propositions at the end of the meeting that there are more to come. I rarely get the opportunity to visit this Lodge in Beverley; its meetings coincide with Thesaurus Lodge in Hull, but I had been booked well in advance by the Worshipful Master, W Bro Martyn Dickinson Hennessy PPJGW, who is approaching his fiftieth year in Freemasonry.

The WM opened the Lodge fluently and the opening ode was sung with enthusiasm; while rich in members, the Lodge has no organist. The Secretary, W Bro Gavin Collinson, read a portion of the Ancient Charge and the DC, Bro John Chrystal led the salutes to UGLE and the Province of Yorkshire N&ER. The minutes having met with the Lodge's approval ("No amendments, Worshipful Master,") were signed, and the WM moved swiftly on to the main business of the evening, the initiation of Mr Stephen Waters.

From the Inner Guard's commanding "Enter!" and a raised sword by Bro Ian Denston, it was evident that this ceremony was going to be impressive. Here the Brethren scorn to revert to using their books, and the very occasional prompt served only to emphasise that the Brethren were working entirely from memory. The Lodge Preceptor, W Bro Keith Charlesworth (who gave me a lift to the Lodge - thanks, Keith!) had little to do - which indicates careful rehearsal - I was well impressed.

The Masonic workings are a series of dramas, the better to fix in the Candidate's mind his journey through the Craft, and later the Chapter. This is best done as demonstrated by the Constitutional Brethren this evening, not by extravagant sweeping gestures and arm-waving, but by eye contact and clear diction, always engaging with the Candidate, so he was involved in the gradually unfolding story. The Junior Deacon, W Bro Martin Rowland, conducted him round the Lodge room unhurriedly; it was evident that Mr Waters was enjoying the experience. The Worshipful Master obligated him as the Brethren stood to order with military precision.

The Constitutional Lodge 294 is one of the oldest Lodges in the area, established permanently in Beverley by those members of Militia Lodges which subsequently moved elsewhere. It dates from 1793, and some of the individual quirks in the ritual possibly have their origins from the early days.

W Bro Hennessey explained the greater and lesser lights in Freemasonry, and Brother Waters was informed of the dangers he had escaped by Bro Andrew Jennings, stand-in Tyler. The recognition signs were presented by W Bro Andrew B Nicholson. The address at the northeast corner was delivered by Bro Noel Marshall, and the symbolism of the tools and the rough ashlar by W Bro Phil Rushworth, the Candidate's proposer.

Bro Ian Smith pointed out the Warrant, the authority by which we act, and presented the bylaws and Book of Constitutions. The Senior Warden, W Bro Mike Noble gave a stunning presentation of the Ancient Charge. I gave greetings (supported by W Bro Malcolm Forbes, who, as a member, should not instigate greetings from elsewhere) from the premier Lodge in the Province.

Tereza's steak pie was a delight.

The toasts following the festive board moved along swiftly; W Bro Rushworth proposed that to the Candidate (with the "Masonic Chain" ritual interpolated into the Entered Apprentice Song by the SW) and Bro Waters responded, saying he was "looking forward to more cameraderie like this." The meeting ended in Brotherly Love and Harmony, and I was given a lift home by W Bro Malcolm Forbes (thanks, Malcolm!) We spoke about the Investiture in York at the weekend; Grand Lodge would be in charge, and we were looking forward to it.

Sincere thanks to all the Brethren at Constitutional Lodge for a cracking night - a memorable experience, and thank you, Worshipful Master, for inviting me along!

 Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

Wednesday 6th May 2026:

Travgav Contest

by Eddie Wildman

It was heartening to see so many visitors to the Kingston Lodge 1010, whatever their motives, as was remarked at the festive board. In an age where indifference and apathy proliferate, the visitors (who outnumbered the indigenous Brethren, I think) added to the ambience of the evening, not only in the ceremony upstairs, an enactment of an initiation, but at the festive board below.

The travelling gavel was an initiative of W Bro Terry Fisher; you can find out about it on the Travelling Gavel page and in the Travelling Gavel Archives.

Kingston Lodge had decided on an enactment of a first degree ceremony. There were a number of stand-ins, but those delivering ritual did very well, in particular W Bro Michael Price with the Working Tools and W Bro Simon Ramshaw with the Ancient Charge. Jake McLeavy was conducted round the Lodge with his brother Mike as JD and SD Mike Price.

Reports were brief, AOB was dealt with promptly, and the Brethren retired downstairs. There was a brief hiatus as the Senior Warden, W Bro Gary Crossland had a high spike in his blood pressure due to some new medication and went to A&E instead of the festive board, but the Secretary, Neil Armstrong, reported the following morning that he received the appropriate care and is on the mend. Meanwhile, Mike Price stood in as SW during Luke Pyrah's tasty meat pie. We wish W Bro Crossland well - he has been under a lot of pressure lately.

Having the Humber vocalists present, led by W Bro Smedley, the singing after the meal was particularly fine with the Visitors Song and "Happy to Meet Again".

The gavel was passed over to the Humber Master, and the Humber Brethren gathered together for a photograph - Bro Parkinson somehow escaped the camera. W Bro Alan Todd won a raffle prize (£175  was raised for Charity) a bag of small bottles of beer, which he clutched possessively during the photoshoot. Pictured above L to R: Bro Matt Barber, W Bros Alan Todd, Richard Smedley, Malcolm Forbes, Charles Alexander, Bro Craig Fish and W Bro Eddie Wildman. The other photograph is of the two WMs exchanging the boxed gavel.

Thanks to the Kingston Lodge for putting on such an enjoyable occasion.

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

 

Saturday 2nd May 2026:

Cornerstone Lodge 10051

report by Eddie Wildman

It is rare for a Representative to give last minute apologies, and on this occasion, while couched in the customary bland terms of official documentise, to learn that the Grand Officer concerned was suffering from a cat bite caused me to wonder about the wisdom of keeping a pair of Bengal tigers at the end of one's Bridlington garden. However, other UGLE Officers were present, and W Bro Richard Smedley kindly agreed to take the place of the Representative, which of course, he managed with his customary aplomb.

International circumstances had necessitated a change of date for this Installation meeting; now flights from the Eastern Archipelago were restored, the Master Elect,  W Bro Darren Desker was able to attend. For me, it was the third daytime meeting within the space of a week. It was a bank holiday weekend, and some Brethren had previously booked holidays, including would-be visitors. Also Hull City was playing at the MKM Stadium gaining a place in the Championship play-off, and some of the Cornerstone team were already booked for that - and my congratulations to the worthy Brother who turned up to do his duty at the start of the preceedings and discretely slipped away to watch Hull City Tigers vanquish the Norwich City Canaries. (Indeed, quiet smiles appeared during the festive board as the results came online.) But numbers were reduced.

The Lodge Room was censed before the Lodge was opened; the thurible, in the capable hands of W Bro Waddington following the shape of the Magen David which amongst other things represents the union of opposites such as heaven and earth, the spiritual and the material whilst recalling the connection with the Craft and the Chapter. During the censing, I quietly played the theme from Brahms' first symphony; it was a time for contemplation.

The WM, W Bro Barry Longstaff opened the Lodge, and W Bro Chris Patrick, ProvAGDC reported that W Bro Richard Smedley, representing  the Assistant Provincial Grand Officer in Charge, requested admission. An escort was formed, and W Bro Smedley was saluted. The Secretary read a portion of the Regius Manuscript, which predates and forms the basis of the Ancient Charge, the minutes were carried.

The following ceremony was somewhat truncated; all present were Master Masons and W Bro Desker had already been Worshipful Master in his native Singapore. He was presented by the DC, W Bro James Ashby-Kelly; no obligation was necessary. W Bro Longstaff raised the Lodge to the 3° and declared all offices vacant. Those below the rank of an Installed Master retired and the Lodge was again raised.

W Bro Desker was obligated as Master and saluted the VSL, before the Brethren gathered round for the traditional explanation of the signs and the investiture. The new WM was installed, lowered the Lodge directly to the 1° and, on their admission, invested his officers promptly. The address to the WM was delivered by me; the Secretary W Bro Cawkwell gave that to the Wardens and W Bro Longstaff addressed the Brethren. (Pictured: WM Darren Desker and IPM Bazza Longstaff.)

The Masonic Anthem was beautifully sung by W Bro Smedley.

Next there was a talk, the rubric of of which illustrate in the summons W Bro Desker's thoroughness in covering all aspects of the topic. As the promulgation of understanding as opposed to pedagogy is one of the distinctive features of L100051 it served not only as instruction but a mission statement: '"To instruct the Brethren in Freemasonry." The talk will outline the basis for education and instruction in Freemasonry, explore the historical and ceremonial links between Freemasonry and education, seeking to determine if Masonic education is an ancient landmark of the Order, and exploring how research can promote and encourage greater engagement in Masonic education.' He spoke for half an hour.

Reports were given, and the WM presented W Bro Smedley with a Masonic Prostrate Cancer Awareness Badge, reminding the Brethren that there would be testing available at the Investiture in York  next week. Greetings were given and the Lodge was closed. Rather than leaving immediately, the Brethren gathered for a group photograph before retiring to the festive board.

Masonic Chef Luke Pyrah's smoked fishcakes with creamed leeks were a delight. I had the salmon rather than the pork in peppercorn sauce option, and steadfastly ate only half of the dessert (strawberry and sherry trifle): having observed the Masonic bellies in Grand Lodge earlier in the week I decided abstention was the better part of adiposity. The WM and the Rep, both being born in Singapore, had found common ground, we discovered at the fifth toast. W Bro Richard Smedley sang the Master's song, and led the singing in the song to the visitors and the Parting Toast.

It was nice to leave a meeting in sunshine (and to relax in the garden afterwards) - thanks to W Bro Alex McCallum for the lift home!

The next Cornerstone Lodge meeting is in a fortnight's time, in Whitby.

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

 

 

 

Wednesday 29th April 2026:

Visit to Grand Lodge in London

by Eddie Wildman

Danny Betts joined me at Hull Paragon. “I’m supposed to be on coach L,” he told me, “but the carriages only go up to H.” As we spoke another huge train pulled in gently on the same line. I was fascinated by the connection – I took a photograph on the return journey – considering the hundreds of tons on the track, it didn’t look terribly convincing.

I was in coach D and didn’t catch sight of Danny again until the Grand Investiture, when he was one of the dignified Grand Stewards, efficiently escorting honourees to the dais and back. I felt a frisson of pride seeing him there in his red regalia, one of the essentials cogs in the proceedings.

I was pleased to meet W Bro Mark Iveson PAGDC, Junior Grand Deacon and of course our RWPGM to be, before the meeting began. He was part of the initial procession for the entry of HRH the Duke of Kent, Worshipful Grand Master, who at ninety  looked a little frail but still presided over the proceedings with enormous dignity. Those folk we regularly toast in absentia at our festive boards were also there for all to see.

Whilst name dropping, I should mention our newly retired RWPGM, Dr David Chambers, and I was delighted to receive a cheery wave from the previous RWPGM, Jeffrey Gillyon when I’d received my promotion to Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies.

Other Yorkshire North and East Riding Brethren on show were Paul Hartley Baker, Antony Vincent Stevenson and Trevor Ions. I looked around for familiar faces, but as my seat was behind that of one of the tallest (and widest) brethren in the hall I failed to see anyone else I knew.

However, whilst having a coffee beforehand, I met W Bro Chris Bird, an old friend from Minerva Lodge 250 who was being appointed as a Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies for the Masonic Province of Devonshire, and we exchanged gossip. “Do remember me to all the lads at Dagger Lane,” he said. “Of course I will,” I said. (I included his picture in the Minerva report.)

I’ll not describe the occasion; dignity, pomp and ceremony are very much part of our culture, and the prevailing stateliness was impressive. I tend to shrink a little in such august company (and I fear I’m something of a magnet for those who like to boast and tell me all their Masonic achievements - I’m not really interested and fail to take them as seriously as they take themselves. I realised on my way to the changing room that I’d forgotten my gloves and bought a pair from the Masonic shop. I am becoming increasingly forgetful. Similarly, I lost my way to the robing room afterwards and wandered over marble floors for nearly half an hour before finding my case and shopping bag.

I knew I had to take a number 91 bus to return to Kings Cross. Stupidly, I caught one going the other way and realised my mistake by the time I reached Charing Cross. London rush hour is noisy and scary. I decided that it would be better to take the Tube (change at Euston) and managed to find the two kissing Hull trains (quick photo) and take my seat. The journey north was uneventful, but the refreshment cart included small bottles of Prosecco, which were very welcome.

It had been an interesting day out.

 

Eddie Wildman, PAGDC

 

 

 Monday 27th April 2026:

Sapere Aude

report by Eddie Wildman

The Latin motto of the University Scheme Lodge, Juno 10001, Sapere Aude was originally recorded by the Roman poet Horace in his Epistles, some two decades before the birth of Christ. In context the phrase is taken to be a call to embrace reason and independent thinking thus leading to enlightenment; an appropriate slogan for a Lodge promoting its academic connections. The light of learning burns on the Lodge logo.

There was some necessary shuffling round of officers; the thesauric Secretary, arthoplastically immobolised was unable to attend, others had Provincial responsibilities elsewhere and some key officers took substitute roles.This could have reduced the DC, W Bro Barrie Jeffery to tears, suddenly discovering his assistant Kieran Newton was now Junior Warden, the Chaplain, W Bro Richard East was now Inner Guard while W Bro Adrian Haywood serenely took over on the dais. I wondered at his equanimity, which he assured me was a false front. "It is a nightmare for rehearsals," he confided. "It's a fifty-five mile round trip for me, plus the Bridge tolls; at one rehearsal two people turned up, at the next there were three." "Sic transit gloria mundi," I murmured, sympathetically. "Who's Gloria?" he said. Sadly, this lack of commitment is endemic in many Lodges. But those taking part had, for the most part, worked very hard and performed their allotted tasks with acumen.

