The Masonic Province of Devonshire

Members in Devon

Lodges in Devon

Provincial Meeting 25 April

Royal Arch Chapters

Members in Devon

Provincial Meeting 01 Nov.

News From around the Province

Lands End to John O'Groats Masonic cycle ride
W.Bro. Steve Robertson of St. Thomas, Exeter No. 4198 and Bro. Jeff Cooke (of Hertfordshire), have been friends since they were 12 years old and following their mammoth treck from Lands End to John O'Groats they are happy to report they still are!! (friends that is)

Their route included DAY 1 JOG to Helmsdale DAY 2 Helmsdale to Alness via Invergordon DAY 3 ALNESS to Fort Augustus DAY 4 Fort Augustus to Just North of OBAN DAY 5 OBAN to TARBERT DAY 6 TARBERT to LARNE via Isle of Arran - Ardrossan and a ferry from TROON DAY 7 LARNE to Loch Neagh south of LURGAN N.I. DAY 8 LURGAN to Annagassan south of DUNDALK DAY 9 ANNAGASSEN to DUBLIN and about 6 pints of the black stuff !!	NIGHT FERRY crossing Dublin to Birkenhead DAY 10 Birkenhead to Church Stretton DAY 11 Church Stretton to Monmouth DAY 12 Monmouth to Highbridge, Somerset DAY 13 Highbridge to Exeter - helped by a fantastic welcome at Pinhoe from Family, PGM and many friends DAY 14 Exeter to Camelford DAY 15 Camelford to Lands End, arrived at about 6 p.m.

They travelled on a total of 4 ferries: Cloanaig to Lochranza (Arran), Brodick (Arran)to Ardrossan Scotland, Troon to Larne Northern Ireland, and Dublin back to Birkenhead (Liverpool). Note all the ferries were East / West and NOT North / South so we did cycle the entire length of the UK. Visiting Scotland, Northern Ireland, Eire, Wales, England along the way! They carried all their camping equipment, cooking equipment, spare clothes etc. with them and were not followed by a safety/support vehicle, although they did have some get pretty close on the busy roads !! Talk about doing it the hard way! The trip was in support of two charities - Steve was collecting for The Children's Hospice South West at Little Bridge House and Jeff's was to raise money for St. Elizabeth's epilepsy centre in Much Haddam, Hertfordshire. To ensure that they kept their "vital fluids up" on the journey you can see from the photos that they did have a stop or two along the way !




Torbay Half Marathon
The Torbay Half Marathon was recently run with some 1600 athletes taking part. Among the runners were three Ambulance Paramedics from the Brixham station, all running on behalf of the Macmillan Cancer Care Nurses. They are Andrew Worden, Andrew Williams and Peter Jordan. They received some sponsorship from: Courtland Lodge 6706, Torbay Masters Lodge 8227 and Sanctuary Mark Lodge 1370. This, together with money collected from friends and family should enable them to present a cheque in the region of £750 to Macmillan Cancer Care. There was also a "Fun Run" of a mile around Paignton Green in which some 400 young athletes and Mums took part. Jim Jordan


Earl of Mount Edgcumbe Lodge 3924 sees triple!
	The Provincial Grand Master, who presided at the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe Lodge 3924, Installation Ceremony recently, saw WBro. John Baldry installed into the Masters Chair,by his brother, WBro P Baldry, who had been installed by his brother, WBro I Baldry. All three brothers are dedicated Masons, which was demonstrated on the night, with an attendance of one hundred and twelve brethren. I would warn all lodges to be prepared for some hilarious evenings, once W Bro John starts visting, (with the brothers Grim)( buy one get two free) and responding for the visitors, he always has a tale to tell and will warm your hearts. The officers and brethren of EOMEL 3924 wish him a happy and successful year. Vaughan Harris




Lodge of Harmony No. 372 - Budleigh Salterton
On the 16th February eighteen members of the Lodge of Harmony No.372 held an extra meeting for the benefit of the Residents at Cadogan Court under the direction of Worshipful Master Graham Snell and a total of eleven residents were able to attended the meeting. The Worshipful Master introduced a talk on Grand Lodge and " The Great Doors ". A collection was taken at the meeting which will be for the benefit of the residents. After the meeting the Brethren were treated to tea and cakes in the home. Shortly after at a very successful Ladies Night held at East Devon Golf Course, Budleigh Salterton, the Worshipful Master and his wife Caroline were pleased to announce that as a result of the raffle, they had raised just over £1000.00 to donate to BLESMA (The British Limbless Ex Service Mens Association ).


