
Amity Crest
The Lodge of Amity and Rossendale Forest No.283

~~ 2025 ~~
25 January 2025 - Installation Meeting
The Installation of WBro Graham Denis Grishakow PProvStB into the Chair of the Lodge.
† The WM WBro Alan Fielder PProvJGD requested the Brethren stand to order in respect of departed merit WBro David T Bury PProvGSuptWks who had passed away 24 December 2024, who lived respected and died regretted. †
23 Nov 1935 - 24 Dec 2024
WBro Dennis Heskett PProvGReg read a eulogy.
The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM WBro Alan Fielder PProvJGD.
The Secretary WBro Ken Lee confirmed receipt of the Dispensation to hold the meeting on Saturday the 25th of January 2025.
The Secretary also read the summons convening the meeting and the minutes of our last regular Lodge, having been circulated were approved and signed by the WM, SW and JW.
WBro Alan Kirwilliam PSGD PAProvGM the representative of the RWProvGM was admitted accompanied by the Northern Area Chairman, Grand Lodge Officers and the RWProvGM of Galloway, Scotland. Salutations were given accordingly.
For the purpose of Installation, the WIM, WBro Fielder, invited WBro Andy Shaw PProvSGD to occupy the SW's Chair, WBro Dennis Heskett PProvGReg to remain in the JW's chair, WBro Greg Casson PProvGSwdB to act as IG and WBro Ray Godwin PProvDepGDC to remain as Tyler.
The WIM then requested all Brethren below the rank of a FC to retire for a short time and the Lodge was opened in the 2nd Degree.
The main business of the meeting was to install WBro Graham Denis Grishakow PProvStB, WME into the Chair of this old Lodge. WBro M Rosney ProvSGD, DC, presented the WME to the WIM. WBro Grishakow reaffirmed his agreement to the Ancient Charges and Regulations before advanced to the pedestal to reaffirm his obligation. All Brethren below the rank of a MM retired for a short time and the Lodge was opened in the Third-Degree.
All those below the rank of an Installed Master retired from the Lodge, a Board of IM's was opened by ritual and the WME, WBro Graham D Grishakow was installed into the Chair of King Solomon by the WBro Alan Fielder, who performed the Ceremony of Installation in an excellent manner. The WT of an IM were presented and explained in an excellent manner by WBro C Harris a past member of the Lodge, now a member of Lodge St. Medans 1335 (SC). The Lodge was called off for a comfort break.
The Lodge was called on and WBro Rosney, DC, closed the B of IM by ritual. Work resumed in the various Degrees with:
- WBro Casson presented the WT's of a MM in the Third-Degree.
- Bro Jason Fitzgerald presented the WT's of a FC in the Second-Degree.
- WBro Casson presented the WT's of an EA in the First-Degree.
- The Warrants, Book of Constitutions, By-Laws, Banners, and Bible Fall were presented to the WM by WBro Alan Fielder, IPM
All performed their work in an excellent manner, to the usual high standard and with sincerity.
The WM was requested to appoint and invest his officers. Officers who were unable to attend the Installation will be invested at some future date.
The address to the WM as given by WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW, the address to the Wardens by WBro Stuart Rayton and the address to the Brethren by WBro Paul Aspinall PAGDC.
Reports were received from the WBro Rayton (Acting Almoner) in the absence of WBro Derek Smith PProvGReg, Almoner, WBro Heskett, CS presented the Charity Report, and WBro Ken Lee, District Representative gave his report.
The WM then presented WBro Kirwilliam with an envelope containing details of donations to various Charities. WBro Kirwilliam thanked the WM and Brethren for these most generous donations of £1000 to the 2026 Festival, £1000 to the ELMC, and £1,200 to local charities and good causes.
WBro Alan Kirwilliam then presented WBro Grishakow, WM with a commemorative certificate from the members of the Lodge.
Other business of the Lodge was transacted and in AOB WBro Donald Bright PProvJGW requested that everyone present to stay behind after the Lodge was closed for the usual photographs.
There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony, and an excellent and jovial Installation Festive Board followed.
