Blackpool Lodge No 1476, consecrated in 1874, is one of Blackpool’s oldest lodges and has celebrated its 150th anniversary of continuous service. The list of past masters on the summons serves as a literal chronicle of Blackpool Lodge’s founding fathers. Notably, the most prominent name on this list is Bickerstaffe, renowned for its contributions to Blackpool Piers and Blackpool Tower. However, it is imperative to focus on the lodge’s future aspirations rather than dwelling on the past.
The master elect for 2025 wears a light blue apron, as do 15 of the 24 officers listed on the summons. This has been possible through a policy of consistently inviting gentlemen to dine at each meeting. During these gatherings, gentlemen retire to the bar for refreshments during the Masonic toasts.
This initiative has fostered a group of non-Masons who feel comfortable waiting for their initiations, forming a bond with each other through the traditions of Freemasonry. Consequently, Blackpool Lodge is experiencing a resurgence, with a new generation of Freemasons who possess both inquisitive minds and traditional values that will ensure the lodge’s continued success for the next 150 years.
Lodge director of ceremonies Ray Lamb announced that the principal guest Giles Berkley, representing the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, requested admission to the lodge. Giles processed into the lodge accompanied by grand officers: Keith Beardmore, Geoffrey Lee, Paul Medley, Blackpool Group Chairman Steve Jelly, group secretary Michael Tax and acting Provincial grand officer Colin Rodgers.
After welcoming Giles to Blackpool Lodge, WM Ian Fowler relinquished the chair of King Solomon to installing master Ray Lamp. Ray subsequently requested that the installing officers occupy their respective chairs and positions. Lee Martin occupied the chair installing senior warden, Keith Beardmore occupied the chair of junior warden and Gary Wainwright the position of installing inner guard.
After being presented to the lodge by Paul Medlycott, master elect Darren Clemson was installed as master of Blackpool Lodge according to the traditional Blackpool Lodge ritual. Paul also delivered the address to the WM afterward. The address to the wardens was given by Michael Tax. The presentation of the working tools of an installed master was given to the WM by Mark Heelis, with the other three sets of working tools being confidently delivered by three of the lodge’s junior brethren: Darron Clarke for the third degree working tools, David Booth for the second degree working tools and David McFarlane for the first degree working tools.
Concluding the installation ceremony, a flawless address to the brethren of the lodge was delivered by Giles Berkley. Consequently, Giles rose to congratulate Darren on becoming possibly the newest master in the Province, continuing to express gratitude to Ray Lamb as the installing master and to all of the other officers involved in the installation ceremony.
Darren expressed his appreciation for Giles’s kind sentiments and presented him with cheques to the value of £5,805 for local and national charities raised during the year of the new immediate past master Ian Fowler. Giles acknowledged the brethren on behalf of the recipients, ensuring that the funds would be judiciously allocated to support those less fortunate than ourselves.
Upon the completion of the meeting, the brethren and their guests retired to the lounge bar before taking their seats at the festive board. Once everyone had been adequately fed and provided with wine, the wine takings and toasts commenced. In his response to the toast to the grand officers, principal guest Giles Berkley expressed gratitude to the Blackpool Group executive for the invitation to represent the Provincial Grand Master at this installation meeting and to Blackpool Lodge for their hospitality. Giles emphasised the importance of retaining members by organising social events that include their wives and partners.
During the festive board, a raffle raised the substantial sum of £456 for both Masonic and non-Masonic charities. Lee Martin then delivered a humorous toast to the newly installed master, informing the brethren that he and Darren had grown up together and had developed a strong friendship. On cue, Peter Bowden performed the Master’s Song, accompanied by Grant Thornburrow on the piano.
In his response, Darren thanked Lee for the most amusing toast to his health and expressed his anticipation for his year in office, which will include numerous charity and social events. Darren concluded by expressing gratitude to everyone for an enjoyable day, confident that he will be an effective WM with the support of the past masters and brethren of Blackpool Lodge. A truly exceptional afternoon was shared by all present and they departed with the echoes of the tyler’s toast, accompanied by cherished memories of Masonic friendship and philanthropy.
