SYNERGY - Ormskirk & Bootle Groupormskirkbootle.westlancsfreemasons.org.uk/wp-content/.../10/SYNERG… · SYNERGY Volume 1 Issue 1 October 2016 ... The members and many guests of

SYNERGY

October 2016 Volume 1 Issue 1

Ormskirk and Bootle Group of Lodges and Chapters

Newsletter

Brethren and Companions, on behalf of the group chairman Frank Umbers, welcome to our newly launched monthly newsletter.

With the 2016-2017 Masonic season now well underway we are excited to present the first edition entitled ‘SYNERGY’

With the Ormskirk and Bootle groups coming together it was agreed that instead of two individual publications in future there would be only one.

The previous newsletter ‘Ormskirk Life and Times’ and the ‘Bootle Spotlight’ have been replaced with this new monthly edition. The name was chosen following a competition held to suggest a suitable title. Seven entries were received for consideration; The Masonic Times, Synergy, Connect, Spotlife Times, The Broomskirtle, The Sefton Park Repository and The OBG Times.

The name ‘Synergy’ was chosen and the winner of the £25 Marks and Spencer voucher is Malcolm Sandywell a member of Stanley of Bickerstaffe Lodge No 3511,Arthur Stanley Lodge No 3469 and Stanley of Bickerstaffe Chapter No 3511. The word ‘Synergy’ is a very apt title as it means “the potential ability for individuals or groups to be more successful working together than on their own.”

The aims of this publication are to bring together the stories once a month that have been previously published on the group website for as we are sure you have noticed that they do not stay on the front page of the website for very long, but to also include information on group activities, forthcoming events and articles of a general interest not only to keep you, our members, up-to-date but to also inform the wider community of the good work we do as an organisation.

The group publicity officers Barry and Russell hope that you will help them to keep this publication interesting and informative by assisting them in forwarding suitable articles regarding Craft and Royal Arch, charitable fundraising and social occasions within the Ormskirk and Bootle Group. Both are looking forward to your help in making this publication a must read for all.

Group Chairman Frank Umbers

Frank congratulates Malcolm Sandywell before presenting him with his prize.

Masons, family and friends came together recently to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Ormskirk Masonic Hall. The iconic building right in the heart of the town has been owned by various companies since it was built. In 1851 it was in the ownership of Thomas Hutton Ltd (Ormskirk Advertiser Proprietors), and much later the Ormskirk Hemming Company to name a couple. For the past half century it has been the principle home of Freemasonry in Ormskirk. Records show that Freemasonry in Ormskirk dates back to 1781 with the Lodge of Harmony No 580 meeting at the Golden Lion Inn. Harmony is one of the three oldest lodges in the county. From this early beginning, the Lodge of Harmony initiated the spread of Freemasonry in the district From those first meetings held in the Golden Lion Inn, a succession of meeting places in Ormskirk were used throughout the years, notably the Ship Inn, the Talbot Inn, the Swan Inn and finally the Wheatsheaf Inn. Town development brought about the closure of the Wheatsheaf and many others and so the present premises in Park Road were purchased, adapted and furnished as our Masonic Hall. The building consists of dining, kitchen and bar facilities on the ground floor and on the first floor there is a bar and lounge, committee rooms, and the Masonic temple. Over the years the ground floor has been open to the public under various names: Park Hall Restaurant, The Old Print Works, and now under the very successful guise of O’Briens Tea Rooms. Gary has very successfully raised the profile of the hall by promoting and also encouraging private functions throughout the building, bringing in much needed revenue to the hall. Malcolm Alexander, Ormskirk Group Secretary, acted as master of ceremonies on the evening and his first duty was to introduce Frank Umbers Ormskirk and Bootle Group Chairman. Frank said: “On behalf of the Ormskirk group and the Ormskirk Masonic Hall chairman, Peter Smith, and his executive

committee, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to you all this evening and to say a massive big thank you for coming along to support this event. This evening’s dinner has been organised for two special reasons firstly, the end of season get-together; for everyone to relax and enjoy themselves and secondly, to coincide with the golden jubilee of the Masonic Hall being established here in this building.” The guests then stood for Grace given by Barry Hewitt, Ormskirk Group Publicity Officer; they then enjoyed a three course dinner, of trio of melon with mixed berry coulis, followed by Mozzarella stuffed chicken served with seasonal vegetables and for dessert profiteroles with chocolate sauce, with freshly brewed coffee and chocolate truffles to finish. With everyone suitably refreshed the evening’s entertainment