It was good to see this new Lodge (concecrated in 2021) operating in the ancient building, which has appropriate Latin texts on the north, east and south walls for the Brethren to reflect and moralise upon. I have no doubt they presented little challenge to the principal officers, who continued to establish the Lodge tradition by wearing academic gowns with their regalia. The ceremony was an initiation: Mr Bryan Burton was ballotted for and accepted and initiated on the same evening, and as the visitors remarked, he couldn't have hoped for a better ceremony. The WM W Bro Terry Scott obligated the Candidate according to ancient custom (and establishing thereby a link with the Parliamentary Act of 1799; the ritual words have meaning, and it was obvious that Brother Burton had taken them in.) The (acting) Senior Deacon Bro David Emerton, the Candidate's proposer, explained the Lesser Lights, and the signs were brilliantly delivered by W Bro Russ Thorpe of Wiberforce Lodge 2134. Bro Burton was invested by the Senior Warden, Bro James Wright and the address at the northeast corner was given by W Bro Barrie Jeffery. The Warrant was explained by Bro Kieran Newton and the Tyler, W Bro Alistair Heaton was called from his duty as Tyler to point out the symbolic application of the Working Tools in the 1°. W Bro Adrian Haywood delivered the charge.

Rather than miss the closing of the Lodge by retiring to change into his usual attire, Bro Burton was invited to stay - a practice of which I heartily approve. Brief reports were given, most having already been distributed electronically, and the WM closed the Lodge.

Everyone invited themselves back for a photograph ("הֲבֵל הֲבָלִים הַכֹּל הָבֶל" as Solomon remarked) and as they hurried downstairs where Julie the chef had organised a Chinese meal (米饭、薯条和面条).   I managed to take a snapshot of Bro Bryan Burton now in his suit and pristine Entered Apprentice apron, the Worshipful Master, his academic gown worn over his Master's collar, and W Bro Wayne Walker (Junior Deacon) who had conducted the Candidate through the ceremony.(See photo.) All three visit the same hairdresser.

Bro Emerton proposed a toast to Bro Burton, citing him as a thoroughly good chap and looking forward to his future  with AMILL (the Association of the Medical, University and Legal Lodges.) Bro Burton responded briefly and modestly. In response to the toast to the visitors, W Bro Chris Young-Woolley of the Ancholme Lodge 1282 in the Province of Lincolnshire commented very favourably on the ceremony in the Yellowbelly manner, naming and complimenting the performers. After this, W Bro Steele explained the silverware on the table: the Juno Lodge is currently a holder of the university scheme Loving Cup, a national travelling feature. (Other University Lodges will doubtless contend to take it elsewhere.) His possibly spurious story regarding the revelries in which the passing of such a prize to be supped by everyone, thus offering opportunities for murder and poisoning, made me glad that the tradition no longer applies. It is supposed to represent mutual protection.

Virgil, to return to another Roman poet, remarked Cantantes licet usque, minus via laedit (Let us go singing as far as we go: the road will be less tedious.) The vocal contributions at the festive board were testimony to this; not only the choruses of the Entered Apprentice Song, but the Visitor's Song and that to the Absent Brethren. At the end of the proceedings, well managed by the DC, the Brethren joined hands and raised the roof with Auld Lang Syne, applauding themselves spontaneously at the finish. And when the Brethren leave a meeting with smiles on their faces, that's sign of success. I travelled with W Bro Thorpe, who kindly gave me a lift home (thanks, Russ) and hoped we'd meet up again on the circuit soon. "Are you going to write a blog about the meeting?" he asked. "There's not a lot to say," I told him - "but I'll put in a quotation or two."

Vale et gratias tibi pro omnibus piscibus.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

 

Friday 24th April 2026:

Double Whammy - Wyke Millennium Chapter and Ridings Tablers' Craft.

Reports by Eddie Wildman

"What are days for?" Philip Larkin's lovely poem came to mind on a morning which had no special qualities  other than that of simply being. The hermit of Hull sometimes turns a phrase round so that ordinary things become bright and meaningful. Today, the 24th of the month, modestly sandwiched between St George's Day and St Mark's Day, had no special birthdays I knew of, no national holiday or special appellations (I have no interest in spurious suggestions such as "hair ball awareness day") but it was, nonetheless, a day that the Lord had made. "Let us rejoice and be glad in it," I said, quoting a somewhat earlier poet.

E Comp David Green, my DC for the midday meeting of the Wyke Millennium Chapter 9696, picked me up in good time and we drove through sunshine to the Masonic Hall at Beverley Road, discussing popular issues among the aged (how our bodies are falling apart, and having to get up to go to the loo in the middle of the night.) "But it's a lovely, day," I said, dismissing the aches and pains which have now become commonplace.

   "Yes," agreed David, "but at four o' clock this morning, it was thick fog."

   "What were doing up at four o' clock in the morning?" I asked.

  "Not me, my wife Linda," he said, selecting the correct lane for the Beverley Road turn-off. "She had to go to the loo."

   "David, " I said, surprised, "I assumed you had a toilet in the house. You didn't make her walk through the fields in Willerby, did you?"

The Wyke Millennium Chapter is small and meets on a daytime, not during the evening. This was the Installation, where the incumbent Z, E Comp Malcolm Forbes, was retaining the post for another year, but the J, E Comp Barry Andrew Longstaff was moving up to the Office of Haggai. The current H was unavailable, but had elected in the spirit of recycling to revert to the J position in the triumvirate. Other offices were generally recycled and the ceremony was managed with humour and the comfortable understanding that pertains when people have worked together frequently. 

The festive board was one of Luke's magnificent buffets and well appreciated, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, though I am not used to eating in the middle of the day. Barry Longstaff, next to me, was eyeing up the dessert selection, having already sampled the strawberry cheesecake. "Go on," I said, "have another one. You're young, slim and fit, and fruit is good for you. Zero calories."

It was my privilege as the Representative of the Second Provincial Grand Principal in Charge, Excellent Companion Richard John Smedley, with whom I'd been conversing that very morning, to respond on behalf of the toast to the Provincial Officers. I spoke of the name of Chapter 9696, after the historic trading settlement  and maritime interface connecting sea transportation and land logistics in the twelfth century, and the inevitability of change (it's renaming by Edward I in 1299 as Kings' Town upon Hull; the awarding of city status by Queen Victoria etc.) which in the fullness of time can be remembered and applauded. Wyke Chapter has much to applaud, and much to offer in terms of recruitment and public awareness, not only because of its positioning in the city, but from the convenience of its lunchtime meetings.

The Companions took their leave of each other and left with smiles on their faces - always a sign of a succesful meeting. "What are days for?" I thought - "They are to be happy in; where can we live
but days?"

The sunshine continued in the afternoon, and after returning home (thank, Dave!) to exchange my Capter regalia for a Craft pinny, I took the bus to Beverley. This is not as comfortable as the train journey, and takes longer, but I was in no hurry, pondering the official report I was required to give on the meeting above. I enjoyed a stroll round the Minster Town.

The Ridings Tablers' Lodge 9586's 226th regular meeting was an enactment of the 2°, with explanatory interpolations from Neville Barker-Cryer's analytical explanation. The Brethren benefited greatly, I'm sure, though I confess I struggled with hearing the quieter voices at times. There followed reports, with detailed responses from the Treasurer, W Bro M J Green, advising on the holding and distributions of funds in accordance with Masonic Practice and the complexities of financial law. This was in the light of advice from the Province following Grand Lodge's rulings regarding inconsistencies. I had been unaware of the difference between a cash book and a bank account, and am glad there are brighter minds than mine to take care of such things.

However, I think all the Brethren paid cash for their meals this evening; which was Fish and Chips (and mushy peas) and the Tyler and Charity Steward, W Bro Michael Coates, went to collect them. The Brethren ate in the bar area in a convivial gathering; once again the atmosphere was informal and friendly. The WM, W Bro Nicholas Barton submitted the loyal toast and that to the Grand Master. W Bro Coates gave me a lift back - it was not a late night (thanks, Michael) and the evening was still balmy and warm.

Today, I thought to myself as eased off my shoes with a sense of relief, I'd been blessed with two meetings, quite different in many ways, but having in common a fraternal coherence. King David waxed poetic (and, in my view provided in Psalm 133 a link between the Old and New Testaments in his recognition of the unity of man) around the tenth century before Christ with the words: "Behold how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." This seemed a worthy thought on which to retire.

Eddie Wildman

 

Thursday 23rd April 2026:

Many Happy Returns William

St Michael Business Night at Dagger Lane

report by Eddie Wildman

Today, 23rd April, is the birthday of Shakespeare and the feast day of St George. The latter has been celebrated already (see below) by the Lodge of St Michael this year but William Shakespeare generally receives less attention. That he himself was a freemason is in my opinion without doubt, but it is often disputed, for the playwright died in 1616 and modern freemasonry is officially regarded as beginning in 1717, even though it claims to date back to King Athelstan (and even earlier according to some authorities.) For me, lines such as "What! My old Worshipful Master! in The Taming of the Screw, and "Is there no young squarer that will make a voyage with him?" in Much Ado about Nothing are persuasive. There is compelling evidence of Rosicrucianism, from which many esoteric societies derive. There are deliberate hints (the three capital ells in Love's Labour's Lost represent three squares in what is essentially a masonic allegory) fascinating cyphers (which were popular among the cognescenti in Elizabethan times) and evidence of Masonic inclusion, possibly for the purpose of impressing a patron, etc. Even those without my passion for the Bard will be aware of the challenging Masonic take-off with the drunken porter in Macbeth: "Knock, knock, knock - who's there?" building up the tension of the plot as Duncan's sons arrive to collect their father only to discover that he has been murdered.

Following a short but well-constructed eulogy on the late W Bro John Hague by W Bro Peter Wright there was a business meeting of the Lodge of St Michael; the future Master established with the election of W Bro Steve Longthorp. The Brethren settled down to discussion of issues impacting on the ensuing year; rental, membership fees, and the upholding of standards by placing the St Michael banner behind the WM's Chair. A number of Brethren, having nothing to say, insisted on giving us evidence to that effect. Meanwhile I thought about Shakespeare as a story-teller and mentally composed the paragraph above while observing themes in common between the Lodge members and Shakespearian characters. As a tribute to St George, I played a selection of patriotic songs at appropriate places in the opening and closing.

W Brother David Whittle closed the Lodge in due form and the Brethren retired to the festive board. I collected the music and props I'd left behind at the celebrations on Saturday trying to find an apposite quotation to end this article. Hamlet is the play I perhaps know best, and Polonius's words seemed to resonate as I climbed onto the bus: "If circumstances lead me, I will find where truth is hid, though it were hid indeed within the Centre."

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

Saturday 18th April 2026:

 

Lodge of St Michael 7833 St George's Day Celebration

by Malcolm Forbes

A rollicking evening!

Dagger Lane Masonic Hall was bedecked in red and white bunting as it opened its doors to celebrate St George's Day. Some of the sixty plus guests wore matching red and white bow ties, the tables were decorated in red and white tablecloths and a large mock-up of a dragon was the centrepiece of the bar/dining area. Congratulations to W Bro David Whittall, the Worshipful Master of the Lodge of St Michael, who organised the evening's celebrations.

Amongst the guests there was a mix of members from local Lodges and their wives, partners and friends. Humber Lodge was represented by W Bro Eddie Wildman, W Bro Trevor Whitfield, W Bro Terry Fisher (who was on duty behind the bar), Bro Matt Barber and of course, myself.

When guests took their seats for dinner at 7.30 pm, I was privileged to be sat in the company of W Bro Wildman, one of his music pupils, Matej Haas (pictured), Matej's parents, Bro Matt Barber, Grand Lodge Officer W Bro Mike Graham, a member of the Lodge of St Andrew 4683, and his wife Liz.

Apart from their company W Bro Wildman and Matej were to provide musical interludes on the piano throughout the evening. Bro Barber provided vocal accompaniment after the meal as he sang alongside Eddie and Matej in a rousing rendition of patriotic songs.

The layout of the tables along with the table decorations of the flag of St George and the general patriotic theme of the evening conjured up images of post-2nd World War street parties, the Festival of Britain in 1951 and street parties to celebrate Royal Anniversaries.

The catering complemented the atmosphere. Chef Julie Davies and her staff provided a mouthwatering four course meal. Tomato soup, roast beef, apple pie and custard or fruit salad, and cheese and biscuits satisfied every palate.

Following the meal Eddie, Matej and Matt took centre stage. Bro John Burton provided a hilarious fictitious history of St George in the person of Albert George Snodgrass, a charioteer from Yorkshire who was canonised by the Romans Catholic Church (as John's story would have it instead of the St George of legendary status).

A chorus of patriotic songs led animatedly by Eddie, including Rule Britannia, Land of Hope and Glory, It's A Long Way To Tipperary, We're Going To Hang Out Our Washing On The Siegfried Line, Who Do You Think You're Kidding Mr Hitler, and A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square (Matthew's solo) were enjoyed by all. W Bro Terry Lynn, a member of the Lodge of St Michael, also supported the musical extravaganza by leading the vocal chorus along with Matt in his British Army uniform with We'll Meet Again. W Bro Whittall provided an amusing comedy sketch from behind a Daggards screen.

The evening raised money for charity through three separate raffles and an auction.

Time called for those parked in Zebedee's car park before it shut at 11.0 pm. including the musicians!

It had been a thoroughly uplifting evening with much credit to the Lodge of St Michael for their hard work and Eddie, Matej and Matt for their musical contributions.

Malcolm Forbes

 

 

Tuesday 14th April 2026:

World Quantum Day

Quantum Physics is about the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science at the level of elementary particles and the forces that constitute our universe, from the fabric of spacetime to the GPS on our phones.