The minutes recorded apologies from members, however, 17 members and 17 visitors were present from Lodges in the Provinces of East Lancs, West Lancs, and Galloway (Scotland).
Initiation of Mr Scott Smith
18th February 2025
The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB.
WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW, Tyler, acted as JW in the absence of WBro Dennis Heskett, PProvGReg, JW.
WBro Ray Godwin PProvDepGDC, LMO and Organist acted as Tyler.
The Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.
The WM invested WBro R Godwin PProvDepGDCas Organist. WBro Godwin then retired to attend to the candidate as acting Tyler. WBro R Harwood PProvGSwdB, Sec also retired to attend to the candidate.
The WM advised that the next business was to Initiate Mr Scott Smith. There was a report, and the Sec was readmitted. WBro Harwood confirmed that the candidate had signed the necessary paperwork and the required dues had been paid.
The IG announced an alarm, the candidate, Mr Smith was admitted, and the ceremony was conducted by the WM in an excellent manner, assisted by officers of the Lodge. Bro K Rawcliffe, JD conducted the candidate reassuringly, Bro B Manoliu, SD presented the Northeast Corner, and presented and explained the WTs in an excellent manner. The WM advised Bro Smith of the authority by which we act and proceeded to present him with the B of C and Lodge By-laws, before asking him to retire to restore himself to his own personal comfort.
There was a report and Bro Smith was readmitted and conducted to the centre of the Lodge. WBro K Lee, SW delivered the Charge after Initiation from the S; the delivery was outstanding, given with clarity and sincerity. The test questions and answers were demonstrated by the WM and his Wardens.
The WM welcomed Bro Smith into the Lodge and presented him with his Lodge EA certificate before inviting him to take his seat in Lodge.
Reports were received from the Almoner, CS and Area Rep.
Other business of the Lodge, communications and Accounts were transacted, and the Lodge was closed in due form and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.
Apologies were recorded in the minutes; however, 13 members and 3 visitors were present.
The Lodge Banners
11th March 2025
The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB.
WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW, Tyler, acted as SW in the absence of WBro Ken Lee. WBro Greg Casson PProvGSwdB acted as SD and WBro Ray Godwin PProvDepGDC, LMO and Organist acted as Tyler.
The Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.
The WM invested WBro Steve Barton PAGDC, as Treasurer. Bro Simon Povey was invested as a Steward.
The Lodge was called off and two future candidates, Mark Waterhouse and Simon Edwards were welcomed into the Lodge room.
A presentation researched and written by Bro K Rawcliffe, JD entitled "The Lodge Banners" was presented by Bro's Rawcliffe, P Chapman, S Povey and S Smith. It was obvious that lots of time and effort had gone into preparing the presentation, which was delivered in an excellent manner. The WM thanked the Brethren for their presentation and all in attendance showed their appreciation with a warm round of applause.
Mark Waterhouse and Simon Edwards retired, and the Lodge was called on.
WBro Barton, advised that all Brethren had received a copy of the audited Lodge accounts for 2024, and he had not received any questions. He therefore proposed that the accounts be accepted. WBro D Bright PProvJGW seconded the proposition, and the Brethren approved by show of hands.
WBro D Heskett PProvGReg, Ch Stwd advised that all Brethren had received a copy of the audited Charity accounts for 2024, and he had not received any questions. He therefore proposed that the accounts be accepted. WBro M Rosney PProvSGD seconded the proposition, and the Brethren approved by show of hands.
Following notice of motion, Bro P Chapman proposed Mr Simon John Edwards, date of birth 27th Feb 1973, residing at 283 Manchester Road, Burnley, Lancashire, BB11 4HN. Employed as a coach builder at Transdev Burnley & Pendle Ltd, Prospect Park, Broughton Way, Harrogate, HG2 7NY, for membership of the Lodge of Amity and Rossendale Forest No.283. Seconded by WBro G Casson PProvGSwdB.
Reports were received from the Almoner and Charity Steward.