was in the very capable hands of vocalist Finbarr Smith. This talented young man soon had guests up on their feet dancing the night away to his dulcet tones. During a short break in the evening’s entertainment, and following the raffle, Frank announced that the celebration had raised the magnificent amount of £691 towards Masonic charities and refurbishment of the hall; for which he thanked everyone for their generosity and support. Finbarr took up the microphone once again to everyone’s delight and soon the dance floor and hall was vibrating to the energetic rhythms of happy revellers. The closing remarks must go to Frank who took great pride in thanking the hall committee for their continued dedication. To Gary and his staff for the excellent meal and service; and to Stewart Cranage for organising the splendid evening; with a special mention of John Mercer of Lathom Abbey Lodge No 6286 who in Frank’s opinion scored a 10 for his dancing prowess, with David Sullivan, Bootle Group Treasurer, and Ray Barrow, Bootle Group Secretary, coming second and third respectively.

Candlelit dinner celebrates 50 year anniversary of the Hall

Frank Umbers welcomes everyone

Great celebration of 50 years.

Page 2 SYNERGY Volume 1 Issue 1

The members and many guests of Bootle Pilgrim Lodge No 1473 recently gathered for the very special occasion to celebrate an important milestone within the lodge; that being 50 years in Freemasonry for John Spurr. Attending the meeting as the principal guest and to preside over the evening’s celebration was the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Robert Wright, who was accompanied by Ormskirk and Bootle Group Vice Chairman, Stephen Brereton.

Before commencing to open the lodge the WM, Alan Hore, warmly welcomed the brethren. Alan then opened the lodge and proceeded to open in the second and third degrees, whence the Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Mark Barton was admitted into the room.

Mark announced Robert Wright was without and demanded admission and he was duly admitted into the lodge in an impressive possession. Alan warmly welcomed Robert to the lodge and thanked him for his attendance on this very special occasion, Robert then accepted the gavel and invited John to sit in a chair which had been placed in front of the master’s pedestal, asking him to relax and enjoy the evening. The brethren were then treated to a splendid account of John’s life.

Robert started his presentation to John by saying, “Tonight is indeed a very special occasion. We are here to celebrate 50 years in Freemasonry with a brother who makes a success out of everything he has taken part in, with his dedication, sense of duty and all with a sense of humour, it is therefore very pleasing to see so many brethren here this evening who want to share in this celebration and I thank you all most sincerely for your support of our celebrant tonight. It is my honour to lead that celebration and tonight brethren I hope to lead you through a most interesting story, a tribute to hard work, care and dedication not only to Freemasonry but to family and the community.”

Robert then informed the brethren of some of the notable births from the year John was born in 1940, sharing the year of his birth with some very famous entertainers, John Lennon, Tom Jones, Cliff Richard and legendary footballer Pele.

John was born in Ormskirk to John and Dorothy Spurr, the middle child with an older and younger brother, John attended Derby Street Infant School, before moving to Aughton Street Infant School. Having passed the 11+ John went to the single sex Hutton Grammar school in Preston, excelling in ‘O’ level maths. This was a whole one hour journey each way on the 101 bus.

In 1956 John went to work for British Rail, staying for nine years. The work took John from Lime Street, to all the docks in Liverpool and from Ellesmere Port to Southport in support of stations requiring help with staff. But in 1963, Dr Richard Beeching published his report on the Railways resulting in over 5,000 miles of track and 2,363 stations being closed. John at the time had hoped to progress, and indeed had studied hard to qualify as a Graduate of the Institute of Transport but his future prospects in management training went along with the closures.