The increasing use of technology in promoting Freemasonry and further understanding of the Craft may yet lead to a higher appreciation, though the amount of Masonic emails I receive is sometimes frustrating. Our understanding is growing.

As human beings we are governed by the classical laws of Nature and Science - and indeed exhorted to make a daily advancement therein. I confess I am remiss in this, but as today is World Quantum Day I have made a special effort.  I don't really have a satisfactory awareness of the wave-particle duality (the first steps in this were perhaps anticipated by Bro Isaac Newton in the early eighteenth century) but I can begin to grasp that the world around us, in terms of Quantum Physics, is neither fixed nor solid until it is observed - and the act of observation changes what we call "reality".

I contemplated that as Masons, we might question our basic nature until our essential energy is properly comprehended. However, I have no intention here of plumbing spiritual depths, but simply maintain that Freemasonry, when properly appreciated, can be much more than a night out and a meal with the lads.

Eddie Wildman

 

 

 

Monday 13th April 2026:

St John of Beverley Preceptory

report by Eddie Wildman

Eminent Knight Malcolm Forbes, like me, was a visitor to a Knights Templar meeting at the Masonic Hall on Beverley Road, and we sat together. He and I (as our frequent readers will observe) are regular contributors to this website, and it was in this regard Malcolm observed that we rarely include reports on anything other than Craft or Chapter meetings. "I'm not surprised," I said, "You are a member of so many different orders, you'd be writing all the time. The Order of Athelstan, the Order of the Secret Monitor, the Secret Monitor, Mark Master Masons, the Order of the Missing Sock . . ." He interrupted me. "I'm not a member of the Order of the Missing Sock," he said. "I've never heard of it. How do I join?" I sighed. "I'm making it up, Malcolm," I told him. "But you do belong to some esoteric Masonic organisations."

We continued as the St John of Beverley Knights sorted out who was doing what - they were short-handed on this occasion, and Malcolm and I half-expected to be asked to stand in as substitutes. Fortunately this didn't happen.  "However, you're right," Malcolm continued, adjusting his gauntlets, "people do seem to ask more about the Knights Templar than the other degrees." I nodded encouragingly. "Perhaps it's the image of the cloaks and the swords, maybe it's the historical drama of the crusades, but there's a sort of romantic perception of the order." I smiled. "Malcolm," I said, "you're becoming poetic. I can almost imagine you climbing onto your horse and riding off into the sunset at the end of the meeting." He shook his head. "Not me," he said. "Besides, the Templar logo has two knights sharing a horse. And that's the sort of thing you could put on the website," he said, "but don't tell them why."

The meeting began; it was a brief one as the Eminent Preceptor, Peter Robson (the boss for the year) was proclaimed as Preceptor for 2026-2027, the Treasurer was elected and other Officers invested and appointed. "If I write a report," I said to Malcolm as alms were collected, "I'll keep it to a minimum." "Okay," he answered. "You always complain I say too much anyway." "I'm not going to argue with you, Malcolm," I said. "Not when you're carrying a sword."

I didn't stay for the festive board, leaving, in fact, before the sun had gone down. I went home smiling to myself about the Order of the Missing Sock. "L’Ordre Maçonnique de la Chaussette Manquante," I mused. "It sounds better in French."

Eddie Wildman

 

 

Saturday 11th April 2026:

One small step for a man . . .

report by Eddie Wildman

The Orion capsule, Integrity, touched down succesfully in the Pacific this morning, bringing to an end another chapter in the history of manned space flight following the ten-day voyage of Artemis II round the far side of the moon, the furthest that humankind has journeyed from Earth (over 250.000 miles).

Possibly half of the Brethren at the Lord Bolton Lodge are of an age to recall the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969, when Neil Armstrong stepped onto the lunar surface: "One small step for a man; one giant leap for mankind" and I wondered at the achievements and advantages the world has enjoyed since that event.

There's much we haven't learned - parts of our planet are still besieged by war, but this in no way diminishes the achievement of the Artemis II voyage, which itself reminded me of the Apollo 17 photograph in 1972, the "Blue Marble" shot of Earth, which still manages to place us and our world in a wider perspective.

In the Lord Bolton Lodge 3263 this evening, another significant step was taken, quietly and without the international publicity and media involvement which accompanies the world's exploration of space. This step was taken by Brother Christian Lewis. It too has profound implications, and quiet benefits, for the third degree is the completion of the Craft voyage and leads on to the Chapter. The Worshipful Master, W Bro Colin Bird, had opened the Lodge with enviable authority and the Brethren responded to his lead. There were a number of absences and W Bro Alan Shand reorganised the Brethren to fill the offices. Thus W Bro Neil Armstrong, Lodge Provincial Support Officer and no relation to his American namesake, stood in as Secretary while W Bro Martin Tomkins stood in as Tyler.  There were three Entered Apprentices present, one of whom was a visitor from  the Old Hymerian Lodge, who left temporarily so that the Lodge could move into the 2°.

Bro Lewis was examined in the Q&As leading to the 3° and entrusted with the necessary information to allow him entry when the Lodge moved to a higher degree before retiring for preparation.

I have previously remarked that I don't approve of spoilers in this sort of blog, but Neil Armstrong sent me a list reminding me that in addition to the substitutions I'd mentioned, W Bro Alan Shand stood in as DC. He communicated the secrets of the degree to Bro Lewis on his return, along with the exhortation; the charge was delivered by W Bro Andrew Hoggard. I enjoyed giving the historical oration in addition to the working tools of the degree and explaining the tracing board. Mention should be made of the obligation, given by the Master. W Bro Bird; a flawless performance.

Readers wondering about what happens in the third degree may regard it as the dark side of the moon - perhaps all will be revealed in the fullness of time as the latter was to the intrepid astronauts during their journey into the unknown. I took a photograph of Bro Lewis and W Bro Bird staring resolutely into the future before they left the Lodge room.

If Neil Armstrong had been writing this article (I mean the Lodge Provincial Support Officer, who regularly contributes to various Masonic blogs and is the editor for the Kingston1010 website) he would doubtless have seized the opportunity to point out parallels between the Artemis Exploration and the Masonic journey undertaken by Bro Lewis this evening; not only the essential "first step" that begins a journey, but the extensive preparation preceding that first step. Masonically it involves the learning of the answers to questions (which implies a mental readiness, later affirmed.) But in the outside world, the preparation extends beyond one person (the crew) - it is the coming together of combined efforts by many. In both instances lessons become internalised: there were six tense minutes when the returning capsule and home base were incommunicado, minutes when the crew could do nothing but trust. (There is a third degree parallel, but I don't do spoilers.) However, I am more an operative than speculative writer, so I leave the philosophical implications to Neil. But it interesting that both events were on the same day. Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, tells us "We do not exist by coincidence." What do you think?

The festive board followed an Indian theme, a flavoursome experience. There were visitors from Humber 57 (Malcolm Forbes and I; we also gave greetings from Andrew Marvell 5642) along with visitors from Old Hymerian 6885 and Holderness 3563; Malcolm responded learnedly and with sincerity.

The WM brought the evening to an end following the raffle, which had raised £100 for Charity, giving the parting toast "Happy have we met." I reflected as I drained my tankard, that it was not just a happy meeting, but a happy return to the Lodge, just as the Integrity had happily returned to Earth earlier in the day. And perhaps one day in the future - maybe when we're establishing settlements on the moon - Bro Lewis will say to some of the younger Brethren "I was raised to the degree of a Master Mason on the day the Artemis Astronauts hurtled through seventy miles of atmosphere to splash down safely in the sea." Not many Brethren will be able to match that! Well done, Lord Bolton Lodge.

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

 

Friday 10th April 2026:

The Gentle Art of Conversing: de la Pole Lodge 1605

report by Eddie Wildman

William de la Pole, after whom the Lodge is named, was a very wealthy wool merchant in Hull. He became a royal moneylender (to Edward II) and his financial skills were such that he was described at the end of the fourteenth century as nulli Angligenae mercatori postea secundus fuit - or "English merchant second to none." In addition his political skills were enormous; de la Pole became the first Mayor of Hull and represented the town in Parliament. He is said to buried in Hull Minster (then the Holy Trinity Church.) His descendants retained his capacity for persuasive speaking during the troubled years that followed, until his great grandson Michael became unpopular and he fell foul of the king, (Richard II). The family fortunes have risen and fallen dramatically through the reigns of several monarchs. The surname derives, in all likelihood, from the word "pool" - meaning someone who lived near a pool or lake.

It is not likely that de la Pole's conversational skills were the reason for the Lodge being named after him in 1876. It was possibly his social work and his contribution to the community that inspired the founders to use the de la Pole name when the Lodge was consecrated in 1876. A brief outline of the Lodge's history can be found on the Lodge website https://delapolelodge1605.org.uk/lodge-history/.

However, it was the art of speaking that dominated tonight's meeting. There was no ceremony as such. The Lodge was opened at 7.00 pm. The Technical Lodge 5666 was holding a Lodge of Instruction in the smaller room; I thought to myself that perhaps as the de la Pole Brethren were low in numbers, we might have been better in the smaller venue (I certainly struggled to hear what everyone was saying in the larger Lodge room.) The opening was slick; greetings were given to the UGLE officer present and then a knock at the door drew our attention to a red-aproned Provincial Grand Steward, who announced that W Bro Ian Syddall, Representative of the Assistant Provincial Grand Master in Charge, W Bro Ian Syddall, requested admission.

A Provincial escort was formed and Ian strode in to take his seat at the right of the WM, W Bro Malcolm John Forbes. The escort resumed its several seats, the minutes of the last meeting carried, and the WM then delivered a eulogy for the late Bro Barry Moss, who had been a de la Pole member since 2011. His contributions to the fabric of the building were testimony to his generosity. He had suffered significant health issues and travelled to the warmer climate of India, but his next destination was the Grand Lodge Above. The Brethren stood in respect.

The Junior Deacon, W Bro James Kerr, then spoke about the Festival and its current progress in the grand scheme of the Masonic Charitable Foundation (Festival 2029) and gave real-life examples of its implementation. He exhorted the Brethren to consult the Provincial website and support the various events therein. "It is the vehicle that enables the MCF to do what they do," he said. He opined that L1605 was "on target" with its contributions. £723,000 had been donated throughout the Province so far, he remarked, but it was important to keep the motivation going. Jimmy suggested that the carpark be utilised for stalls in a promotional event.

It occurred to me that if the art of conversation is dying, as some claim, this presentation was advocating the implementation of shorter, filtered digital interactions; possibly smartphones have eroded the art of communication, but they can still be used to receive information and to transfer money. https://ynerfestival29.org.uk/. Jimmy spoke of enterprises undertaken - parachute jumps, the Lyke Wake Walk, etc. He was persuasive and passionate, and fulfilling a task that needs to be done, but I wondered if in these difficult times if a less bombastic way of persuading the Brethren to put their hands in their pockets yet again might be a little more effective. That so many Brethren were absent this evening might indicate a lack of enthusiasm.

Reports followed. A detailed Almoner's report was given, followed by the Charity Steward's report, which was augmented by an addendum lasting as long as the main speaker's contribution. The de la Pole Lodge works hard in its Charitable donations and this was made very clear. I felt guilty later not being able to contribute as much as I usually give to the raffle, but I was short of ready cash.

General notices followed: a Notice of Motion to change the date of the September meeting to accommodate a significant Rose Croix convocation. A long list of apologies was read out, to which further comments were added. Mention was made of a possible joint Sunday Lunch with the Andrew Marvell Lodge families in July.

Greetings were given from the Andrew Marvell and Humber Lodges, and the Worshipful Master closed the Lodge with his customary eloquence. I managed to persuade the Rep's DC to take a photograph: (L to R, W Bros Ian Syddall, Representative; Malcolm Forbes, WM; Jim Kerr, Presenter; Eddie Wildman, Grumbler and Tutter.)

The name "Luke Pyrah" might translate as "Burning Light" (though the Surname might also translate as "living near the pear-tree") and it occurred to me that our Beverley Road Lodge Chef is a burning light when it comes to feeding the Brethren. We all ate heartily, and the Senior Warden, W Bro Ian Fuller, was even persuaded to extra vegetables. "Live up to your name," I suggested. "Someone who deals with woven cloth?" he said, obviously familiar with the origins of his surname. "No," I said, "I mean if you eat all your vegetables you'll be much fuller."

W Bro Ian Syddall responded to the fifth toast with thanks for the welcome, and thanks that much of what he'd intended to say had been preempted upstairs, saving him a task. He reiterated the importance in this day and age of using the website as a source of Masonic information. He commended the de la Pole Lodge for being so busy and involved. The Internet has brought about irrevocable changes, he said, and we will adapt to further change in the fullness of time. Freemasonry, he reminded everyone, is a hobby and we're here to enjoy it. Wise words.

The SW toasted the visitors. The JW gave the toast to absent, sick and seafaring Brethren.The WM gave the parting toast, and we left having been fed, mind and body, to capacity. "I don't think I could be any fuller," I said. "Don't start that again," said Ian, "or I'm not giving you a lift home."

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist.

 

Thursday 9th April 2026:

The Old Boys Rally Round

report by Eddie Wildman

Whatever the degree - Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, Master Mason or beyond, the Candidate is conducted round the Lodge room. He is not static, but moves from place to place to receive information. Sometimes he is placed in a particular part of the Lodge for an address (in the 1° there is an address at the northeast corner, for example) and as the WM and the Wardens occupy cardinal points, the Candidate is led to them for instruction from time to time.

However, the DC of the Old Hymerian Lodge 6885 had received last minute apologies from several Brethren, which, in addition to those already on his list, meant some reorganisation was required. But W Bro Anthony Cadle is not easily flustered. I'd been asked already to play the organ (W Bro Hunter was on holiday, I think) and at the Lodge of St Michael meeting on March 25th he'd asked if I could impart the Secrets of the 3° to the Candidate at the appropriate time; but now both Wardens had to be replaced and other ritualists found.