Greetings were given by WBro S Barton PAGDC after the first rising, who congratulated the Brethren who had taken part in the presentation, providing another advancement in Masonic knowledge.
Greetings were given by WBro S Rayton PProvJGW after the second rising, who reiterated the comments of WBro Barton, adding further congratulations for Bro Rawcliffe for his extensive research in compiling the presentation. He finished by stating that even he had learnt something new!
In AOB:
- WBro Rayton requested that certain Brethren remain in the Lodge in regalia for the usual photos.
- WBro A Fielder PProvJGD asked the Brethren to consider assisting again at the Todmorden Country Fair on the 21st of June.
- Bro R Godwin gave notice of motion that at the April meeting he will propose Mr Mark Waterhouse for membership of the Lodge.
Greetings were received from Bro Simon Morley of Lancashire Scouting Lodge of Allegiance No.6384. He thanked the Brethren for their invitation, hospitality, and the warm friendly way in which he and Bro Duncan Pritchard had been greeted.
The Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.
Fifteen Members were in attendance together with Two visitors and Two candidates.
The White Gloves
15th April 2025
Acting Officers: Bro J Fitzgerald as JD and WBro G Casson PProvGSwdB as IG.
The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB
The Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.
WBro S Rayton PProvJGW, Tyler was admitted.
A presentation entitled "The White Gloves" was delivered in an excellent manner by our newest member, Bro Scott Smith. The WM thanked Bro Smith for the presentation and all in attendance showed their appreciation with a warm round of applause.
The Tyler retired to attend to his duties.
Following notice of motion and on behalf of WBro R Godwin PProvDepGDC, LMO, the WM proposed Mr Mark Waterhouse, for membership of the Lodge of Amity and Rossendale Forest No.283. Seconded by WBro R Harwood PProvGSwdB, Sec.
A ballot for Mr Simon John Edwards (details as per the summons), for membership of the Lodge proved in favour. Being Mr Edward's seconder, WBro Casson, acting IG thanked the Brethren for their confidence in Bro P Chapman's candidate.
Reports were received from the Almoner and Charity Steward.
At the Second Rising: The Sec communicated the following:
- The new membership app, "Portal" is an easy way for you to access and manage your Masonic profile, see the meeting dates for your Lodges and Chapters, and chart your Masonic journey, amongst many other useful aspects. Unfortunately as A&RF is a lunar Lodge the system is currently unable to cope with our meeting dates. I have distributed the details you need to access the Portal on your PC and mobile device, and I would urge all members to register.
Greetings were given by WBro D Bright PProvJGW, who thanked Bro Smith for a very interesting presentation.
At the Third Rising: The Sec communicated the following:
- This year, the Northern Area Royal Arch Dinner will be at The Adelaide Suit in Accrington on Saturday 10th May. The Deputy Grand Superintendent, EComp Paul Bowen and the Assistant to The Provincial Grand Principals, EComp Andrew Taylor will both be in attendance, and the cost is £35 per person, which includes Dinner and entertainment.
- De Lacy Lodge are hosting a Scottish 3rd Degree demonstration in this building on Saturday the 14th of June, and I'm sure they would be delighted to receive your support.
The Sec advised that all summonses for Northern Area Lodges are accessible through the links in his email footer, before giving details of the apologies received.
AOB:
- WBro Fielder PProvJGD, IPM advised that he is still looking for volunteers to assist at the Todmorden Fair on Saturday the 21st of June. Lodge members, partners and family members would be welcome to help. Several members, partners and future candidates are currently signed up. The Sec apologised for missing this item under the third rising.
- WBro M Rosney PProvSGD asked the Brethren to remain in the Lodge for the usual photo.
- The WM announced that after eleven years in Office, WBro Heskett will step down as RA Rep with immediate effect to allow WBro Harwood to take on the role. As WBro Harwood was appointed Royal Arch Area Rep (RAAO) at the recent Provincial Grand Chapter meeting, the change makes sense. He thanked WBro Heskett for his dedication to the role and WBro Harwood for the work he will do in the office. WBro's Heskett and Harwood responded accordingly.
There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.