John then joined the management team at Pilkington’s Glass in St. Helens, ironically in the Railway Department, progressing through various departments including time study, work study and management services. John’s mathematic and analytical skills were most tested when he oversaw the project to introduce computerisation into the stock control systems. Moving to the Personnel Department, he developed the monitoring systems for working hours, this was complex due to the many different shift patterns, with 10,000 people working at Pilkingtons. Also he introduced the systems for sickness monitoring and during this time John successfully studied and qualified as a Graduate of the Institute of Personnel Management. Whilst at Pilkington’s Rainford High School wanted to form an industry link with the school. John became the co-ordinator and organised talks to be given by both management and shop floor staff at the school and John organised factory visits for over 300 pupils each year. This involvement in the community was a vital part of Pilkington’s success and every year they had an industry day for the school where prizes were given for the best presentations on the global economy, product designs.

John celebrates 50 years in Masonry

Robert Wright (left) presenting John with his jubilee certificate.

Continued on next page.


Robert said, “Your planning of these events is another example of your dedication and organisational strengths.” John later moved to the Production Planning Department and using Just in Time management principles sought to ensure stock was available for customers as they needed it, and after 34 years of service he took early retirement in 1998.

John started playing tennis at a very early age joining Ormskirk Tennis Club Juniors when he was 15 at the same time as Kathleen Cooke, later to become his wife. Kathleen later became secretary for 25 years and John served as captain on a number of occasions. John took coaching qualifications, to help bring on juniors, and organised a successful annual national junior tournament at the club and surrounding venues. One of his duties was to be an assistant referee and to assist umpiring the finals. A fellow member of the club was also a member of the British Tennis Umpires Association and persuaded John to join, and after various courses qualified and in 1965 began John’s umpiring career, spanning some 46

years; progressing from local events to umpiring national and international matches to world team championships. Achieving the very high level of International White Badge Umpire, officiating at Wimbledon for 28 years, on all courts including Centre Court. John has been on court during the careers of Boris Becker, Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, Tim Henman, Ivan Lendl and John McEnroe as well as the Williams sisters. Retiring from umpiring in 2011, but still involved with tennis, John is currently the chairman of the Southport and District Tennis League, and has served on the Lancashire County Tennis Association Committee and was County President in 2005. After 60 years membership of Ormskirk Tennis Club, both John and his wife Kathleen were made honorary life members and John is still one of the four trustees. John now enjoys organising the five day walking holiday (last year 78 people attended) for the Aughton and Ormskirk University of the 3rd Age which actively promotes activities for retired people. John also plays bowls, bridge and enjoys wine tasting. In 1999 and for 10 years John served as a governor at the Little Digmoor Primary School eventually becoming their chairman. Kathleen who John had met at confirmation classes were married in 1964, with the wedding reception being held at Southport Masonic Hall as his father in law was a member of Southport Temperance Lodge. They have a daughter, Jane, who is now a naturalised Australian citizen and has a very successful career at ANZ Bank in Sydney. Kathleen and John celebrated their golden wedding in 2014. Robert then informed the brethren on John’s Masonic history. John was initiated into Pilgrim Lodge No 6207 on the 7 September 1966, 50 years ago to the day. Pilgrim Lodge was named because all the founders were new to the area or had not been born in Ormskirk so were pilgrims to the area. John was proposed by his father who also was the current senior warden, John’s elder brother was WM in 1973 and John followed him in 1975 serving the lodge as almoner, treasurer and served again as WM in 1985. In the same year John was appointed to the rank of PPrJGD, in 1995 John took over the role as secretary of the lodge and received a promotion to PPrGSuptWks. During John’s time as secretary he oversaw the lodges 50th celebration and he was promoted to PPrJGW in 2002. In 2010, Bootle Lodge No 1473 and Pilgrim Lodge amalgamated, with John stepping down after 15 years as secretary, earning a well-deserved rest. John is also a member of Stanley of Bickerstaffe Chapter No 3511 joining in March 1979 having been again proposed by his father, who sadly passed away before he joined. John was first principal in 1990 and received Provincial honours in 1997 as PPrAG Soj. John had served the chapter as Scribe Ezra for a number of years and was promoted to PPrGSwdB in 2006. Robert said, “You have filled your Masonic duties with distinction and enthusiasm. On this special occasion in your Masonic career all the brethren will join with me in thanking you for all that you have done on behalf of Freemasonry over the years.” After the detailed account of John’s life and Masonic career so far, Robert asked the Ormskirk and Bootle Group Vice Chairman, Stephen Brereton, to read out the jubilee certificate. Robert then presented the certificate to John, saying, “You have set an example to us all in your life. In commitment to family, the community as well as a lifelong involvement and dedication to Freemasonry, it gives me great pleasure to present to you this certificate recording your achievement of 50 years in Freemasonry and to wish you on behalf of all the brethren here good health and to enjoy many more years in our company, Brethren please join with me in your congratulations.”

