There was an excellent show of support as Freemasons from across the northwest attended the re-signing of the Armed Forces Covenant at Brookfield Masonic Hall, Westhoughton. Re-signing the Armed Forces Covenant demonstrates West Lancashire Freemasons’ commitment to supporting those who serve or have served in the armed forces, as well as their families.
This commitment ensures that veterans, active personnel and their loved ones, are treated with fairness and respect in the communities where they live and work. It is a promise to recognize their significant sacrifices and the challenges they face.
The day started off perfectly; the sun was shining and everyone was in high spirits, ready to enjoy the day. Upon entering the car park, we were greeted by an impressive display of military equipment and Steve Ralph and Mick O’Brien had also brought along the West Lancashire Provincial trailer and were available to answer questions and distribute literature to those showing an interest in Freemasonry.
Inside the hall, representatives from various organizations, including The Royal British Legion Westhoughton, the Darren Deady Foundation, SSAFA Merseyside, Trafford Veterans Association, the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, the Veterans Living History Museum, the Air Cadets and Sea Cadets associated with the Royal Marines Cadets, had set up their stalls and were happily chatting with their visitors.
Darren Holmes and Gary Longthorne, who assisted with the logistics both prior to and on the day of the event, announced that the Trafford Veterans Corps of Drums and the 69th Royal Artillery Demonstration Team were about to perform in the car park, a display that shouldn’t be missed.
After the demonstration by the forces teams was complete, it was time for the honoured guests to join the Provincial Grand Master for the Province of West Lancashire Mark Matthews for the re-signing of the covenant. The principal guest was Alf Clempson, Vice Chairman of Lancashire County Council.
Alf Clempson was accompanied by Neil Maher, the Mayor of Westhoughton, himself a 25-year veteran, along with his wife, Mayoress Linda, also present were Andrew Morgan, the Mayor of Bolton, and his partner, Mayoress Karen Holdsworth. Additionally, the Deputy Mayor of South Ribble, Paul Wharton-Hardman, who is also the Chorley and Leyland Group Secretary, attended with his consort, Christopher Wharton-Hardman.
Before the signing, Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Gary Smith, the event organizer, read a paper he had written titled: “Freemasonry and the Armed Forces”, which was well received by all present. On completion of the signing, Mark Matthews said: “From its earliest foundations, Freemasonry has maintained a strong relationship with the Armed Forces.
Today, we want to express our gratitude to the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our country and its citizens. They deserve our heartfelt thanks and respect. This is just one of many steps we aim to take to support both active and retired members of the Armed Forces and their families.” Mark then took great pleasure in presenting cheques totalling £2,600 to the attending dignitaries for their chosen charities, he then invited all to join him for a well-deserved lunch of Lancashire hotpot
The day had been a resounding success thanks to the hard work of Gary Smith, Darren Holmes and Gary Longthorne, proof of which showed by so many grand and Provincial grand officers attending; the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master Frank Umbers, Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, Peter Locket, John James, Malcolm Bell, David Thomas, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals Paul Hesketh.
Also present were the Provincial Grand Secretary Peter Taylor, Chorley and Leyland Group Chairman Dave Bishop, both wardens of the Province Mike Silver and Mark Humphries, the Provincial Deputy Grand Directors of Ceremonies Gary Smith, Peter Littlehales and Dave Boyes. Along with the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity representatives and several of the Armed Forces Covenant Officers of the Province.
In conclusion, the Lodge of Valour No 4322, in the Leigh Group, is transitioning to a military lodge. Gary Smith invites all veterans and current members of the Armed Forces who are interested in joining Freemasonry, as well as brethren wishing to join a military lodge, to contact him and become a part of this new venture. Gary can be contacted via: email: garysmith71@live.co.uk
Pictured left: The Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton meet the Air Cadets. Pictured right: Mark invests his successor.