Second-Degree Ceremony - Bro Scott Smith
6th May 2025
Acting Officers: Bro J Fitzgerald as JD
The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB
The Worshipful Masters of our Family of Lodges were admitted, and presented to WBro Grishakow, WM, those attending were:
- WBro Alex Wright, WM of Rhyddings Lodge No.5205,
- WBro Michael Gosling, WM of St. Aidan Lodge No. 6339,
- WBro Brian Derbyshire, PProvJGW, WM of Hyndburn Lodge of Installed Masters No. 8766.
The Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.
The main event of the evening was to pass Bro Scott Smith to the Degree of a Fellowcraft. Bro Smith answered the questions before passing in a very exemplary way, he was Deaconed by Bro Jason Fitzgerald acting JD. Bro Smith was then entrusted with the credentials to re-enter the Lodge after being prepared. Bro Smith then retired for preparation.
The WM then opened the Lodge in the Second-Degree and invited WBro Alan Fielder PProvJGD, IPM to occupy the Chair.
Bro Smith was then readmitted to the Lodge and Passed to the Degree of a Fellowcraft by WBro Fielder in an excellent manner.
- The candidate was Deaconed by Bro Bogdan Manoliu SD in a confident manner.
- The address to the SE Corner was given by Bro Manoliu
- The explanation of the Working Tools was given by WBro Russell Harwood, PProvGSwdB
- The Charge after Passing was given by WBro Ken Lee, SW
Bro Smith retired to restore himself. The WM reoccupied the Chair. Bro Smith was readmitted and the WM demonstrated the test questions before Raising with the assistance of the SW and JW. Bro Smith was congratulated on taking the Second regular step in Freemasonry and resumed his seat in the Lodge. The Lodge was closed by virtue to the First-Degree.
A ballot for Mr Mark Waterhouse (details as per the summons), for membership of the Lodge proved in favour. WBro R Godwin thanked the Brethren for their confidence in his candidate.
Reports were received from the Almoner and Charity Steward.
The Sec had no business to report at the First Rising,
At the Second Rising: The Sec communicated the following:
- Brethren, I have another reminder that the new membership app, "Portal" is open for registration and I urge those who have not yet done so to register as soon as possible.
- The East Lancashire Bicentenary is being celebrated on Sunday the 18th of May with a 7 or 10 miles walk incorporating a Treasure Hunt. The event is open to all the family and will be arranged on staggered start times. Registration is now open and the details can be found on the flyer previously circulated.
Greetings were given by WBro D Bright PProvJGW, on behalf of the Provincial Grand Lodge Officers, who congratulated Bro Smith on becoming a Fellowcraft..
At the Third Rising: The Sec communicated the following:
- De Lacy Lodge are hosting a Scottish 3rd Degree demonstration in this building on Saturday the 14th of June, and I'm sure they would be delighted to receive your support.
- WBro Fielder is still looking for volunteers to assist at the Todmorden Fair on Saturday the 21st of June. Lodge members, partners and family would be welcome to help. So far we have myself and Lynette, Kevin and Michelle, and one of our candidates, Mark Waterhouse. If anyone else can help please contact me as soon as possible.
- The next Area meeting will be at 7:30pm on Tue the 13th of May at Burnley Masonic Hall. The Area APGP, EComp Andrew Taylor will address the meeting and all members are encouraged to attend.
The Sec advised that all summonses for Northern Area Lodges are accessible through the links in his email footer, before giving details of the apologies received.
AOB:
WBro Rosney asked the Brethren to stay after the Lodge was closed for the usual photographs for the website.
Visiting Brethren tended greetings one from each Lodge. They all congratulated Bro Smith on the way he answered the test questions and his conduct in the Lodge.
There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.
** Summer Recess **
Initiation Ceremony - Bro Mark Waterhouse
9th September 2025
Acting Officers:
- WBro Steve Barton PGADC as JW.
- WBro Greg Casson PProvGSwdB as JD.
† Before opening the Lodge, the WM asked the Brethren to stand to order in respect of the death of Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent.