John presenting Alan with the lodges new WM collar.

Continued from previous page



With Robert handing the gavel back to Alan, John then presented the lodge with a new worshipful master’s collar which he had purchased, with the old Bootle Lodge’s master’s collar now to be worn by the senior warden and the old Pilgrim Lodge’s master’s collar to be worn by the junior warden. John said, “In 2010 there was a special night with the amalgamation of the two lodges’, and it gives me great pleasure to present the lodge with a new collar to be worn by the master of Bootle Pilgrim Lodge.” Alan responded on behalf of the lodge by saying, “Thank you for this kind and generous offer; it is most appreciated by the brethren of the lodge.” After closing the lodge, the brethren made their way to an excellent festive board which was enjoyed by all the brethren. George Macdonald chaplain of the lodge proposed the toast to John and explained to the brethren that he has known John for 36 years, saying that John has occupied every position of Pilgrim Lodge including master twice. He concluded by wishing John many more happy years in Freemasonry. Alan then presented John with a special embroidered cushion to celebrate the landmark which had a Masonic design with John’s name, rank and the years of his 50th, and also an engraved huntsman pocket watch, to celebrate the occasion.

On the table was a magnificent celebration cake which was provided for the evening by John’s wife Kathleen, which had a copy of John’s Masonic apron made out of icing as the cake top design. In response to the toast John thanked Robert Wright and his team for the ceremony, and George for the toast to his health. John said, “50 years seems a long time since I joined Masonry at Park Hall, I have a lot of happy memories with Pilgrim Lodge from 1966 to 2010, and with the amalgamation and I have now had another happy six years with the brethren here of Bootle Pilgrim Lodge.” During the response John mentioned that his father and grandfather who also bore the same name were Masons, with John showing the brethren their past master jewels”. Finishing the response John thanked everyone for making the evening a most memorable night for him. A raffle was held raising £146 which will be donated to West Lancashire Masonic Charities. With the formalities of the evening being drawn to a close, Alan on behalf of the lodge presented Robert with a display of flowers for his wife Tina and to Stephen, a display of flowers for his wife Margaret.

Pictured centre: Robert Wright, John Spurr and Alan Hore with the Provincial team and grand officers.

The combination of gathering storm clouds and threatened heavy rain did not deter the dedicated bowlers of the Ormskirk and Bootle Group of Lodges and Chapters who came together to compete for the annual crown green bowls tournament. The Dog and Gun in Aughton was once again the venue for this event. The much improved crown green at this local hostelry was looking at its best no doubt due to the many hours of dedicated work undertaken by a small team of regulars that call this green their home. This provided ideal conditions for what was to become a strongly contested competition. John Glover of Park Hall Lodge No 8375 was once again in command bringing his usual expertise to the proceedings. Competing for the Charity Challenge Cup this year were eight contestants from various lodges in the group who were cheered on by a

number of supporters and friends. Group Chairman Frank Umbers welcomed everyone to the occasion with a special mention of Brian Crossley from Bootle who was competing for the first time. The competition got under way with a round robin with the competitors placed in two sets of four each individual playing three games to the winning score of 15. This completed; the two members with the highest score in each group played the runner up in the opposing set. Ian Tupling of Aughton Lodge No 7996 competed against John Medcalf of St Michael’s Lodge No 5756 and Brian Crossley of Fermor Hesketh Lodge No 1350 took on Stuart Cunningham of Park Hall Lodge No 8375.

Storm clouds gather but bowls reign supreme

Stuart Cunningham, Frank Umbers and John Medcalf.




