Durham Freemasons

25/10/2026

Last Chance to Join Us in Llandudno!

If you’ve been thinking about joining us, now’s the time to book. There’s still an opportunity to secure your place on this year’s Durham Freemasons Christmas Weekend Break in Llandudno, but don’t leave it too late!

11th to 14th December 2026

Whether you’re coming with your partner, family, friends, or simply fancy a few days away in good company, everyone is welcome.

It’s all about getting away in the run up to Christmas, relaxing, enjoying ourselves and sharing a little festive spirit together.

Full details are on the poster. Secure your place today!

https://buytickets.at/provincialgrandlodgeofdurham/2416651

Durham Freemasons Weekend Break 2026 – Hydro Hotel, Fri 11 Dec 2026 - Mon 14 Dec 2026 - Join us for Durham Freemasons Weekend Break at the recently refurbished Hydro Hotel, Llandudno. Enjoy four days and three nights away with good company, great food, and the chance to experience the festive atmo...

24/10/2026

Freemasonry, Friendship and a Pint at Gambrinus Lodge

Good Freemasonry, great company and a pint of real ale. Gambrinus Lodge certainly knows how to make the most of a Saturday.

Assistant Head of Durham Freemasons Martin Rankin joined members and visitors at Gambrinus Lodge No. 10054 in Chester le Street for one of its popular Saturday meetings. Visitors travelled from across the Province and further afield, including a contingent from Ireland, to enjoy the Freemasonry, friendship and festivities.

With a shared interest in real ale at the heart of the Lodge’s character, there was time to catch up over a light lunch and perhaps enjoy a pint or two. Appropriately, the Lodge takes its name from Gambrinus, the legendary European figure associated with b**r, brewing and good cheer.

Special interest Lodges are an increasingly popular part of Freemasonry, bringing together members with interests beyond the Lodge room. Across Durham these include Spirit of Rugby Lodge, Anglers Lodge, Sportsman’s Lodge and the Scouting based Indaba and Quest Lodges, alongside Gambrinus and its passion for real ale.

At the heart of the meeting was an excellent Second Degree ceremony, during which Bro Harjeet Bassi was Passed from Entered Apprentice to Fellow Craft, marking the next important step in his journey in Freemasonry.

The Lodge also marked the occasion with a significant contribution to the Durham 2032 Festival, presenting Martin with a cheque for £2,032 towards the Festival fundraising total.

Martin congratulated Harjeet on his Passing, thanked the Lodge for its generous contribution and thanked the members of Gambrinus for their warm welcome and hospitality.

Fancy trying something different? Pay a visit to Gambrinus or discover one of Durham’s other special interest Lodges. Visit Find a Lodge to see where and when our Lodges meet and find your next visit:

https://durhamfreemasons.org/lodges/

Don’t Wait To Be Asked. Get out, visit and discover more of Freemasonry across Durham.

23/10/2026

A CENTENARY CELEBRATION AT BEDE COLLEGE LODGE No. 4840

In a wonderful coincidence, exactly 100 people gathered to celebrate the centenary of Bede College Lodge No. 4840, making this landmark occasion even more memorable.

A highlight of the celebrations was the presentation of the Lodge’s Centenary Warrant. The Head of Durham Freemasons, John Watts, who brought along a deputation of Provincial Officers, examined the warrant before it was read aloud by the Provincial Secretary, Richard Scott. John then formally presented it to the Worshipful Master Barry Nicholson, marking a significant moment in the Lodge’s history.

The Worshipful Master then presented the Lodge with a beautiful apron cushion, which was dedicated by the Provincial Chaplain, WBro Julian Ward.

In a thoughtful address reflecting on the Lodge’s history and the Brethren who have shaped its journey, the Worshipful Master presented an original Founders’ Jewel to the Lodge’s longest-serving Brother. This poignant gesture recognised the dedication and commitment of those who have helped preserve the Lodge’s traditions throughout its first century.

Looking to the future, the Worshipful Master figuratively entrusted the next hundred years to the younger Brethren, challenging them to carry forward the values, traditions and spirit of Bede College Lodge for generations to come.

Founded in 1926, the Lodge has a rich history rooted in Bede College and the wider Durham community. Its founders included prominent figures from the College and beyond, reflecting the connections and friendships upon which the Lodge was established.