Lodge Meeting:
The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB
The Secretary read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.
The main event of the evening was to Initiate Mr Mark Waterhouse into Freemasonry. Mr Waterhouse was Deaconed by WBro Greg Casson PProvGSwdB acting JD.
The ceremony was conducted in an excellent manner by the WM, WBro Grishakow and the Lodge Officers
- The address to the NE Corner was given by Bro Manoliu, SD, and the WM
- The explanation of the Working Tools was given by Bro Scott Smith,(FC)
Bro Waterhouse retired to restore himself. Bro Waterhouse was readmitted, and the Charge after Initiation was given by WBro Ken Lee, SW in a most excellent manner.
The WM demonstrated the test questions before Passing with the assistance of the SW and JW. Bro Waterhouse was congratulated on taking the First regular step in Freemasonry and was presented with the Book of Constitutions, the Lodge Byelaws and a Commemorative certificate; he then resumed his seat in the Lodge.
Tribute to Bro Gabriel Bullock:
WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW, Tyler gave a tribute; "Remembering Bro Gabriel Bullock", 30 years of age who lost his life in the Great War 1914 - 1918, just 57 days before the armistice.
Reports:
Reports were received from the Almoner (presented by WBro Rayton in the absence of WBro Derek Smith PProvGReg) and Charity Steward (presented by WBro Russell Harwood PProvGSwdB, Sec in the absence of WBro Dennis Heskett PProvGReg).
First Rising:
WBro Steve Barton tendered greetings from United Grand Lodge of England, who congratulated the WM and his Officers on such a splendid ceremony. He also congratulated Bro Mark Waterhouse on his part in the ceremony.
Second Rising:
Greetings were given by WBro S Rayton on behalf of the Provincial Grand Lodge Officers, who congratulated the WM and Officers and also Bro Waterhouse on becoming a member of the Lodge.
Third Rising:
Visiting Brethren tended greetings one from each Lodge. Bro Shaun Ormerod of Limestone Rock Lodge tendered greetings and congratulated the WM and Officers on an excellent ceremony and Bro Waterhouse on becoming a member of such a fine Lodge. He also thanked WBro Rayton for the tribute to Bro Gabriel Bullock.
AOB:
WBro Rayton asked the WM for Brethren to stay after the Lodge was closed for the usual photographs for the website.
There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.
Attendance: 14 members and 2 visitors from Limestone Rock.
from WBro Grishakow PProvGStB, WM
Third-Degree Ceremony - Bro Simon David Povey
7th October 2025
Acting Officers:
- WBro Russell Harwood PProvGSwdB, Sec as JW.
- WBro Greg Casson PProvGSwdB as SD.
- WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW, Tyler as IG.
- WBro Ian Haworth PProvDepGDC, Chaplain as Tyler
- WBro Paul Birchenough PProvJGD - SW of Peaceful Valley Lodge No.4111 volunteered as Chaplain.
- Harmony was provided by WBro Stephen Gregory PAGDC of Silent Temple Lodge No.126 and Westhoughton Lodge of Amity No.7782.
Lodge Meeting:
The Lodge was opened in due form by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB.
The Secretary read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes were approved and signed by the WM and Wardens.
The main event of the evening was to Raise Bro Simon David Povey to the Sublime Degree of of a Master Mason. Bro Povey was Deaconed by WBro Greg Casson acting SD.
The ceremony was conducted in a most excellent manner by the WBro Alan Fielder PProvJGD IPM assisted by the Lodge Officers
- The Charge after Raising was given by WBro Ken Lee in his usual exemplary manner.
- The explanation of the Working Tools was given by WBro Graham Grishakow WM.
Bro Povey retired to restore himself. He was readmitted, and the Traditional History and Tracing Board was given by WBro Graham Grishakow WM in a most excellent manner.
The WM demonstrated the test questions of a Master Mason with the assistance of the SW and JW. The WM invited WBro Fielder, IPM to congratulate Bro Povey on his Raising, the WM then congratulated Bro Povey. A Commemorative certificate of his Raising was then presented to Bro Povey who then resumed his seat in the Lodge.
