25/03/2026
A Bright Future Ahead
On the evening of Tuesday 24th March 2026, the brethren of West Craven Lodge No. 7354 acknowledged the summons of the Worshipful Master, W Bro Adrian Lilley PPGReg, to attend their Installation Meeting held at the Masonic Hall, Barnoldswick. The meeting was very well attended indeed, demonstrating the respect and support held for the Worshipful Master and the Office he occupies.
The Lodge was honoured to welcome W Bro Ian N. E. Lewis PSGD, Deputy Provincial Grand Master for the Province of Yorkshire West Riding, accompanied by Assistant Director of Ceremonies W Bro Terry Payne, together with representation from COPPS. Their presence added both distinction to the occasion and a reassuring sense that proceedings would be conducted exactly as intended, particularly during a year in which the Festival remains a central focus across the Province.
WM W Bro Lilley proceeded to install W Bro Ashley St John-Claire into the Chair of King Solomon, which he did with sincerity and flair. He was superbly supported by the officers and brethren of West Craven Lodge, delivering an Installation that was a credit to all who took part—and one that unfolded with commendable precision throughout.
Special mention must be made to those brethren who presented the Working Tools, each doing so with confidence and clarity, and to W Bro David Hawkins PPGSwdB for his very entertaining organ performance, which added greatly to the atmosphere of the evening.
The first order of business for the newly installed Worshipful Master was to present a Past Master’s Jewel to W Bro Lilley. This was presented by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master with sincerity and gratitude on behalf of the members of West Craven Lodge. A hip flask, engraved with the Tyler’s Toast, was also presented—whether purely commemorative or a subtle nod towards future duties was left for the brethren to quietly consider.
On this occasion, the Lodge was also pleased to present a cheque for £1,500 in aid of the Festival to the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, a generous contribution that reflects great credit on the brethren of West Craven Lodge and their continued commitment to Provincial charitable efforts.
Encouragingly, the Lodge Membership Officer, W Bro Lilley, reported that several candidates are currently awaiting initiation. This is a most positive sign and bodes well for the continued strength and development of the Lodge under the new Worshipful Master, ensuring both its future and its ability to continue supporting wider Masonic causes.
The Festive Board proved equally enjoyable, with the brethren of West Craven going above and beyond in their hospitality. Visitors had travelled from as far afield as Bristol, and all were warmly received and well looked after. Good food, hearty laughter, and lively conversation ensured the evening continued in excellent spirit. A personal address from the newly installed Worshipful Master, W Bro St John-Claire, was a particularly thoughtful and well-received touch, reflecting both pride in the Lodge and a clear commitment to the year ahead.
As the evening gathered pace, a representation from the Widows Sons announced a further presentation to the newly installed Master—his Widows Sons patches—bringing to a close what had already been a notably full and memorable day for W Bro Ashley.
The raffle, held in aid of the Festival, raised a commendable sum, once again reflecting the generosity of both the brethren of West Craven Lodge and their visitors.
All in all, an excellent evening of Freemasonry—well organised, well delivered, and thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance. With strong support, clear enthusiasm, and candidates waiting in the wings, West Craven Lodge can look forward with confidence to a very bright future ahead, both within the Lodge and in its ongoing contribution to the wider aims of the Province.
Report and photos curtedy of COPPS
If you would like to learn more about Freemasonry in Barnoldswick or joining West Craven Lodge, please email the lodge Secretary and Membership Officer - [email protected]