This round completed saw John and Stuart come together one more time to contest for the title of outright winner with both finalists determined to give of their best. After a well fought battle John claimed victory with a score of 15 to 3. Before presenting the prizes, Frank Umbers thanked everyone for attending and with a cheeky grin, and his usual wit, commented that during the competition he had had the pleasure of being triumphant over his rival grand officer Malcolm Alexander threatening to have his score card enlarged to A3 size and displayed on the wall at the Masonic Hall; which led to much hilarity. Frank went on to personally thank John Glover for once again organising the event and Mike Barker landlord of the Dog and Gun Inn and a member of Stanley of Bickerstaffe Lodge No 3511 for providing refreshments for the afternoon, his legendary chip butties. The formal presentation was then undertaken with Frank handing over the runners up shield to Stuart and presenting the Challenge Cup to John with his warmest congratulations. And just a mention regarding those menacing storm clouds, despite heavy down pours in the surrounding area, the green stayed dry throughout the afternoon much to everyone’s delight.


The first installation ceremony for Tarleton Lodge No 7871 as members of the newly amalgamated Ormskirk and Bootle Group of Lodges and Chapters was held at Park Hall Hotel, Charnock Richard. 40 members and guests, including two visiting masters, came together to see Stephen Dunn installed for the first time into the chair of King Solomon. The lodge was honoured by the presence of Roy Pyne as the representative of the Provincial Grand Master Tony Harrison. Roy was accompanied on the evening by grand officers Brian Fairhurst, Frank Umbers (Ormskirk and Bootle Group Chairman) and Malcolm Alexander (Ormskirk Group Secretary). Also in attendance was acting Provincial grand officer Malcolm Sandywell PrAGDC. John Webster installing master warmly welcomed everyone wishing them a pleasant evening saying that he looked forward to their company at the festive board later. Following the usual salutations and having had presented to him the master elect, John installed Stephen in a confident and sincere manner. Stephen was a former warder at Garth Prison and is now working as a self-employed builder. For the ceremony John was ably assisted by installing senior and junior wardens David Greenwood and Thomas Ryding respectively, with Russell Morris as inner guard; under the direction of DC James Wright and ADC John Simpson. The third, second and first degree tools were delivered by Eric Price, John Simpson and David Leech respectively, all of which were flawlessly given. The address to the master was presented by John Simpson with great sincerity and the address to the brethren was delivered by the guest of honour Roy. As the ceremony came to a close Roy congratulated Stephen on behalf of the Provincial Grand Master and wished him well for the year ahead. Roy also congratulated John Webster and the installation team on a fine ceremony. Stephen then had the pleasure of presenting Roy with

three cheques. The first being £300 to the Tercentenary Festival Appeal, £300 to Variety, the children’s charity and £200 to the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity. In response Roy thanked the brethren for their generosity on behalf of the recipients. Following the meeting an excellent festive board was enjoyed by all with good camaraderie and many new friendships made.

Stephen lays foundations as master

Roy (left) congratulates Stephen on becoming WM.

Pictured from left to right, are: Malcolm Sandywell, Frank Umbers, Roy Pyne, Stephen Dunn, John Webster, Brian Fairhurst and Malcolm Alexander.


Under clear skies, warm sunshine and a demanding breeze the annual Ormskirk and Bootle Group golf competition got under way at the well maintained Mossock Hall Golf Club in Bickerstaffe. On this occasion 26 contestants participated in what was a well organised competition. The event was in the capable hands of Gary Evans of Arthur Stanley Lodge No 3469. Two individual competitions were run on the day, one for non-Masons and one for Masons, and very competitive they both were. Brian Davies, non-Mason, who had recently retired from his position as chief petty officer in the Royal Navy having given 27 years’ service had the honour of teeing off.

During the afternoon the stiff breeze often presented a challenge to the competitors which