He'd already been in to the Lodge earlier, I noticed: the tables in the dining room were set out nicely, with the OH colours on the runners matched by the candleabra. I'd arrived in good time to admire the way he deployed the Brethren, and was able to ask vital questions like "Where do you want me to stand for my bit?" etc. By the time the WM, W Bro Malcolm Cuthbert arrived, W Bro Andrew Crozier was esconced as Senior Warden and W Bro Alex McCallum as Junior Warden, and other arrangements made (e.g. who was going to be Inner Guard while the incumbent, Bro Nick Adams, was raised to the 3°? - "Dad, I've a job for you.")

The Master opened the Lodge with quiet efficiency. I played the wrong tune for the opening ode, but the Brethren sang it anyway (there were visitors from Humber 57 and the Lodge of St Michael 7833 who use the tune I played) and the ceremony was under way. The minutes were confirmed, a couple of Officers invested - despite the number of apologies there were about twenty-five Brethren present - and there was a succesful ballot for two joining members (I sat next to Bro Hobson at the festive board.)

The Entered Apprentice left the Lodge, and the Lodge was raised to the 2°. Bro Adams showed his proficiency in answering the questions leading to the next stage, was entrusted with the password and retired to be prepared. Meanwhile the Lodge was opened in the 3° and I played suitably solemn music during the interim.

I am not going to write about the ceremony (I don't do spoilers) but it was a good one. The Senior and Junior Deacons, Bros Josh Hornby and Joseph Holden conducted Bro Adams round the room to the appropriate points. The Worshipful Master led Bro Adams through the Obligation, and W Bro Anthony Cadle delivered the exhortation. W Bro Richard Bate recited the Charge, and I explained the signs used in the Third Degree.

There is a form of ritual known as Emulation, practised by the Lodge of St Michael, and the Old Hymerian Lodge uses a similar working - but it is not exactly the same. I am more familiar with the Humber ritual, which is different again. Consequently Bro Adams experienced a sort of hybrid account (Humbulation, some call it) - a little fuller than the OH and Emulation working, but it worked - and I felt that Bro Adams was well informed when I concluded. Nobody grumbled at me afterwards, which was a relief.

The Senior Warden invested Bro Adams with the distinctive three-rosette apron of a Master Mason, W Bro Robert Alden, Lodge Secretary gave the traditional history, and Bro Bryn Abbott presented the Working Tools flawlessly - I was well impressed.

The 3° ceremony being complete, Bro Adams resumed his place as Inner Guard, and there being no Fellowcraft Masons present, the WM lowered the Lodge directly to the 1° and the EA was redmitted. I played the Hymerians' School Song for the recessional convoy and was delighted that some of the Old Boys sang along. The WM, the Wardens and Deacons returned with Master Mason Adams for a photograph for this blog. (L to R: W Bro Andrew Crozier, SW; Bro Josh Hornby, SD; Bro Nick Adams, Inner Guard; W Bro Malcolm Cuthbert, WM; Bro Joe Holden, Junior Warden and W Bro Alex McCallum, Junior Warden) while the Lodge was being cleared.

Luke Pyrah's succulent steaks were immensely satisfying, and the two vegetarians from the Lodge of St Michael professed themselves well content with their option. The hour being advanced, the WM decided that the first two toasts would suffice, and the Brethren departed with smiles on their faces. W Bro David Cadle drove me home - a pleasant bonus. Congratulations to everyone that took part - and to the Lodge's newest Master Mason!

Peter Stoke's account of this meeting may be found on https://www.lodge7833.org.uk/?Blog_Page

Eddie Wildman - Guest Organist

 

 

Wednesday 8th April 2026:

Initiation Ceremony at the the Lodge of St Andrew 4683

by Eddie Wildman

Clashes with other Lodge meetings preclude me from visiting the Lodge of St Andrew as often as I would like, so I was particularly pleased to be able to attend on the occasion of the WM's first ceremony. It is always nerve-wracking for the new man and his team, aware of the scrutinising eyes of their predecessors who have spent a year learning the work and are now turning to other offices. But the Worshipful Master, W Bro William Charlton was unflinching and led the Lodge with flawless ritual and a good clear voice. His  example inspired his team of officers to do likewise - nobody could fail to be impressed. Furthermore, it was an initiation meeting - that is to say, a new Candidate was being introduced into the Craft in the person of Mr Nicholas Davie. This increased the pressure, but the Lodge was steadfast in performing one of the best ceremonies I have witnessed for a long time. 

I'd arrived early to practise a little and schooled myself through basic keyboard warm-ups before W Bro Paul Bull arrived to set up the Lodge. As he moved the St Andrew artifacts into place I reflected on the image on the banner, which of course contains the distinctive saltire cross of the patron saint of Scotland.

There is a legend from the sixteenth century that in 832 AD Óengus II led an army of Scots and Picts against Æthelstan and the Angles (the English) who were trying to secure land for their own use. He was severely outnumbered, but on the eve of the battle Óengus (the Celtic name has evolved into Angus in modern parlance) prayed fervently to the Almighty, vowing that if he was victorious, he would appoint the popular St Andrew as the patron saint of Scotland. On the morning of the battle, the white clouds  formed an X shape in the blue sky. Óengus took this as divine intervention, and his soldiers, inspired, were victorious. 

This is why the white diagonal cross on a blue background is the design for the flag of Scotland. (There is a tradition that Andrew was bound to a crux decussata or "saltire",) Hence the Lodge of St Andrew (consecrated exactly 101 years ago) incorporates the saltire cross into its Lodge Banner and logo.

An article on the banner itself can wait for another occasion - unless one of the St Andrew members fancies having a go themselves?

I'll not write in length about the ceremony; it was all excellent (as Stanley Holloway remarked when describing the Ramsbottom's trip to Blackpool beach: "There was no wrecks and nobody drownded - 'fact, nothing to laugh at at all.") I was impressed that Mr Davie repeated his obligation with obvious understanding (aided by the WM, who delivered it comprehensively, not in the random chunks one sometimes hears) and seemed to be enjoying himself while taking everything in. It was a fine selection of both experienced and younger Brethren delivering the ritual: Bro Dougie Douglas delivered the Lesser Lights, W Bro Robert Jackson explained the sign, token and word, W Bro Roy Newton gave the address at the Northeast Corner, Bro James Cook pointed out the importance of the Warrant, Bro Nick Hammond illucidated the symbolism of the Working Tools. W Bro Paul Bull, the Candidate's proposer, relinquished his guardianship as Tyler to deliver the Ancient Charge, which encapsulates the Masonic Principle reaching back to the fourteenth century. Brother Davie retired to restore himself to his formal attire, during which time I had the privilege of presenting a Grand Lodge Certificate to Bro Charles Berdin Behag. Again I was impressed at the attention paid not only by Bro Behag, but the rest of the Brethren, who listened to every word.

Brother Davie returned for the customary reports and the closing of the Lodge, after which photographs were taken. My thanks to W Bro Bull for the images of Senior Deacon Nick Hammond, Entered Apprentice Nick Davie, Worshipful Master William Charlton and Junior Deacon Lee Cawood, (who conducted the Candidate round the Lodge throughout the ceremony); and Nick with his Apprentice apron next to Charlie Behag, holding his newly-presented Grand Lodge Certificate, and Eddie Wildman with his hands behind his back because he'd left his gloves on the organ stool.

The festive board was lovely. W Bro Eddie Brook, the new DC moved the toasts along after the meal (the Beverley Road Lodges are blessed by the contributions of Master Chef Luke Pyrah) and after the first five, W Bro Bull proposed an eloquent toast to the Candidate, explaining his bold move to East Yorkshire to supply prime cut provisions as a butcher in Hull. Brother Davie responded with clarity and simplicity, thanking the Brethren for their part in his initiation.

The Entered Apprentice Song was rendered by the Brethren. Despite the many talents displayed by this prestigious Lodge, singing is not one of them, but as there are several Candidates in the pipeline, this will almost certainly improve. After the penultimate verse of the song, the Brethren formed a Masonic Chain, and Brother Phil J Beadle, Charity Steward, explained the significance of the double-linked circle before the last verse of the song was performed in a number of keys. The Senior Warden, Bro Robert Thirsk, proposed the toast to the visitors (six from five Lodges, I think, though not all stayed for the festive board) and W Bro Darren Hanson, WM of the Lodge of St Germain 5666 responded. Visiting, of course, is an important aspect of Freemasonry, and I was sorry there had not been other visiting Brethren there to witness such a fine ceremony. Congratulations to everybody there!

Bro Ian Montgomery gave me a lift home, for which I was truly grateful. It had been a most satisfying evening.

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist.

 

 

 

Thursday 2nd April 2026:

For an account of the Humber Chapter Installation by Eddie Wildman and Neil Armstrong, see the Chapter blog page.

 https://humber57.org.uk/?Chapter-Blog

 

Wednesday 1st April 2026:

 

Lamb Shanks & Long Walks: A White Table Night to Remember

by Neil Armstrong and Eddie Wildman

There are evenings that simply "work" — where the atmosphere feels right from the moment guests arrive, and every element blends into something memorable. Last night’s White Table event was exactly that: a celebration of friendship, resilience, and the best of Masonic hospitality.

The WM, W Bro Wayne Walker, reduced Lodge business to a minimum as there was no ceremony; indeed the hymns at the start and finish were omitted as W Bro Wildman stayed downstairs to enjoy the company of the ladies and guests. Before this, however, he seized the opportunity for a photograph of the Master and the speaker for the evening, W Bro Chris Jones (thanks, WM for letting me use your mobile phone camera - I'd left mine at home.)

The highlight of the evening came early, an address that would move the room, with a deeply personal and uplifting talk from W Bro Chris Jones. He shared his journey through significant mental health challenges — not as a tale of struggle alone, but as a testament to perseverance, support, and hope.

What made his story even more remarkable was the extraordinary way he chose to give back: Not content with simply overcoming adversity, he decided to walk the entire coastline of the United Kingdom to raise money for charity, yes, the entire coastline. Most of us get tired just walking around the Lodge room clockwise, but he took it several thousand miles further. He managed to raise over £75,000 for the Freemasons’ charity (MCF). His journey was both touching and inspiring, serving as a gentle reminder that resilience sometimes simply requires a sturdy pair of walking boots—or, in his case, four pairs!

Mile after mile, step after step, he turned his recovery into a force for good. His words were honest, humble, and quietly powerful, and they resonated with everyone present.

His back story of life as a squaddie, a construction worker, a youth trainer and his ambitions thwarted by cut-back requirements of the MOD and government sanction led to burn-out and depression, whereupon Covid hit the world and things became impossible - until the intervention of the MCF. Chris's story of coping while perambuating the country was inspiring: "the learning curve was vertical" - camping behind beach huts, on golf courses and even graveyards and contending with all weathers, including the "Beast from the East". It was tough going, especially in the winter months. Finding food - there were no shops open out of season - was a nightmare. Injuries were a problem and the terrain could be a mighty challenge. It was on the west coast of Scotland, he said, that he experienced an epiphany and he learned to stop worrying. "Something always happens," he said, "and I learned to live in the now." Chris visited a number of Lodges during his two-year trekking, and their contribution to his efforts also supported the MCF - enough to pay for mental health care for young people for two years - and indeed, the money is still coming in - the WM made a donation that evening which included the proceeds from the raffle. Chris is writing a book about his experiences which hopefully will be on sale soon.

After such an inspiring start, the following meal had a lot to live up to — and Chef Luke delivered beautifully. The standout dish of the night was the lamb shank: slow-cooked, tender, and rich with flavour. It was the kind of plate that brings a table together, prompting nods of approval and the occasional contented silence. The rest of the meal was equally well received, but the lamb shanks will be talked about for some time.

No White Table evening is truly complete without a musical rendition, and this gathering concluded on an uplifting note. Maestro Eddie Wildman played the keyboard while W Bro Richard Smedley’s rich bass baritone voice led a medley of Masonic toast songs, filling the space with cherished tunes, heartfelt lyrics, and shared joy. Guests enthusiastically joined in; despite a few off-key moments, their energy far surpassed any creative liberties with the melody, especially during the closing chorus — which was loud enough to rouse the Janitor!

Richard and I have performed together on many occasions. As the accompanist, it is a pleasure to work with someone you know and with familiar songs. What I hadn't realised, however, is what a lovely voice Mrs Smedley had: when she joined in the choruses, it was like a beam of sunlight brightening the music. "The ladies . . . bring sunshine to our lives," sang Richard. I heartily concur. Thanks to Bro Jake McLeavy for the photograph.

The night ended as a perfect celebration of unity and happiness.

This White Table event reminded us why these evenings matter. They open our doors, share our values, and bring people together in a way that feels both timeless and deeply personal. With heartfelt storytelling, excellent food, and the camaraderie of song, it was a night that captured the essence of our Lodge at its very best.

If this is the standard we’re setting as a team, the rest of the year is going to be a delight.

Neil & Eddie

 

Tuesday 31st March 2026:

Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master Appointed

We are pleased to announce the appointment of RWBro Mark Iveson as the RWPGM and the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent of the Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings.

 

 

Monday 30th March 2026:

Cowboy Initiation at Dodge City

Minerva Lodge's Lodge of Instruction Open Night celebrations with Stetsons and six-shooters is reported on https://minerva250.org.uk/?Blog_page.

ERW

 

Thursday 25th March 2026:

The Lodge of St Michael raises another Master Mason

by Eddie Wildman

The Lodge Logo for St Michael 7833 has its ancestry in the banner created for the church of St Michael and All Angels Sutton Ings; it was originally made for the church by the Mothers Union and depicted St Michael with his flaming sword standing over the defeated dragon. This was on permanent loan to the Lodge until the Ladies of the new Lodge members provided the Lodge with its customised banner, which was dedicated in 1991. St M and the beast are faithfully depicted as in the original (see https://www.lodge7833.org.uk/?History___1987_%7E_2012) but other Masonic elements have been added around them.