The WM then closed the Lodge down through the Degrees to the First-Degree by virtue.
Reports:
Reports were received from the Almoner (WBro Rayton stated that the Almoner's report had be distributed by email) and Charity Steward (WBro Russell Harwood, Sec in the absence of WBro Dennis Heskett PProvGReg) also stated that the Charity Steward's report had been distributed by email.
First Rising:
Greetings from United Grand Lodge were given by WBro S Gregory PAGDC, who congratulated all who had taken part in the ceremony, and Bro Povey on becoming a Master Mason.
Second Rising:
Greetings were given by WBro Phillip Titterton ProvJGW on behalf of the Provincial Grand Lodge Officers, who congratulated the WM and Officers and also Bro Povey on being Raised to the Sublime-Degree of a Master Mason.
Third Rising:
Greetings were received from Lime-Stone Rock Lodge No.369, Silent Temple Lodge No.126, Calder Lodge No.4564, Peaceful Valley Lodge No.4111, De Lacy Lodge No.4591, Internet Lodge No.9659, and Westhoughton Lodge of Amity No.7782.
The WM thanked the visitors for their greetings and thanked those who had stood in for the various offices at short notice, particularly WBro P Birchenough for acting as Chaplain and WBro S Gregory for providing harmony.
AOB:
- WBro Rayton asked the WM for Brethren to stay after the Lodge was closed for the usual photographs for the website.
- The Sec informed the Brethren that WBro Rosney PProvSGD, DC had recently received the news that he would become a Grandad for the first time in April. The Brethren joined the Sec in offering their congratulations with a spontaneous round of applause. WBro Rosney thanked the Brethren, adding that he is too young to become a Grandad.
There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.
Attendance: 12 members and 8 visitors.
from WBro Grishakow PProvGStB, WM
Open and Close in all Degrees by Ritual
4th November 2025
Acting Officers:
- WBro G Casson PProvGSwdB was acting IG.
The Lodge was opened in due form and by the WM, WBro G Grishakow PProvGStB.
The WM welcomed WBro D McGurty JP, PSGD, AProvGM before offering him the gavel of the Lodge, adding that he was delighted when he received the email stating that WBro McGurty was going to accept the offer. The Brethren and WBro McGurty found this hilarious, and even more so when WBro McGurty replied "well, I will actually.............. No, I'm only Joking". WBro McGurty acknowledged that it is always an honour to receive the Gavel of any Lodge, and that he recognised that he had not yet been to visit our Lodge during WBro Gishakow's year in the chair, something he was remedying tonight. He then returned the gavel to the WM.
WBro M Rosney PProvSGD, DC requested the Brethren give EA honours five times. WBro McGurty thanked the Brethren for their salutations and in return greeted them well.
WBro R Harwood PProvGSwdB, Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes of our last regular meeting were approved by the Brethren and signed by the WM and Wardens.
All Brethren below the rank of a FC were asked to retire for a short time, and the Lodge was opened in the Second Degree. All Brethren below the rank of a MM were asked to retire for a short time, and the Lodge was opened in the Third Degree. The Lodge was closed from the third to the second Degree by ritual. The Lodge was closed from the second to the first Degree by ritual. FC and EA were readmitted at the appropriate times.
The Sec read the Lodge By-Laws.
WBro S Barton PAGDC, Treas gave notice of motion that at the next meeting he will propose the sub's for 2026.
WBro D Heskett PProvGReg, Ch Stwd gave notice of motion that at the next meeting he will propose certain sums for donation to charity.
On behalf of WBro D Smith PProvGReg, Almoner, WBro S Rayton PProvJGW proposed the usual gift voucher and an invitation to the Lodge
Christmas meal for each of our widows. WBro D Bright PProvJGW seconded the proposition and the Brethren voted in favour.
The WM invited Bro Radu Andreescu of St Hilary Lodge, No.3591 in the Province of Cheshire, to give a presentation on Smile Burundi UK. The presentation was well received, and the Brethren showed their appreciation in the usual Masonic manner. The WM thanked Bro Andreescu for his presentation and presented him with a cheque for £50 as a donation to the charity, adding that he may consider approaching Grand Charity for more substantial assistance.
