Dorset Freemasonry

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Dorset Freemasonry

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We are a unique members’ organisation that has thrived for over 300 years. If you use our images please acknowledge Dorset Freemasonry

WHAT WE AIM FOR (VISION)
To attract those from all backgrounds and walks of life, enabling them to develop into more thoughtful and confident people. To inspire and challenge them to practise the core values we celebrate – Integrity, Friendship, Respect, Charity – in their private and public lives. To cement our reputation as a force for good in our communities and society at large and as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join. HOW WE WILL ACHIEVE THIS (MISSION)
Over the next 7 years, we will enhance our reputation as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join and broaden our membership across all age groups. OUR VALUES

Integrity
Freemasons are focused on building themselves as people of integrity and membership provides the structure to help achieve that goal. Friendship
Freemasonry provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which will last for life. Respect
Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion or any other perceived differences that can divide us as a society. Service
Whether participating in events, fundraising for a charitable cause or volunteering for public or community organisations, service is at the very heart of Freemasonry. Our members make valuable contributions by donating time, resources and skills.

25/10/2026

October’s meeting of Durnovarian Lodge No. 8726 was special, marking the start of the lodge’s 50th year.

The evening's highlight was the meal. The lodge kept things relaxed and informal with a white table, so our members' wives and partners could join us to celebrate. It was a wonderful way to begin a year of festivities and a chance for members to thank their wives and partners for the support they give the lodge.

This was also Jonathan's final meeting as Master of the lodge. The members would like to thank him for his year leading us, during which new members joined and progressed under his guidance.

Durnovarian Lodge No. 8726 meets in Dorchester on the first Thursday of the month. For more information, contact [email protected]

Grateful thanks to Will Monaghan

23/10/2026

It’s been a special few days for the Sandall brothers

At the Provincial AGM, both Brothers were promoted to Provincial Grand Rank, an honour recognising service to Freemasonry. Dave was appointed Active Senior Grand Warden, and Colin was appointed Provincial Communications Officer for the Craft.

On Friday evening, Colin had the privilege of installing Dave as head of his lodge, St. Edward the Martyr Royal Ark Mariner Lodge No. 1095 in Shaftesbury.

Congratulations to both Brothers on a well-deserved few days.

Grateful thanks to Will Monaghan

22/10/2026

Amphibious Chapter

Banners and Ensigns are an extremely decorative and colourful feature of a Royal Arch Chapter, but who knows what they represent?

Last night at Amphibious Chapter the members of the Chapter gave an informative presentation of their meaning and significance to our order.

This was followed by the three principals delivering the Historical Lecture to complete an evening of daily advancement.

The meeting finished with Companion Adrian Witt presenting a cheque for £500 he had raised by growing his, now legendary, ‘tash.

With two new members also confirmed, an excellent night!

The whole evening was rounded off with a very enjoyable meal where more donations were made to the ‘tash fund. These combined with the raffle gave a grand total of over £600 raised for this years charity Adams Hoofing Hut.

Grateful thanks to David Thornton.

20/10/2026

At the October meeting, Brian Tritton, with the assistance of members of the Chapter, presented an explanation of the Twelve Banners.

Chapter rooms look very different to Craft Lodge rooms; the most striking difference, is the addition of 12 banners, each depicting a different tribe, and each with its own story.

Brian Tritton, entertained and educated the members of The Chapter of Amity, Dorset's oldest Royal Arch Chapter, with an explanation of these banners.

Afterwards, the members enjoyed an excellent roast beef meal, with a raffle whose proceeds went to Teddies for Loving Care, an excellent initiative that provides teddies to children in hospital, or otherwise in need of comfort.

Photographed is Brian Tritton.

The Chapter of Amity meets in Poole on a Monday. For more information contact [email protected]

18/10/2026

100km Completed! Huge Thanks & Fundraising Update.

On Sunday 11th October, Digby of Northbourne Lodge took on the 100km cycle challenge across the New Forest.

His legs certainly felt every single kilometre towards the end, but the thought of why he was doing it kept the wheels turning right to the finish line.

A heartfelt, enormous thank you to everyone who sent messages of encouragement, checked in, and donated. The kindness and generosity shown in support of Macmillan Caring Locally has been truly overwhelming.

The funds raised will go straight to supporting the incredible team at the Macmillan Unit in Christchurch, helping provide specialist palliative care, dignity, and comfort to patients and their families right across our local community when they need it most.

Thanks to your wonderful generosity, we have already raised £890 + £177.50 from gift aid.

Making an amazing £1067.50

Grateful thanks to Digby

17/10/2026

At its recent meeting, the Lodge of Honour and Friendship No. 1266 met for their annual Farmers’ Night a celebration of their history as a farming lodge and an opportunity to raise a good amount of money for charity through their famous charity auction.

The evening began, in the lodge, with a fascinating talk from Mark Hinsley his research touched on some of the lodge traditions and, with the help of visitors and members, the Lodge were introduced to some of the farmers whose names mark the history of the lodge.

Our visitors were then welcomed into the dining room for the climax of the evening…

Donated produce was auctioned off items including alcohol, home baking, vegetables, and even a cuddly toy or three!

All had a great night, and over £1,000 was raised for the Provincial Discretionary Fund!

The Lodge of Honour and Friendship No.1266 meets in Blandford on the Tuesday on or closest before the full moon.

Grateful thanks to Andrew Helson and Wayne Gosden

11/10/2026

The head of Dorset Freemasons, Steve James, supported by guests from neighbouring areas, and over 300 Dorset members, gathered on Saturday 10th of October to hold their AGM.

At the meeting Steve James talked about the service given by members to local communities by way of supporting community initiatives and local charities. He thanked the members for their generosity both in giving up their time and in fundraising activities.

He then asked members to think about why they joined Freemasonry. An interesting question, and I would say that if you asked the same question to ten masons, you would get ten different answers. This demonstrates that as we draw membership from all walks of life and we mirror the rich diversity of our society.

The day culminated with a lovely meal and a chance to meet with old friends and make new ones, with everyone looking forward to the challenges of the new Masonic year.

David Thornton, Provincial Grand Communications Officer.

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04/10/2026

Members of the Dorset Masonic Sports and Social Association (DMSSA), along with a son and a guest, recently spent a sunny afternoon at Max Events taking part in four activities over four hours. They started with refreshments to build up stamina for the "gruelling" time ahead.

There was plenty of banter and laughter as participants showed off their prowess or total ineptitude. Either way, it didn't matter, as fun was the aim of the day. Activities included r***e shooting, crossbow, axe throwing and archery, and we discovered a few hidden talents (one or two of them a little scary).

Many thanks to Phil Coxall and his team. We all had a good time, and the weather was kind.

Grateful thanks to Nigel House.

03/10/2026

Next Sunday, 11th October, Digby of Northbourne Lodge is taking on a 100km cycle through the New Forest to raise funds for the lodge's chosen charity, Macmillan Caring Locally, an invaluable local hospice in Christchurch (independent of the national Macmillan Cancer Support).

Read more and show your support here:

https://donate.givetap.co.uk/f/masonic-charitable-foundation/l6827a-northbourne-lodge/100k-cycle-oct-26

Address

Dorset Freemasonry, Freemasons Hall, 27 West Street
Blandford Forum
DT117AW

Website

https://dorset-freemasonry.org/

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