I sometimes have days when I feel like the triumphant archangel depicted so tellingly in fabric; I also have occasions when I feel more like the trampled creature under St Michael's mailed boots.

Today had definitely been a dragon day. I'll not mention the arguments with various folk in the early part of the day, but I was distinctly disgruntled by the time I left the house and made my way to the bus stop. I bravely forced my face into a smile and greeted the Brethren as they arrived at Dagger Lane, but after a while I found I couldn't cope with the conversations around me, and went upstairs to play the organ until it was time for the meeting to begin.

I was interrupted as the DC came in, knocked loudly and called "Brethren, upstanding" and I stopped - mid bar. And waited. Those Brethren who had been chatting took their places and waited.

The DC left, then returned. "As you were," he said. There'd obviously been some sort of delay. I didn't start playing again - I wasn't going to be interrupted twice, and I waited.

Eventually the WM and his officers paraded in and I provided suitably martial accompaniment, watching closely so that my final cadence coincided with the DC taking his seat.

This is not uncommon, nor is it just in L7833. Music nowadays is, I think, simply regarded as background noise to be shouted over - like a noisy programme on TV, not as a live performance for the benefit of other listeners. I put it out of my mind as the WM, W Bro David Whittall opened the Lodge. I'm sure there was no intention to wind me up. (I wondered whether to revise this decision later, but it is time to report on the meeting itself.)

The occasion was well attended - though the Senior Warden was on holiday and W Bro Terry James Lynn took his place in the West. The Junior Warden in the South was W Bro Stephen Longthorp. Six of the visitors were from the Old Hymerian Lodge 6885, and it was a delight to see them there.

I'll not expand on the ceremony, which was an Emulation working of the third degree. The Lodge has a reputation for thoroughness - though in my dragonish mood I cavilled silently when I should have relaxed to the leisurely rhythm of the work, then reprimanded myself - I was turning into one of the back-row tutters. The Fellowcraft freemasons retired before the Lodge was raised to the 3° and Brother Steven Norman answered the questions leading to the rank of a Master Mason and then retiring for preparation.

For those Brethren new to Masonry - or those readers who are not members of the Craft - a ceremony of advancement (being promoted from the 1° to the 2°, or the 2° to the 3°, or from the 3° to the Royal Arch Chapter) usually includes questions which the Candidate is required to answer, in order to prove his "proficiency". Sometimes they are exchanged between the WM and the Wardens, though some Lodges simply provide them on a card for the Candidate to learn. This can be nerve-wracking for a nervous Initiate or Fellowcraft, but it is part of the process; Candidates are encouraged to absorb the Q&As as they embody our principles. Brother Norman had done his homework, however.

There is a particular drama about the third degree which I'll not enlarge on here, and the expectations in the Lodge room changed to accommodate the seriousness of the ceremony about to take place. I'm not going to write about the ceremony, suffice it to say that it was well managed. The Retrospect, delivered by Bro John Burton, was nicely delivered. I was privileged to recite some of King Solomon's words recorded in the Book of Ecclesiastes and W Bro Stephen Prior explained the five points by which a Master Mason can be recognised. When Bro Norman had been invested with his apron, the Master spoke of the responsibilities it implied.

The ancient legend of murder, escape and capture was brought to light by the Senior Warden, and the Tracing Board was explained by the Junior Deacon, Bro John Burton. Brother David Broughton explained the working tools with admirable fluency.

There is a lovely ritual by which the Lodge is lowered from the third to the second degree. It is known as the Long Closing. The Long Closing from the second to the first ritual was then enacted after the Fellocrafts reentered. Some Brethren were covertly looking at their watches, and a smell of cooking wafted up from the kitchen. The dragon in me growled impatiently.

There were propositions made for local charitable donations  and for a Candidate, who will probably be joining soon. In AOB one Brother raised the issue of the selling up of care homes - a decision out of our hands, but it was felt that some representation should be made regarding the supporting of Connaught Court - to be discussed at committee level and brought back to the Lodge. Donations to a local mental health charity and to a youth rugby club were proposed and voted upon.

Greetings were given and the Lodge was closed and I managed to take a photograph of the newly invested Master Mason Steven in his distinctive three-rosettes apron with the Worshipful Master before retiring to the Festive Board. My friend Terry had bought me a drink, bless him. There was a little confusion as there were not enough seats at the tables to accommodate everybody, but that was soon sorted out.

A "So mote it be" - the Masonic "Amen" - is sung after the Chaplain has said grace before and after the meal. Being short I often cannot see the Chaplain when the Brethren are standing (and as I'm finding it difficult to hear I couldn't hear him either) but I knew when it was coming at the start. Whoops, I missed the second grace as I was collecting plates (this is not the place to grumble about those Brethren with their arses screwed to their seats who blithely pass their dishes without even looking) so didn't have time to give the Brethren their note - sorry! I didn't appreciate the jokes about my deafness, however, though they were not meant maliciously. "I'm not coming anymore," I said, and those around me laughed. 

 

I'm lacking in humility, I know, but I settled down during the toasts. There was no warning for the loyal toast (before which the national anthem is sung) but I managed to get to the piano in time. ("Am I invisible?" I wondered.) It had been a long evening, but the WM was wise not to reduce the number of toasts - when we are blessed with visitors, they should be recognised and encouraged to speak. W Bro Malcolm Cuthbert of the Old Hymerian Lodge responded. The Old Hymerians Lodge (and the Wyke Millennium Lodge, whose WM, W Bro Malcolm Grange was also visiting) also practise Emulation ritual. W Bro Cuthbert told everyone that his Lodge would be raising a Candidate to the 3° next month, and invited visitors.

Another tradition of the Lodge of St Michael is the singing of Auld Lang Syne at the end. This was done with gusto.

I turned invisible leaving the Lodge, too - I couldn't reach my coat and Masonic case as people stood talking and blocking the doorway. It had been a dragon of a day, and despite the excellent ceremony and tasty Salmon en Croute I was glad to make my way home.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist.

 

 

 

Wednesday 24th March 2026:

For a report on the double exaltation ceremony at the Chapter of St Andrew 4683 and the unexpected arrival of Humber's E Comp Richard Smedley, 2nd Provincial Grand Principal, Officer in Charge, see Eddie Wildman's remarks on the Humber Chapter blog page.

 

Monday 23rd March 2026:

2°@BvRd

by Eddie Wildman

On the bus on the way to the Andrew Marvell Lodge at Beverley Rd I was impressed by the speed with which passengers were texting, their thumbs blurring, words appearing and vanishing faster than the eye could follow. I'm not against texting nor against the contractions employed in text messages. It amuses me sometimes to work out what they mean "lol" - is that "lots of laughs" or "lots of love" - or "Lodge of Instruction"? I suppose it dates me when I sign off with "SYLA" - in the current idiom would it be "CUL8r"? - accepted answer is "AAWC". Climbing the stairs to the Lodge Room (I'm sure they keep adding extra steps - I recall the old days when I could leap up them like a gazelle) I met the Andrew Marvell DC, Worshipful Brother Richard Green, Past Provincial Grand Sword Bearer (pictured) doing his customary last-minute check that everything was in place, and we spoke of how the times had changed since we began. "I remember being initiated in Little Park Street," Richard said. "Come to think of it, that was in March. Twenty-five years ago." I reflected that a quarter century had passed remarkably rapidly, (labooh) and that Richard didn't look any older than when I first met him. "Let's take a photograph for posterity," I suggested. "PDQ."

W Bro Ian Fuller took the Chair and opened the Lodge efficiently, despite there being a number of stand-ins: W Bro Forbes stood in for the Inner Guard, and it was a pleasure to hear his clear enunciation. It was also a pleasure to see one of the Lodge Stalwarts, W Bro Andrew Peach PPJGW on the dais with the Master - Andrew joined the Lodge in 1973.  In the west there were three entered apprentices, one of whom, Brother Daniel Aldred, was moving to the Second Degree this evening. (Consequently, his role as Junior Deacon was taken over by W Bro Colin Shields. W Bro Chris Brown left with the other two Entered Apprentices to mentor them whilst Bro Dan was advanced to the next stage in his Masonic journey.) 

Bro Aldred, properly prepared and with the password for entry carefully memorised, reentered the Lodge, and now conducted by the Senior Warden W Bro Tom Cawkwell, was advanced to the Master's Pedestal to take the obligation of a Fellowcraft Freemason. W Bro Tom gave an enlightening explanation of the signs and words exclusive to FCFs,
which were reinforced by the Junior Warden, Bro Ian Walker, and the Senior Warden, W Bro Alan Smelt, who invested Bro Aldred with the 2° apron. The address at the Southeast Corner was given by W Bro Malcolm Forbes, and I explained the working tools of the degree before the Chaplain, W Bro Adrian Hayward delivered the Charge.

The Q&A exchange between the Master and his principle officers reminded me that the ampersand I'd scribbled in my notes had been invented according to some sources by Marcus Tullius Tiro, Secretary to Cicero in the first century AD. 

The Entered Apprentices returned when the Lodge was lowered back to the first degree, Bro Tom Rossiter delivered a nugget about the ancient moral standards of the early Craft still applying today, and the familiar closing sequence brought the meeting to a conclusion. I managed a photograph of Brother Aldred with the distinctive two rosettes apron just before we left the Lodge Room for the meal downstairs (fish pie - yummy!)

It had been a congenial evening at L5642. There being few visitors (I stood for Humber, of course, and Malcolm Forbes stood with me) the WM decided to streamline the toasts at the Festive Board. We took our leave of each other and I was given a lift home by the WM. "I'll try to get the report done before I go to bed," I told him. "Well, I'll read it in the morning," said Ian, "See you later, alligator,"

"After a while, crocodile," I said. Damn. Now the sound of Bill Haley and the Comets would be going through my head for the rest of the night. But well done, AM 5642! And keep on learning those words!

Eddie Wildman, Organist

 

 

 

Saturday 21st March 2026:

A New Year celebration at Technical Lodge 5666

by Malcolm Forbes

 

A Saturday night treat was in store for Brethren, wives and partners as the Lodge celebrated Nowruz, the Persian New Year, courtesy of Worshipful Master W Bro Arash Vesali.

It was heartening to chat to a goodly number of Lodge Brethren before the Lodge tyled at 6.30 pm. I sat alongside W Bro Wayne Walker, the Worshipful Master of Kingston Lodge 1010, and W Bro James Steele, who was Worshipful Master of Technical Lodge in 2016 in the large Lodge room during the Lodge meeting.

After the Opening of the Lodge, Director of Ceremonies W Bro Robert Atkinson requested the Brethren to acclaim Grand Lodge Officers, W Bro Dr Hiten Thaker and W Bro Eddie Wildman.

After Lodge Secretary W Bro Dan Laughton read out a portion of the Antient Charges, the minutes of the Lodge meeting held on 21st February 2026 were duly approved.

Bro David Turner then gave a eulogy on behalf of W Bro Colin Pegg, who was a member of Technical Lodge and Beverlonian Lodge 9084.

Lodge reports then followed.

The meeting quickly moved on as no propositions were put forward, correspondence was duly noted and any other business including apologies were dealt with.

The announcement of W Bro Wildman's Grand Lodge appointment of Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies thoroughly merited the warm applause of the Brethren.

During the risings, W Bro Steele gave greetings on behalf of Phoenix Lodge 9963. W Bro Walker gave greetings on behalf of Kingston Lodge and Juno Lodge 10001, of which W Bro Steele is also a member. As Worshipful Master of Humber Lodge 57 I gave greetings with W Bro Wildman on behalf of the Lodge. I also gave greetings on behalf of De La Pole Lodge 1605.

The Ladies awaited the Brethren downstairs. The dining room reflected the Persian theme of the evening with the tables decorated accordingly. I took my seat at a table with W Bro Wildman, W Bro Philip Daniels, W Bro John Chapman and Bro Turner along with their guests.

The three course meal was a triumph of versality from chef Luke Pyrah and his staff who prepared a Persian style meal. Spiced aubergines were followed by a beef or vegetarian casserole with rice and a Persian recipe milk pudding or cheese and biscuits. Dried fruit and spices were an accompaniment to the feast. The taste buds were fully satisfied.

Two toasts were submitted.

Following the meal musical entertainment was provided by Pedraum Agahi who played the santoor, a Persian musical instrument. The delicate "sticks" used allowed a wealth of expression in this essentially (but not exclusively) melodic medium. Subtleties of finger movement and precise wrist control produced rhythmic and dynamic nuances which held us spellbound. His dexterity and musical range intrigued the audience.

WM W Bro Vesali then provided the background to the celebrations. He explained that the Persian New Year starts at the exact moment Spring begins which this year was at 2.45 pm GMT on 20th March. The traditions associated with it date back 3,000 years. The New Year lasts thirteen days when families visit each other. Tables of food with symbolic significance representing rebirth and renewal are prepared for families to sit round. Festivals of fire where individuals jump over the flames in the Zoroastrian tradition of Chaharshambe Suri take place on the last Wednesday night before the New Year are another feature of the celebrations.

W Bro Vesali brought these traditions to life with his presentation, though he didn't jump over any fires (Health and Safety restrictions - even the candles were battery operated.) The audience appreciated the time and effort of W Bro Vesali, the Lodge and Luke Pyrah in making the evening such a cultural experience.

The raffle raised £210. There was a table full of raffle prizes.
Brethren and guests started departing at 10.00 pm after an eye opening occasion. Freemasonry is non-denominational and the occasion embraced traditions with which many of those present would be unfamiliar. It was a heartwarming evening.

 

Malcolm Forbes

 

 

 

Wednesday 18th March 2026:

Installation and Outstallation at Kingston Chapter 1010.