added humour amongst the players with golf balls constantly spinning out of control. At the end of the competition the player’s ranks were swelled when the Group Chairman Frank Umbers and others joined them for a well-earned drink at the nineteenth hole. Later after an excellent evening meal of mushroom soup, roast chicken, chips and vegetables, apple pie and custard followed by tea and coffee everyone participated in a game of ‘heads and tails’ to raise funds for the group charities. Frank thanked everyone for taking part and supporting the group in this annual event; he said there were many familiar faces, but it was good to see many more new players taking part, and commented that he was pleased to see that the numbers have risen every year. He also took the opportunity to thank Gary for organising the event, the staff at Mossock Hall for their hospitality on the day, and the catering staff for the excellent food which was enjoyed by everyone. Frank then had the pleasure of presenting the winners with their prizes: Nearest the pin combined Masons and non-Masons were first Dave Tomlinson, second Peter Tabern and third Graeme Kehoe. Frank then went on to present Danny Geraghty, non-Mason, with the award for the longest drive. The winner of the non-Masonic competition, which was very closely fought, was Paul Hindley. The winner of the Masonic competition, for the third year in a row, was Malcolm Sandywell of Stanley of Bickerstaffe Lodge No 3511 who defended his title with 41 points off a 19 handicap. In second place was Garry Norris of Rufford Lodge No 7217 on a score of 37. Malcolm was delighted to finally get his hands on the trophy for although having won it the previous two years the former winner Greg Pinnington had been reluctant to relinquish it from his grasp and like Aladdin’s lamp it will need some gentle rubbing to bring it back to its former glory. This competition has grown over the years and it is hoped that next year it will be enhanced further with support by members of the newly amalgamated Ormskirk and Bootle Group of Lodges and Chapters.

Group golf in full swing

Frank Umbers presents Malcolm with the winner’s trophy.

Ormskirk and Bootle group golf in full swing.


The brethren of Eureka Lodge No 3763 and their many guests recently gathered at Litherland Masonic Hall for the installation of John Lennon as their new worshipful master. For the evening, the lodge was honoured by the presence of the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Kevin Poynton, as their principle guest. Kevin was accompanied by the Ormskirk and Bootle Group Chairman, Frank Umbers. After the initial lodge business was completed the visitors were admitted into the temple, where the outgoing WM, Don Fraser, warmly welcomed the visiting brethren to the special evening, saying: “I am delighted to see everyone here tonight.” Don then opened the lodge to the second and third degree; where the director of ceremonies Stephen Bousfield announced that Kevin Poynton was without and demanded admission. Kevin was then admitted into the temple accompanied by the grand officers. Don warmly welcomed Kevin to the ceremony and offered him the gavel of the lodge, which he declined. The outgoing master Don proceeded to install John, according to ancient custom into the chair of King Solomon with in an excellent ceremony. The working tools were presented in a proficient manner by the brethren; Raymond Massey the third degree, Ken Rouse the second degree and Sidney Browne the first degree. Once the lodge’s officers had been invested, the address to the worshipful master was given by Stan Edwards, followed by the address to the wardens by Geoffrey Carr and the address to the brethren by Kevin Poynton; all delivered in their usual confident and excellent manner. At the end the ceremony of installation, Kevin addressed the brethren by bringing congratulations from the Provincial Grand Master, Tony Harrison, wishing John and all the brethren the very best of health and hoping they have a happy Masonic year. Kevin congratulated Don for the excellent and dignified manner in which he had installed John into the chair that evening and for all the work he has done for the lodge over the last year. Kevin then proceeded to congratulate all the brethren who had taken part in the ceremony. John then presented Kevin with a cheque for £167.50 for the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity and £250.00 for the Litherland Masonic Hall. Kevin thanked the lodge for their kind donations on behalf of the recipients, explaining that the donations made to the West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity help make the recipients lives much better. After closing the lodge in prayer and harmony the brethren made their way to an excellent festive board which was enjoyed by all. In responding to the toast to the grand officers, Kevin thanked John for the warm welcome that he and the grand officers had received from the lodge that evening and he was delighted to again praise the work undertaken by Don and the brethren in the ceremony. Before the evening’s festive board came to a close the master’s song was performed by Don Fraser, who was accompanied by Raymond Massey on the piano. During the evening a raffle was held raising £177 which will be

donated to various charities later in the year. With the evening finishing John pre-sented Kevin with a bouquet of flowers for his wife, before the principal guests retired, after an enjoya-ble evening in good company.

Eureka installs John as new master

Kevin Poynton, John Lennon and Don Fraser.

Kevin Poynton, John Lennon and Don Fraser with the Provincial team and grand officers.


SYNERGY - Ormskirk & Bootle Groupormskirkbootle.westlancsfreemasons.org.uk/wp-content/.../10/SYNERG… · SYNERGY Volume 1 Issue 1 October 2016 ... The members and many guests of

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