Reports were received from the Almoner and Charity Steward.
First Rising:
Greetings were given by WBro S Barton PAGDC, who thanked Bro Andreescu for his presentation adding that he hoped his charity would be well supported by the Lodge and Freemasonry in general.
Second Rising:
Greetings were given by WBro D McGurty JP PSGD AProvGM, adding that he had enjoyed the work in the Lodge and that it was a privilege to be in the presence of Bro Andreescu for the work he is undertaking for the children.
Third Rising:
Greetings for the visitors were given by Bro Radu Andreescu of St Hilary Lodge, No.3591 in the Province of Cheshire.
Apologies had been received as recorded above.
AOB:
WBro Rosney asked the Brethren to remain in the Lodge for the usual photos.
There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony and the Brethren retired to the Festive Board.
Attendance: 16 members and 4 visitors.
Rembrance Sunday 2025
The WM WBro Alan Fielder PProvJGD, IPM
(Armed Forces Veteran)
laid the Lodge wreath at the War Memorial in Haslingden on Sunday 9 November 2025.

We will remember them ALL with honour and pride.
[ Photos courtesy of Hannah Barton granddaughter of WBro Steve Barton PAGDC ]
December Business Meeting
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Acting Officers: WBro A Fielder PProvJGD, IPM acted as WM; WBro S Rayton PProvJGW, acted as SW; WBro I Haworth PProvDepGDC, acted as IPM and WBro Ray Godwin PProvDepGDC acted as Tyler.
The Lodge was opened in due form by WBro A Fielder PProvJGD, IPM, acting WM.
WBro R Harwood PProvGSwdB, Sec read the summons convening the meeting and the circulated minutes of our last regular meeting were approved by the Brethren and signed by the WM and Wardens.
The following elections took place:
- WBro Fielder advised that there had been only one nominee for the office of Worshipful Master for the ensuing year, being WBro Graham Grishakow PProvSGD. WBro Fielder asked if there were any other nominees, and there being none, declared WBro Grishakow re-elected as Worshipful Master for the ensuing year.
- WBro Fielder advised that there had been only one nominee for the office of Treasurer, being WBro Steve Barton, PAGDC. WBro Fielder asked if there were any other nominees, and there being none, declared WBro Barton re-elected as Treasurer for the ensuing year. WBro Barton thanked the Brethren for the trust they had placed in him.
- To elect the Accounts Examination Committee for the ensuing year - WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW and Bro William Atkinson were re-elected as the Accounts Examination Committee (Auditors).
Bro B Manoliu, SD proposed that the WM be empowered to appoint a Tyler for the ensuing year from amongst the subscribing members without emolument. Seconded by Bro K Rawcliffe, JD and approved by the Brethren.
Following notice of motion WBro Barton, Treasurer proposed the membership fees for 2026, WBro Harwood, Sec seconded the proposition and the Brethren approved by a show of hands. The Treasurer thanked the acting WM and Brethren and asked that all 2026 dues be paid between the 2nd and 5th of January as this would assist him greatly.
Following a Notice of Motion, the Charity Steward, WBro Heskett PProvGReg proposed and WBro Harwood seconded that certain sum of money be given to Charity - approved on a show of hands.
The WM advised that reports from the Almoner and CS had been circulated to all Lodge members prior to the meeting and that there was no Area report. As there were no amendments, the WM took the reports as read.
The Treasurer confirmed that all accounts due and accruing had been delt with except for the evening meal, to which he would presently attend.
Greetings were received on the first rising from WBro Steven Barton PAGDC.
Greetings were received on the second rising from WBro Stuart Rayton PProvJGW.
Greetings were received from Lodges 4111, 126 and 5205.
There being no further business the Lodge was closed in peace and harmony.
The Tyler's book recorded 15 members and 5 visitors had attended the meeting.