See the Chapter blog for this date to read Neil Armstrong's account of the Kingston Chapter Installation ceremony where the outgoing MEZ, E Comp Eddie Wildman installed his successor, W Bro Mike Price. The Humber Companions were represented by Malcolm Forbes.

 

Monday 16th March 2026:

Spot the Liars!

by Eddie Wildman

A score of Holderness Brethren, or thereabouts, attended the regular Lodge meeting at Beverley Road. W Bro Danny Betts was in the Chair and he called off the Lodge after opening for an enlightening "Call My Bluff" session wherein Brother Colin Wilson, W Bro Malvin Sharpless and Bro James Anderson gave differing answers to the questions submitted by the Quizmaster, W Bro Eddie Wildman. The watching Brethren, organised into small groups, were challenged to determine which of the Speakers were lying, and which were telling the truth. The questions and answers all had Masonic content - and it was surprising to see how many Brethren were misled by the persuasiveness of the Challenge Team. Well done to Rollo's team which scored highest! (Pictured: Colin, James, me and Malvin.)

The WM called the Lodge back on, the Holderness Officers resumed their regular places in the Lodge Room, and the meeting continued with reports from the Charity Steward (W Bro Ashlby-Kelly is taking part in the parachute jump for the Festival,) the Almoner (who keeps an assiduous finger on the pulse of the Lodge members  and the widows,) the Mentor and the Royal Arch Representative. I had trouble hearing some of them - deafness is an increasing problem.

Apologies and correspondence were dealt with, and AOB. The next meeting will be a business meeting, during which the WM for next year will be decided upon. W Bro Steve Cox, APGM and Stand-in Senior Warden, who has been in charge of the highly succesful TLC enterprise (Teddies for Loving Care) for many years, asked if any younger Brethren would be interested in taking over this task. Small cuddly teddy bears are given to children arriving in hospital; their calming effect is remarkable (the WM spoke of their effectiveness in relieving distress from his own experience - he had watched as children responded at Hull Royal Infirmary and confirmed how beneficial the teddies were.) It would be nice, Steve said, if this were continued by the Holderness Lodge which has led the way in the Province.

Greetings were extended from UGLE, from the Officers of YN&ER and from the SW on behalf of all the Brethren present.

Luke Pyrah's lasagne was delicious and the Brethren retired after what had been a short but pleasant evening concluding with the Master's Parting Toast: "May we happy meet again."

Eddie Wildman, Organist and Quizmaster

 

 

Saturday 14th March 2026:

Lord Bolton Lodge 3263 welcomes another Initiate

by Eddie Wildman

Coincidentally (if there really is such a thing as coincidence) I had been reading H Montague Williams' History of the Lord Bolton Lodge of Freemasons No. 3263, Hull, 1907 - 1950 on the same afternoon that I was due to visit them, and I came across a passage which informed me that the author had been initiated into the Lodge exactly one hundred years ago. His book gives illuminating details of the Brethren a century ago, and traces the move of the Lodge from Osborne Street to Anne Street, Hull (where Humber Lodge met at the time) and its subsequent relocations.

That was a difficult time in the UK; there were issue with fuel prices (coal) - the total output had been in decline since 1914, the national economy was under threat and the miners' industry was in disarray. May 1926 saw the General Strike and the nation's transport came to a standstill.

Williams does not allude to the political and social climate at this stage in his book, however. But the Lord Bolton Lodge has survived two World Wars, and these affected this and other Lodges, in Hull in particular. I reflected as I put down the volume to prepare for tonight's meeting that we are again living in troubled times, now with different parts of the world being in conflict over fuel crises.

I travelled to Beverley Road with W Bro John Stebbings and we arrived to find the Worshipful Master, W Bro Colin Bird (pictured) already there with some of his officers. The Candidate for Initiation, Mr Richard Shann was chatting to his proposer, Bro Carl Eden. Mr Shann looked confident and relaxed, which is always a good sign.

It was an excellent ceremony. I'd challenged the Lodge Support Officer, W Bro Neil Armstrong of the Kingston Lodge 1010 to identify the composers of the pieces I played during the ceremony - he is a music buff, and this kept us both on our toes; I wouldn't get away with simply extemporising tonight.

W Bro Bird opened the Lodge with calm authority and at the appropriate point after the minutes of the last meeting had been signed (to music by Puccini) a loud rap on the door from the Tyler (was W Bro Stebbings using a hammer, I wondered) announced that Mr Shann was humbly soliciting to be admitted. He was duly passed into the capable hands of Bro Owen Brookes, Junior Deacon, who conducted him through the ceremony.

It was a well-controlled ceremony, I thought. The ritual was delivered with authority and understanding and the WM's recitation of the obligation was a masterclass in phrasing and clarity.

To digress for a moment - the Candidate repeats the words of the obligation phrase by phrase. Clarity is essential, and I have often winced when the Master is not precise and the word "excepted" is misheard as "accepted". (Strictures regarding the obligation were introduced following the Unlawful Societies Act of 1799, but that story will be reserved for the Humber Lodge's Founders Night in May.) Tonight, however, every word was crystal clear.

The DC, W Bro Alexander Hoggard was also crystal clear indicating when all the Brethren should show their approbation; the Brethren were precisely together.

The great and lesser lights in Freemasonry were explained by the Master, and the sign, grip and word of an Entered Apprentice were demonstrated by Bro Carl Eden. Brother Shann was attentive and responsive, executing the moves with military precision when demonstrating them to the Junior Warden, W Bro Ian Fuller and the Senior Warden, W Bro Gerald Lock, who invested the Candidate with the pristine white apron of an Entered Apprentice. (I have remarked elsewhere on the trend to purchase aprons in each degree with metal clasps; these are very smart and worn by Brethren after the initiation ceremony. The address at the Northeast Corner (which I had the privilege to deliver) precludes the Candidate carrying any metal, however. This instruction has its origins in the construction of King Solomon's Temple - I leave it to the curious reader to discover the reason.

The Working Tools - the basic instruments used by an apprentice stonemason when learning his trade and the symbolism thereof were explained by the JW, W Bro Fuller and the IPM, W Bro Robert Gwatkin. The Chaplain, W Bro Andrew Hoggard, delivered the Ancient Charge.

Bro Shann retired to put on his dark suit and EA Apron (now with buckle.) Before his return, reports were given, and the Lodge Provincial Support Officer extended congratulations to the Lodge. Another mighty blow from the Tyler announced Bro Shann's re-entry. W Bro Hoggard escorted him to a seat in the southeast corner of the Lodge. Greetings were extended from UGLE, from the Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings, from the five visitors, and from the Senior Warden on behalf of the Lord Bolton Brethren.

I took a snapshot of Bro Carl Eden (proposer), Bro Richard Shann (EAF), W Bro Colin Bird, (WM) and Bro Owen Brookes (JD) after the Lodge was closed. (See above.)

The Festive Board was a reflection of the excellence of our Chef, Luke Pyrah, (pictured) who has gained the reputation of being the best Masonic Hall Chef in the Province. I was impressed by the younger Brethren who served the older ones with graceful efficiency - and the microphone used at the top table for those of us who are hard of hearing; these considerate touches do not go unnoticed - thank you Brethren!

I was seated next to Neil Armstrong, and asked how he'd managed in identifying the composers. Boccherini, Puccini, Tchaikovsky, Handel, Pachelbel, Beethoven, Dvorak, Elgar, Bach and Fauré - he'd scored eight out of ten. "I love the E minor symphony," he said, "but I need to work on my operatic repertoire." He deserves a star, so I include one on this page.

In his closing remarks the Master mentioned Montague Williams' history, alluding to the the charred remains of the Minute Book which survived the blitz in World War 2. He read the poignant remarks of the author, initiated a century ago:

 

"We have then from the fury of the enemy, the rage of war, and the destroying flames a visible reminder, if ever we needed one, to work diligently and constantly to promote peace on earth, tolerance and goodwill towards all men."

Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist.

 

Friday 13th March 2026:

 

De la Pole Lodge 1605; the journey to the Royal Arch

by Malcolm Forbes

It was good to see an upturn in numbers attending the monthly Lodge meeting. Nineteen Brethren were present in the Lodge room, whilst fifteen Brethren attended the Festive Board.

Director of Ceremonies W Bro Ben Kelly announced that Grand Lodge Officer W Bro Eddie Wildman is due to receive further Grand Lodge honours at Queen Street, London on 29th April 2026. W Bro Wildman's appointment as Past  Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies merited the Brethren's warm applause.

It was my sad duty as Worshipful Master and Lodge Almoner to announce the passing of honorary member Bro Barry Moss to the Grand Lodge Above. Bro Moss, who was 86, had fulfilled his ambition to return to India in February where he had hoped he would have more comfort but died in the hotel he was staying in soon after his arrival there. A eulogy will be given at the next Lodge meeting on 10th April.

Following the reading of a portion of the Antient Charges by Secretary W Bro Laurie Fenwick, the minutes of the Lodge meeting held on 13th February were duly confirmed.

The highlight of the Lodge meeting was a presentation entitled the 'Holy Royal Arch' given by W Bro Russ Garbutt. The presentation had added focus given a series of Provincial workshops, including one at Beverley Road Masonic Hall on 28th February, entitled 'Building Together'. The Craft and the Chapter are seen as one Masonic journey from the Initiation as an Entered Apprentice to the Exaltation of a Companion of the Holy Royal Arch. The illustrated presentation provided a chronological underpinning of Biblical scripture surrounding King Solomon's temple. As was demonstrated by questions after the presentation there are different interpretations of the historical basis upon which Chapter Masonry is founded. The presentation gave much food for thought and was well received.

Subsequently Lodge reports were delivered.

The Brethren had cause for celebration as W Bro Gordon Slater was due to celebrate his 91st birthday on 14th March, the day after the Lodge meeting. To W Bro Wildman's musical accompaniment the Brethren sang the song 'Happy Birthday'. W Bro Slater stood up to thank the Brethren and reflect that he had joined De La Pole Lodge in 2008 on his 73rd birthday.

In the risings W Bro Wildman gave greetings on behalf of Grand Lodge and separately on behalf of Humber Lodge 57 as the only visitor.

The Closing Hymn was sung before photographs were then taken by W Bro Wildman of the Worshipful Master and W Bro Garbutt on the dais. (Russ is the one with the dark blue collar.)

The Brethren made their way to the Festive Board at 8.20 pm. A tasty three course meal featuring fish and chips and mushy peas as the main course awaited them. Two toasts were submitted.

A birthday card signed by the Brethren present was given to W Bro Slater after the meal.

The raffle raised £92 and the alms collection raised £12.

In his parish notes the Worshipful Master thanked the stand-ins. W Bro Peter Robson stood in as IPM, W Bro Peter Spencer stood in as Chaplain, W Bro Ian Fuller stood in as Junior Deacon and Bro John Hender stood in as Inner Guard. As always W Bro Wildman provided the musical icing on the cake. (For W Bro Wildman's reflections on the word "stand" see the article below.)

The Worshipful Master gave the parting toast at 9.30 pm. It was time to give W Bro John Taylor a lift home, being past his bedtime.

The Lodge is looking forward to future social events including the celebration of its 150th anniversary at a lunch at Beverley Road Masonic Hall on 24th October 2026. (You are advised to mark it in your diaries.)

The evening had been a mix of emotions. Freemasonry supports its Brethren and the community as exhibited by the voluntary work of Senior Warden and Lodge Mentor Bro John Holmes, who works tirelessly to support the Ukrainian communities both locally and in their homeland. The essence of labour and refreshment and refreshment and labour in Freemasonry is well brought out by the Lodge.

 

Malcolm Forbes, Worshipful Master

 

Wednesday 11th March 2026:

Outstanding Performance

by Eddie Wildman

A notice behind the driver on the bus into Hull warned passengers "When the bus is moving you must not stand forward of this notice or distract the driver without good reason." This was, I reflected, sound advice, though the grammarian in me wonderd if "nor" would have been more correct. As the other passengers sat and deployed their mobile phones ("im on the bus now coming down spring bank is t ready im starving") I thought about the word "stand".

We use it a lot. We stand up, or stand down. We stand at attention or at ease. Sometimes we stand by, sometimes we stand back. Sometimes the word is used in a negative sense ("I can't stand it") or positively ("We all stand together") or in a purely advisory and adjectival capacity ("Standing Room Only").

Walking from the bus stop to the Lodge at Dagger Lane I wondered about this flexible verb, which is possibly why it kept coming to my attention during Minerva Lodge's 1° ceremony.

The DC, W Bro David Green informed the thirty plus Brethren there of the fire drill procedure, should we need it, and we stood to order as the WM, W Bro Richard Marshall opened the Lodge with commendable efficiency. The minutes were approved after which there was a ballot for a Candidate (who was in good standing, I reminded myself - a necessary qualification for membership.) This proved succesful, and we moved to the main business of the evening, the initiation of Mr Grant Keable.

It was a super ceremony, even though there were some last-minute stand-ins. Following the obligation by the Master (the Brethren stood for this essential portion of the ceremony) Bro Kurt Crawford stood tall to deliver the Lesser Lights (at short notice) and later, the North East Corner, explaining that the Candidate was standing at that part of the Lodge as a figurative foundation to his Masonic career. The Junior Deacon, Bro Wayne Sutherby, conducted him through the initiation, standing by his side for each part of the ceremony.

W Bro Richard Theaker gave a flawless rendition of the signs and the grip, and explained the symbolism of how we stand as Freemasons. The Warrant was well elucidated by Bro Evaldas Korsakas and Bro David Fee pointed out the symbolic application of the Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice Freemason - each of which stands for a different aspect of our daily life. W Bro Mike Ogram delivered the Ancient Charge, the only part of the ceremony which is actually in the public domain, a document of legitimacy which has stood the test of time, dating back to the beginnings of the Craft.