Demonstrating that its commitment to the community remains as strong as ever, the Lodge also donated the incredible sum of £4,840 to the Durham 2032 Festival. This generous contribution was a fitting way to mark its centenary, reflecting the spirit of giving and service that continues to underpin Freemasonry today.

A centenary is about more than celebrating the past. It is an opportunity to honour those who laid the foundations, recognise those who continue the work today and look forward with confidence to the next chapter.

Congratulations to the Worshipful Master, the Officers and to the Brethren of Bede College Lodge No. 4840 on reaching this remarkable milestone.

One hundred years of history, exactly 100 people gathered to celebrate, £4,840 given to support the Durham 2032 Festival, and a new generation ready to carry the tradition forward for the next century.

20/10/2026

A great story of community engagement and charitable service.

💛 Local advice. Earlier support. Better opportunities.

Thanks to a £60,000 grant on behalf of , -citizens-advice will bring practical help to families facing child poverty, in places they already know and use.

The new Community Connectors service aims to support 1,350 people over two years, helping families navigate financial challenges and access the support they’re entitled to.

🔗 Find out more here: https://freemasonscharity.org.uk/2026/10/60000-freemasons-grant-brings-advice-closer-to-stockton-families-facing-child-poverty/

18/10/2026

50 Years of Freemasonry for Robin Middleton.

The regular meeting of Phoenix Lodge No. 94 at Queen Street East, Sunderland, on Wednesday 7th October became a very special occasion as WBro Robin Middleton celebrated 50 years as a Freemason.

John Watts, Head of Durham Freemasons, presented Robin's 50 Year Certificate, with Assistant Head Paul Swansbury and former Heads of Durham Freemasons Eric Heaviside and United Grand Lodge of England Assistant Grand Master John Thompson also in attendance to share the celebration.

Robin joined Phoenix Lodge in 2019 after his mother Lodge, Peace & Unity Lodge No. 6312, surrendered its warrant. Nine members moved to Phoenix together, continuing friendships built over many years.

During his 50 years, Robin has certainly played his part. He served as Worshipful Master in 1983 and again in 2015 and spent an impressive 40 years as Charity Steward and Benevolent Representative. As Robin explains, nobody else wanted the jobs, and he was happy to continue!

His service earned him Provincial honours, first as Past Provincial Grand Superintendent of Works and later as Past Provincial Junior Grand Warden. In 2018 he received Grand Rank as PAGADC, one of the final appointments made by Past Provincial Grand Master Eric Heaviside, something which meant a great deal to Robin.

Today he continues to serve as Phoenix Lodge Almoner and Durham Freemasons Charity Representative, and as a Visiting Support Officer for Lodge Stewart No. 4261 and Nautilus Lodge No. 4259.

Robin has also enjoyed a long Royal Arch journey. He was First Principal of St Johns Chapter No. 80 and, following its merger and eventual move to London, joined Chapter de Lambton No. 94, where he was installed as First Principal just two weeks ago.

His service extends to Queen Street itself. Robin is a Director of Queen Street Heritage Trust, with responsibility for fundraising, and a Director of Queen Street Masonic Temple Ltd.

And there is no sign of slowing down. For the past two years, Robin has been helping to create Phoenix Hall Lodge of Installed Masters No. 10094, where he hopes to serve as Senior Warden, Lecture Officer and, perhaps inevitably, Charity Steward, supporting the Durham 2032 Festival for The Freemasons' Charity with Platinum Status already firmly in his sights.

Among Robin’s fondest memories from his five decades are the stalls he ran at every Raby Gala, progressing from books and bric-a-brac to the famous “wine or water?” stall.

That provided a fitting moment of amusement during his presentation. Robin quickly reminded John Watts that at the final Raby Gala, John bought just one ticket and walked away with the star prize: a large bottle of ch*****ne!

After 50 years, Robin has accumulated plenty of stories, but more importantly, five decades of friendship, service and commitment to Freemasonry.

Congratulations, Robin, on a remarkable 50 years.

17/10/2026

Chris Bonas of The Anglers Lodge No. 10049 has raised £7,051 for Smile for Life Children’s Charity after canoeing through the remote wilderness of Canada’s Yukon Territory.