Reports followed and greetings were extended from UGLE (me) and from the Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings (Peter Willoughby). There were visitors from the Holderness Lodge 3563 and the Brough Lodge 5464 (as well as, of course, Humber Lodge 57, the premier Lodge in the Province.)

""Brethren, upstanding," commanded the DC as the WM was about to retire. A peculiar expression, I mused - I have never heard the antonym used - "Brethren, downsitting."

I took a picture of Entered Apprentice Brother Keable standing with the Worshipful Master, Worshipful Brother Richard Marshall in front of the Minerva banner, after the Lodge was closed, and we went downstairs for the festive board.

Ever since the formation of the first Grand Lodge in 1717, Masons would gather at taverns or inns after the formal meeting, for fellowship, refreshment and fraternal bonding. These informal gatherings eventually evolved into the structured Festive Boards we know today, though there are records of dining and drinking a Brother's health during Lodge meetings themselves. (Incidentally, from the 16th century, a "board" was a table around which important meetings took place. The earliest Western tables were simple boards supported on trestles. The name then shifted from the furniture to the folk who sat around it. The expression "board of directors" was first recorded in 1712.)

Nowadays Masonic protocols align with dining traditions.

We enjoyed Chef Julie's meal before the toasts with the "boards" laid out in the traditional manner - a top table with two wings. The word "festive" means "pertaining to a feast" and comes from the Latin festivus - joyous - a holiday. It was used  from the late 14th century to mean any enjoyable occasion or event.

The traditional Masonic toasts were submitted, beginning with that to the King. Brother Keable responded to the toast to him briefly but with great sincerity, saying how much he'd enjoyed himself. Brother Jim Bradshaw (Stand-in Senior Warden) toasted the visitors, and the Master of Brough Lodge 5464, W Bro Paul Andrew Garthwaite responded. The WM gave Parish notices at some considerable length, reminding the Brethren of the forthcoming Lodge of Instruction Open Night and other events.

Finally the Junior Warden, Brother Rich Driver, submitted the parting toast: "Brethren, please stand,raise your glasses and drink the parting toast: Happy have we met, happy have we been; happy do we part and may we happy meet again." Our glasses clinked (but that's a story for another time) and we took our leave from the longest standing custom-built Masonic Lodge building in the City of Hull - but you can read all about that on the Minerva history pages. "I'll give you a lift back," David Green said to me, "you don't have to stand in a queue for a bus." He's a fine upstanding fellow.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist.

 

Tuesday 10th March 2026:

Humber Lodge with Sarah

by Malcolm Forbes

 

Saturday 21st February 2026:

Technical Initiation

by Eddie Wildman

As I took my my music upstairs and went to check out the organ, I noticed that a number of aprons were kept by the door for those younger Brethren who have not yet taken the third degree. (When someone becomes a Master Mason he usually purchases his own apron so he can wear it when visiting his own Lodge and any other Lodges - so if you have wondered why Masons are always seen carrying square cases, it is because they are taking their pinnies with them.) Irreverence aside, though, the Apron is a distinguishing mark of a Freemason and dates back to the wearing of lambskin aprons by the ancient stonemasons. In Freemasonry, the apron has a particular significance.

Tonight the Lodge was initiating a new Candidate, and I checked to be sure that there was a traditional apron for him to wear. There were a number of splendid aprons which fastened with a belt and a metal clasp; these, however, would not be suitable for the Candidate. The DC, W Bro Rob Atkinson joined me upstairs and I pointed this out. "The Candidate is supposed to have no metal on him," I reminded Rob. I didn't dilate on the historical reason which alludes to the building of King Solomon's Temple - he understood immediately. "You're right," he said. "I'll find one of the tie-on models."

The WM, W Bro Arash Vesali opened the Lodge in due form, and the usual business of signing the minutes of the last meeting etc. took place without incident.

The Inner Guard answered the Tyler's knock and announced that Mr Jordan Pritchard was asking to enter; W Bro Berry, standing in as Secretary this evening ascertained that he had signed the necessary documents and paid the fees, so Mr Pritchard was collected at the door by the Junior Deacon, Bro Malcolm H Gambles, the Lodge's tallest member. Surprisingly, he topped Jordan by only a few inches. It occurred to me that the shorter (and older) members of the Lodge are increasingly challenged by the younger Brethren. The Worshipful Master himself is no lightweight either.

Mr Pritchard was conducted to the JW, W Bro Hiten Thaker and the SW, Bro Adam Tunnicliffe before taking his obligation, which was recited in short phrases so that there should be no misunderstanding, as the Worshipful Master's accent is somewhat challenging. W Bro Vesali was assiduous in polishing each phrase, and the Candidate was giving him his full attention; this added to the dignity and seriousness of the occasion.The Brethren stood to order during this essential part of the initiation ceremony.

W Bro Vesali explained the three Great Lights in Freemasonry, and Fellowcraft Freemason Bro John Hemingway follwed with an explanation of the three Lesser Lights. The means by which Entered Apprentice Freemasons are known to each other were well communicated by Bro Nigel Goldthorpe, the Lodge Almoner. Brother Pritchard was conducted to the Wardens to demonstrate that he had understood, and Bro Tunnicliffe invested him with the Apron. (The ends of the cords wherewith the Apron is tied are symbolised by tassels on later aprons.) Bro Tunnicliffe spoke of the history and symbolism of the lambskin while Bro Gambles deftly fastened it around Bro Pritchard's waist.

Thus invested, Bro Pritchard was escorted to the Northest Corner of the Lodge, where Bro David Turner (tallest of the Technical singers - (maybe this is what helps to reach the high notes) - stood on the dais to address Bro Pritchard. I was getting a strained neck by this time. The Inner Guard, Bro Paul Draper pointed out the Warrant of the Lodge and presented a Book of Contitutions and the Bylaws, after which Bro Ed Thompson (another giant) beautifully presented the Working Tools, pointing out their moral application, with the caveat that a Freemason should never rest without a prayer to the GAOTU.

The Chaplain, Bro Bill Turner-Bone delivered the ancient charge with his usual clear diction. He too is over six foot high. I am not accusing the WM of sizeism, of course, but with my increasing deafness it seemed that much of the ceremony was going over my head. Some of the Brethren are mumblers, too, which doesn't help.

The Q&As were passed between the WM and the Wardens (what the Candidate needs to know for the next degree - though it seems to me he has very little chance of understanding what it all means when he's just been through his initiation ceremony.) Bro Pritchard retired to restore himself to his smart suit, and in the interim, reports were given by the Charity Steward, the Almoner, the Chapter Rep, the Mentor (sent by email - well done that man), the Membership Officer (there's a Candidate in the offing), and from the Lodge of Instruction Preceptor (start time moved forward to 6.00.)

A knock at the door announced Bro Pritchard's return. Whoops! he was without an apron. Fortunately there was a spare (with a clasp) by the door, so Bro Jordan saluted the WM properly garbed, and the ADC, W Bro Dave Green escorted him to a seat.

Greetings were given from the two officers of UGLE and from the goodly number of Provincial Officers. W Bro Malcolm Forbes gave greetings as WM of the Humber Lodge 57 and the de la Pole Lodge 1605. I extended greetings as a member of the Ridings Tablers' Lodge 9586.

The Lodge was closed, but I managed to persuade Bro Malolm Hussain-Gambles, with his staff of office, to stand on one side of Bro Pritchard, with the Worshipful Master on the other. "Hey, they make me feel small," said W Bro Ash. "Now you know how I feel all the time," I told him.

W Bro Ian Parkinson proposed the toast to the Candidate at the Festive Board, citing him as a pleasant and personable young man, who enjoys his holidays abroad, "He will mix in well with the Brethren," Ian opined.

The Entered Apprentice Song was interrupted by the explanation of the Masonic Chain. Personally, I do not like to spoil a song with an interruption in the middle, and the explanation of the Chain, although brilliantly delivered, is marred by the circumstances. 

Brother Pritchard's response was well considered and audibly delivered. I regret I couldn't hear one of the Warden's toasts; when speaking, it is important to try to reach the corners of the room - I'm not the only Brother with hearing aids.

W Bro Malcolm Forbes responded with laudible brevity to the Visitors' toast, mentioning the importance of visiting elsewhere.

The bonus ball passed me by, and my raffle tickets failed to get anywhere close to the numbers drawn, but £145 was raised for Charity. The Daniels-Turner Brothers sang the visitor's song and "Happy to meet again" at the end of the evening. Congratulations to all for a splendid ceremony.

Eddie Wildman. Organist

 

 

Thursday 19th February 2026:

St Michael Chapter Installation

See the Chapter blog for the St Michael Chapter Installation.

 

 

 

Monday 16th February 2026:

Holderness Lodge 3563 initiates a new Candidate

by Eddie Wildman

Since I joined Freemasonry forty years ago the numbers attending Lodge meetings have declined dramatically, but the Craft has not always had large numbers attending - in the early years of Freemasonry, Lodge meetings were held in taverns, often round a table - huge numbers were not expected, nor feasible. This is not the place to talk of the Victorian Surge when the Grand Master was the Prince Regent (later George IV) or of Masonry between the wars, but the fact that Lodges are becoming smaller (and fewer) is perhaps, in the long view, not nearly as alarming as some would have it. Those that attend nowadays on a regular basis are just as important as the scores that visited in past years. I am a believer in quality, not quantity.

Indeed, there was over a score at the Holderness Lodge meeting. We had a visitor from Lincolnshire and another from Oxfordshire to see the initiation of Mr Craig Hughes. The WM, W Bro Danny Betts opened the Lodge efficiently and the Junior Warden, W Bro Steve Cox, AsstPGM was saluted with five; as a Grand Lodge Officer I was saluted with three, under the strict direction of W Bro Ben Kelly, DC. The minutes were signed and the Tyler, W Bro James Ashby-Kelly knocked on the door to announce to the Brethren that there was a Candidate waiting to be introduced to the hidden mysteries of the Craft.

Mr Craig Hughes was conducted through the ceremony by Bro James Anderson, the Junior Deacon, to the tune "Lux Benigna" by Hull-born John Bacchus Dykes, composer of the Closing Hymn; the Worshipful Master Obligated the Candidate and explained the Three Great Lights in Freemasonry, and the Lesser Lights were described by Brother Ian Cutts (the first ritual he'd ever delivered - it was word-perfect.)

I explained the sign, the handshake and the word that goes with it to Brother Hughes, who proved his immediate grasp of these when communicating them to the Junior Warden (W Bro Cox) and the Senior Warden, Bro Lee Atkinson. Lee fluently invested him with the plain white apron of an Entered Apprentice, and Bro Hughes was conducted to the North-east Corner of the Lodge, where Worshipful Brother Tyson, Lecture Master, delivered the address. The Inner Guard, W Bro Sharpless pointed out the Warrant under which the Lodge operates, giving Bro Hughes the Book of Constitution and the Bylaws. W Bro Danial Marshall, Senior Deacon, lucidly explained the working tools and W Bro Darren Wiseman delivered the Ancient Charge in such a friendly manner that I would have liked to hear it all over again.

Frequent visitors to this website will be aware that generally at the end of a ceremony there is a Question and Answer exchange between the Master and the Wardens to give the Candidate some insight into what would be expected of him. This was the case on this occasion, after which Bro Hughes retired to put on his dark suit,

Reports followed. W Bro Stan Aylott of Holderness spoke of the tragic death of three people in a swimming incident off the coast of Withernsea and the hope of a special memorial being created. Favourable opinions were expressed and developed and it was agreed to take the matter further, particularly as this Lodge had originally met in Withernsea, not far from where the tragedy occurred. Watch this space.

Brother Hughes was readmitted, and the Worshipful Master closed the Lodge with his customary efficiency, returning for a photograph with (L to R) Bro Anderson and Bro Hughes.

The Festive Board was interesting; apparently Oxfordshire Masons do things differently - Bro Hughes' proposer, W Bro Pip Watts toasted the Candidate as an active man keen on social activities with great practical skills. The Entered Apprentice Song was sung (in several keys at the same time, and W Bro Cox produced some notes that have never before been heard from a human throat - a unique skill.) Craig's response was brief but sincere - he was obviously enjoying himself and will make a valuable addition to the Holderness Lodge. W Bro Wayne Evens, WM of the Lodge of Established Order 9822 dilated on visiting as being the lifeblood of Masonry.

Well entertained, in good company and beautifully fed, I left the Lodge with W Bro Bob Wallace who drove me home (thanks, Bob, it was miserable weather) and I managed to complete this report before putting on my pyjamas.

 Eddie Wildman, Guest Organist

 

Saturday 14th February 2026:

Lord Bolton Initiation

by Eddie Wildman

I had thought that the postman would be exhausted carrying lots of Valentine cards to my door this morning, but this was not the case, he walked straight by. I steeled myself against this minor disappointment and carried on with my domestic duties, part of which was clearing out the airing cupboard so the plumber (booked a fortnight ago) could check out the hot water system. He didn't turn up. I was not too pleased, waiting in for him for hours on the one nice day we've had in months. Then my luck changed - John Stebbings rang to say he'd pick me up for the Loird Bolton Lodge meeting. It's always good to travel with John - he generally has a scurrilous tale or two to tell.

We arrived at Beverley Road early, and met old friends. A quick G&T was a welcome restorative. This was the Lord Bolton Lodge's first regular meeting following the installation, and there was a Candidate - Mr Martin Tomkins (no relation to the Secretary W Bro Martin Tompkins, spelt with a pee.)

The Worshipful Master W Bro Colin Bird opened the Lodge with cool efficiency. There were some stand-in officers - W Bro Alan Shand stood in as Junior Warden, W Bro Stebbings stood in as Tyler, but the opening was slick, as was the following successful triple ballot  (two candidates for membership and a joining member.)

Congratulations to all those involved in the initiation of Martin Tomkins; it was a good ceremony. Leading him, the JD, Bro Owen Brookes not only guided the Candidate through his paces, but signalled where to turn and when to stop. The WM recited the Obligation with his customary authority, and explained the great and lesser Lights in Freemasonry. Bro Carl Eden, ADC, communicated the signs whereby Entered Apprentices are known to each other, and Brother Tomkins when conducted to the Junior and Senior Wardens (W Bros Alan Shand and Gerry Locke) executed the signs and grip with military precision. W Bro Locke invested him with the white apron of an Entered Apprentice, and the WM warned that it should never be worn should its wearer be at variance with another Brother.

I had the privilege of delivering the address at the Northeast Corner of the Lodge - the symbolic foundation of a Brother's Masonic journey. W Bro Tompkins Withapee pointed out the Warrant and Book of Constitutions, the IPM W Bro Gwatkin explained the Working Tools magnificently and the Chaplain, W Bro Andrew Hoggard read the Ancient Charge.

Bro Tomkins retired after the Q&A exchange explaining the necessaries for moving into the next degree, and restored himself to his suit. During this time, reports were given, including a few words from the Lodge Support Officer, W Bro Neil Armstrong of the Kingston Lodge 1010. Bro Tomkins returned and the WM closed the Lodge efficaciously. I managed to take a snapshot of W Bro Colin Bird with his Master's Collar, Entered Apprentice Martin Tomkins with his white apron, and the Junior Deacon Bro Owen Brookes with his staff and collar of office - a dove bearing an olive branch - before we all went downstairs for dinner (Luke Pyrah's steak pie - a joy to eat.)

The toast to the Candidate was given by his proposer, W Bro Robert Gwatkin, speaking of their military connections and the cameraderie that Freemasonry has to offer. Bro Tomkins responded briefly and well. and the Brethren gave an atonal rendition of the Entered Apprentice Song.  My increasing deafness made it difficult to hear some of them from the piano; those notes I did hear suggested that the Brethren couldn't hear me either. But the conversation at the Festive Board was convivial, with Neil Armstrong (Kingston) and Anthony Cadle (Old Hymerian) having stories to tell. Always looking on the positive side, Neil told me he'd received exactly twice the number of Valentine cards as I had.

Back home (thanks John) it wasn't too late, so I could put together this report before going to bed. It had been a good evening - and Lord Bolton Lodge, (founded 1907) is moving steadily forwards - well done Lodge 3263!

Neil Armstrong's report can be found on the Kingston website.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

 

 

Friday 13th February 2026:

de la Pole Lodge 1605

by Eddie Wildman

I should have been elsewhere this evening, but the ticket sales fell through; I'd already given tentative apologies to the Lodge, but finding I was now available, decided to turn up, as I have for many years. "Ah, we're a poor second choice, then," quipped the WM, W Bro Malcolm Forbes, a little unkindly, I thought, especially as Hull were playing Chelsea this evening and I'd been tempted to stay at home and listen to the match on the radio.

The Lodge was poorly attended - I brought the numbers up to thirteen, but was not staying for the meal afterwards. The WM was giving a talk  entitled "The Worshipful Master's personal journey in Freemasonry beyond the Craft". However, there was some swapping of collars and seats as the Brethren shuffled to fill the various offices. We were a tad late starting, but at the appropriate time, after the minutes had been approved and signed, Malcolm launched into his forty-minute list of the different Orders of which he was a member, beginning with the Chapter and its four-week qualification for entry from the Craft, a necessary advancement in one's Masonic journey. He mentioned the Mark as a friendly and dramatic degree, with its administration in London's Mark Masonic Hall and continued with the Royal Ark Mariners attached to Mark, which refers to the Beginning and the relationship between God and Man.

His text was based on "Beyond the Craft" by Keith Jackson and he spoke little of the focus of the various degrees, moving swiftly on to KT and the Knights of Malta, and mentioned that while the Rose Croix was originally a Christian Order, it had recently become more ecumenical. He mentioned the Red Cross of Constantine, with its historical reference to the Roman Emperor's conversion to Christianity, the Royal and Select Masters and the Allied Masonic Degrees. The Order of the Secret Monitor (I am assured the members do not sneak around at night filling inkwells) and the Order of the Scarlet Cord were touched on - but I was having some trouble keeping all these Orders seperate in my head, especially when KTP, SRIA  Thomas of Acon, Athelstan and Ye Ancient Order of Noble Corks were brought into play.

Reports followed. The WM as Almoner added further minutes to his talk.

The Senior Warden, Bro John Holmes delivered a nugget suggesting how we should focus our attitudes for the way forward. "Ducks Quack, Eagles Soar" is available on the Solomon website.

Greetings were extended. I had played "So Mote It Be" three times, the last time at the end of the Closing Ode. 

Back home before the match ended, I checked the score. We didn't win.

Eddie Wildman

 

 

Thursday 12th February 2026:

Old Hymerians Lodge Proclamation

by Eddie Wildman

Worshipful Brother Malcolm Cuthbert kindly agreed to remain for another year in the Worshipful Master's Chair of the Old Hymerians' Lodge 6885 and opened the 678th meeting of that illustrious fraternity with his usual calm demeanour. I had agreed to play the organ for the occasion - W Bro Graham Hunter, the Lodge Organist was to sing the Anthem in the Lodge Room (he has a fine voice) but succumbed to the dreaded lurgie at the last minute and was unable to attend. The place was well attended - W Bro Malcolm Forbes gave greetings as WM of both Humber and Andrew Marvell Lodges and stood while W Bro Ian Fuller gave greetings from the de la Pole Lodge 1605.

It was an illustrious gathering: the Past Provincial Grand Master, Jeffrey Gillyon was in the Senior Warden's Chair, and he was saluted before a knock at the door announced the attendance of W Bro Lee Atkinson of the Provincial Grand Stewards' Lodge, DC for the Representative of the Assistant Provincial Master in Charge, W Bro John Murphy PPSGW.

The minutes of the 686th meeting were approved and confirmed, and W Bro Cadle, Installing DC, escorted eminent Brethren to the Principal Offices and W Bro Cuthbert was proclaimed as WM. All other offices now being vacant, those Brethren below the rank of an Installed Master perambulated round the Lodge, and the Working Tools of the 1° were presented before the WM appointed his Officers for the ensuing year. As W Bro Cuthbert remained in post, the address to the Master was not given, but W Bro Cadle gave the address to the Wardens and the Lodge Secretary, W Bro Robin Alden addressed the Brethren.

The Worshipful Master thanked both the outgoing and incoming teams. W Bro Murphy presented a Festival Jewel to W Bro Cadle and a Grand Lodge Certificate to Bro Jo Holden. Reports followed, plus apologies from those absent (the Almoner remarked that "none of us know what is round the corner") and greetings were given from the various Lodges present.

W Bro Andrew Crozier sang the Anthem "Hail Masonry Divine" - a good performance, after which the WM closed the Lodge in due form.

The munificence of the festive board ensured none of the Brethren retired from the table any lighter. John Murphy spoke in response to the fifth toast, mentioning the health turmoil which the RWPGM had undergone, the importance of the Royal Arch degree, and the Festival, the latter at some length. W Bro Greendale proposed the toast to the WM to the approval of the Brethren: "In the interests of brevity I give the toast."

W Bro Crozier gave a sterling performance of the Worshipful Master's Song after which W Bro Michael de Vere Roberts toasted the outgoing team. W Bro Malcolm Grange, WM of the Wyke Millennium Lodge 9696 responded to the toast to the visitors. The Tyler's toast was rendered by W Bro David Cadle and the Parting Toast by the Senior Warden, Bro Simon Copeman.

There was a happy atmosphere throughout the evening, and it was good to see so many smiling faces.

[Pictured: W Bros Jeff Gillyon, JW; John Murphy, Representative; Malcolm Cuthbert, WM; and Bros Lee Atkinson, DC; and Bro Simon Copeman, SW. W Bro Crozier is singing.] Malcolm Forbes' report of this meeting can be found on the Andrew Marvell New Blog Page.

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

Wednesday 11th February 2026:

Minerva Lodge Raises another Master Mason

by Eddie Wildman

The members of Minerva Lodge 250 could not congregate as usual round the bar as an outside let did not finish until six o' clock; Brethren went straight upstairs to change into their regalia. I'd left my regalia at Dagger Lane the night before, my case was on the organ stool, so I unhurredly sorted out my music and then went down for a G & T, by which time the outside letters were gone.

The WM, W Bro Richard Marshall started on time; the Opening Ode was sung and the opening of the Lodge was smoothly managed. The Lodge was raised seamlessly to the 2° and Fellowcraft Mason Brother Ivor Clement answered the questions leading to the next stage. It is always heartening when a Brother has obviously learnt his work - it not only displays his keenness to progress, but focusses his mind on what he has already been through. Bro Clement was well in command of his ritual. 

Bro Clement retired to prepare himself. The Lodge was raised to the 3°, and Bro Clement was readmitted.

I'll not write about the ceremony; not from an obscure wish to keep secrets (in this day and age anyone with determination could find the ritual online) but a recognition that the ceremony is personal to the Candidate, and those who have not yet taken their third degrees will appreciate the ceremony more when they experience it first hand. Bro Clement's proposer, Bro Evaldas Korsakas, the Inner Guard, had given Bro Clement no clue what to expect, and he challenged Bro Clement at the door of the Lodge before allowing him to gain entry. The Deacons, Bros Milner and Sutherby, conducted Bro Clement through the ceremony.

Those who have experienced the 3° will be pleased to know that all the ritual was splendidly delivered. W Bros Swales and Hartley were responsible for the Retrospect (possibly the most meaningful ritual in the canon), W Bro Chris Brown gave the signs and words with great dignity and Brother Dave Fee expounded the Traditional History magnificently. Bro Peter Willoughby pointed out the essential features of the Tracing Board and gave the symbolic interpretation of the Working Tools of a Master Mason. The distinctive apron, blue trimmed with three light blue rosettes, was presented by the Senior Warden, Bro Simon Tomkins. The visitors (one from Bridlington, one from London) remarked on the unique quality of the ancient ritual and the pleasure they's taken in witnessing it. Brother Clement retired to restore himself and the Lodge was lowered with the full closing ritual back down to the first degree.

There was a successful ballot for a new member; the WM announced that he would be initiated at a future meeting. The Lodge was then closed in due form.

I was able to take a snapshot of  Bro Ivor and the Master before everyone hurried downstairs for an Italian-based meal. W Bro Kirby from Sykes Lodge 1040 (as well as a Lodge in London) was very complimentary in his response to the visitor's toast.

It had been a pleasant evening, with good ritual, good food with good friends and a convivial atmosphere. Who could ask for more?

Eddie Wildman, Organist

 

 

 

Tuesday 10th February 2026:

First Meeting in the Year 

by Matthew Barber

 

I had some mixed emotions going into Humber 57’s first regular meeting of the year. I was mostly excited to get back to the Lodge after missing December’s meeting and this being the first year where Humber no longer meets in January. But I had some trepidation for I was delivering - more on that later.

A friend of mine from Semper Paratus 10076 was visiting Humber so I collected him from Cottingham and we made our way to Dagger Lane. We saw W Bros Eddie Wildman and Craig Maurier in Zebedee's car park and walked into the Lodge together. After settling in and getting into our regalia, we made our way upstairs. There were only twenty people in the Lodge Room with three visitors, but a warm atmosphere of chatter and friendship could be felt.

W Bro Trevor Whitfield processed WM Malcolm Forbes into the Lodge Room and the meeting began in due form. After his year in the Chair, it was wonderful to have W Bro Eddie back on the organ, it was greatly missed over the past twelve months. Officers not present at the installation were invested with their collars of office, W Bro Ian Syddall as Assistant Secretary, W Bro Trevor Whitfield as Director of Ceremonies, myself as Junior Deacon and Bro Jamie Knott (still in his work gear after an unexpected late finish) as Steward.

After this, it was the part I had been worrying about, delivering a eulogy for my amazing Dad Mike Barber (pictured wearing his Fellowcraft apron) who sadly passed away before Christmas. Tears came to my eyes more times than when I practiced at home; but with some much needed and kind words of support from W Bro Trevor Whitfield in front of me: “take your time”, I managed to finish it and hopefully made Dad proud. A copy can be found on the celebrations page. WM Malcolm Forbes then led us in a moment of silence. 

The next item was to receive a festival update from W Bro Jimmy Kerr (pictured.) It was a wonderful example of how the MCF has helped people in our own Province and to remind the Brethren that the MCF is there for all of us. Yorkshire North and East Ridings having donated some  £1.7 million during the last festival, have received nearly three million back in support measures for Yorkshire North and East Ridings. A pair of festival cufflinks were kindly donated to the raffle and Bro Craig Morrison informed the Brethren that he would be taking part in the upcoming sky dive. He then suggested that Bro Craig Fish and myself join him, however I think Craig and I would agree that our support would be much better on solid ground!

The meeting finished in good time and we made our way downstairs for the festive board. Having being in the Junior Warden's Chair for the past year, it was nice to have my pick of the seats again and I had the opportunity to sit with my friend from Semper Paratus and speak with some Brethren that I haven’t seen or had chance to speak to for some time. The raffle raised £80 and the atmosphere downstairs was wonderful.

Bro Matt Barber, Junior Deacon.

 

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, and the Tyler makes sure the Candidate is properly prepared.

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 the Candidate's 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 soon 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 out 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.Bro Langley (wearing the Steward's collar) is shown with the WM, W Bro Fox, wearing the Master's Square.

Seven of us dined enjoyed Tereza's lovely sausage soup followed by chicken curry and rice. I felt considerably fatter when I arrived home, courtesy of RTL. Congratulations, Beverlonian - it was a super ceremony and Brother Langley is now a Fellowcraft Freemason!

Next month should be another 2° - Brother Langley junior. Please come along and support!

Eddie Wildman, guest organist

 

 

 

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.