Chris joined eight volunteers and two guides for eight demanding days on the Yukon River, facing strong winds, heavy rain and freezing mornings. Together, the group raised more than £25,000 to support children and young people.

Chris said the challenge put into practice the values of charity, perseverance and helping others. He thanked everyone who supported him, including his fellow Brethren, for their donations and encouragement.

Well done Chris

16/10/2026

A confident pitch, a care home project and another community ready to benefit.

The Freemason Dragons had the pleasure of meeting the latest group of young people from The King’s Trust in Darlington as they pitched for financial support for their chosen community project at Grosvenor Park Care Home.

The team delivered a well-rehearsed pitch outlining their plans for a refurbishment project, including creating a special memory corner for residents.

Impressed by their ideas, the Dragons agreed to extend their financial support to expand the memory corner and include an event involving residents, bringing the young people and those living at the care home together as part of the team’s community work.

The session also welcomed two new Darlington Dragons, Grant Parker and Graeme Miller, alongside Ian Lewis, Deputy Head of Yorkshire West Riding Freemasons, who joined the session to see the Dragons’ Den approach first-hand as the initiative prepares to expand into Yorkshire West Riding.

The Dragons look forward to returning to Grosvenor Park Care Home and seeing the young people’s plans become reality.

Developing young people while making a difference in their communities.

Story adapted from a post by Deputy Head of Durham Freemasons Andrew Foster

15/10/2026

Tickets on sale now. Have you got yours?

Join us for a wonderful event filled with amazing entertainment and information on the works of our Masonic Charity

https://www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk/whats-on/Durham-Freemasons-Durham-2032-Festival-Launch-Event

Durham 2032 Festival Durham Freemasons The Freemasons' Charity

13/10/2026

A very special evening at St Aidan Lodge No. 4080, Blackhill, as John Watts, Head of Durham Freemasons, presented WBro Stan Fitches MBE with his 60 Year Certificate in Freemasonry.

John was delighted to be back at his Mother Lodge for the occasion, joined by two other Past Provincial Grand Masters of Durham, Eric Heaviside and John Thompson.

Stan was initiated into St Aidan Lodge in June 1966, joined the Royal Arch in December 1968, became Master of St Aidan Lodge in 1977 and Master of Lambton Lodge in 1986. He received his first Provincial honour in 1983 was promoted to Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden in 2022, appointed Past Grand Standard Bearer in the Royal Arch in 2011 and promoted to Past Assistant Grand Sojourner in 2024.

During the presentation, John reflected on the story told when Stan received his first 50 Year, but said that the last ten years had added another important chapter. Stan has continued to make a major contribution to St Aidan Lodge, Durham Freemasons Charity and Freemasonry across the Province.

That spirit of service has been a constant throughout Stan’s life. From his career with the British Red Cross, where he rose to national director and was recognised with an MBE, to his continued support for Freemasonry and charitable activity, Stan has always been willing to step forward and help.

Stan said: “Reaching 60 years is very special, but what matters most is still being able to contribute and help others. Freemasonry has given me a lifetime of friendship and many opportunities to serve.”

The evening was even more memorable as Lodge Master Julian Ward had the honour of passing his son, Sebastian, to the degree of Fellow Craft, while Sebastian’s brother, Dominic, the Lodge Inner Guard, watched on.

Julian said: “To celebrate Stan’s remarkable 60 years of service and also pass Sebastian, with Dominic there too, made it an evening our family will never forget.”

A wonderful evening celebrating a lifetime of service, friendship and commitment, while also marking the next generation continuing its own Masonic journey.

Congratulations, Stan, on a remarkable 60 years, and congratulations, Sebastian, on taking the next step in yours.

13/10/2026

£25,000 to help children across the North East benefit from specialist hydrotherapy.

Durham Freemasons Cycling Group’s Coast and Castles challenge has raised an incredible £25,000 for Heel and Toe Children’s Therapy Centre, supporting children with physical disabilities and complex needs.

Organisers Gavin Rowell and Steve Piercy returned to present the donation and see the difference their efforts will make. As Gavin said, seeing the joy on the children’s faces made three days of hills, wind and rain completely worthwhile.

Thank you to all 30 riders, the support team and everyone who donated.

Read the full story:
https://durhamfreemasons.org/news/durham-freemasons-raise-25000-to-support-specialist-hydrotherapy-for-children