Torbay Hospitals' A & E Department is helped by Courtland Lodge No.6706
Torbay Hospitals' A & E Dep't is supported by Courtland Lodge No.6706. At a recent presentation, W.Bro.Ivan Ridgewell, the 2007 Worshipful Master of the Lodge presented a cheque for £1127 to Mr Andy Mortimore, the Manager of the A & E Department of Torbay Hospital. This sum, was the proceeds of W.Bro. Ivan and Mrs. Dawn Ridgewells' Ladies night and a Race Night held during his year as Master in 2007. Mr. Mortimore said that this money would enable him to purchase much needed equipment that was badly needed by the department. Torbay Roving Reporter Jim Jordan



Torbay Lodge helps South African Children
	Before Torbay Lodge's 29th April meeting, Aaron Lavin, a grandson of W Bro. Alan Kennett was presented with a cheque for £300. Aaron will be travelling to South Africa with a Churston Grammar School rugby team in the summer. The money raised by Torbay Lodge will go towards funding rugby equipment for some of the deprived South African townships teams they will be playing against. Bob Brewis Paignton Correspondent



WBro Lou Layman Celebrated 60 years in Freemasonry
On Monday 14th April 2008 W Bro Lewis Leyman celebrated 60 years in Masonry. To mark the occasion W Bro Leyman was presented with a Certificate by W Bro Colin Turner Assistant Provincial Grand Master. Due to recent ill health W Bro Leyman has been unable to attend Lodge so the presentation took place at his home in Exeter; also present was the Worshipful Master of St John the Baptist Lodge No. 39 W Bro Maurice Jeffreys. W Bro Leyman was initiated at the age of 21 years and 12 days into De La Pole Lodge No. 1181 on 14th April 1948 and in the same year became a joining member of St Margaret’s Lodge No. 6129. He was WM of St Margaret’s in 1968 and also served as DC, Treasurer and Secretary. He was MEZ of St John the Baptist Chapter No. 39 in 1990 and 1995. In 1995 he joined St John the Baptist Lodge No. 39. W Bro Leyman also holds the Provincial Grand Master’s Certificate of Service and the Grand Superintendent’s Certificate of Merit.



9th Annual Tresco Marathon – Sunday 13th April 2008
	The Tresco Marathon is a unique annual event that is held on the same day and time as the London Marathon. All of the proceeds of the Marathon go towards gene therapy research for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. This year W.Bro. Richard Selby of Rolle Lodge No. 2759 decided to take part in the event. Once he received the confirmation of entry Richard started in earnest with his training, which included the infamous “Grizzly” multi-terrain race in East Devon. It has been over twenty years since he had run the last of his seven marathons although he has continued to compete in road races at much short distances. Richard got off to a good start as the field of 136 runners set off at 09:30. He was keeping pace with the top five runners over the first few laps and then settled into a good rhythm with his wife Jayne and friends Valerie and Steven providing support from the sidelines and the odd handful of jelly babies. There are no cars allowed on Tresco only golf buggy type vehicles. So the course is a circular concrete path that mainly
follows the coastline. At the halfway point Richard was well within his predicted time and looked very comfortable. The course was described as undulating but it had two steep hills that got longer as the race progressed. Although Richard did not walk at any point, the hills at the latter part of the race were challenging. As you can image it took a lot of careful monitoring when the course is run over seven laps. As a spectator it was difficult to follow the runners’ positions. The finish was at the exclusive Tresco Island hotel and Richard managed a very creditable time of 3:26:21 in tenth position overall this is an excellent finish for a athlete of Richard’s maturity! Richard would like to give a hearty and fraternal thanks to all those who sponsored him for the event and he has raised well over £600 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. Bro Steven Sugden Rolle Lodge No 2759


A busy time at Paignton

Wednesday 16th April, 37 members of the Torbay Masonic Widows' Association, (out of 41!) attended a Spring Lunch, at Courtland Road, Paignton, expertly cooked by Bro.Basil Ashling, now Master Elect of Seven Hills. Our New Chairman, Mrs. Margaret Stafford, had asked for a Yellow Spring theme, so we had Yellow table cloths and pot plants for raffle prizes and Basil produced Yellow Melon starters, Spring Lamb and Chocolate Profiteroles for dessert. Everyone agreed that it had been a lovely meeting. They have already decided to have a buffet lunch in September and have invited other Branches to attend. They have also booked seats for the theatre to see South Pacific in May and are planning future coach trips.
	On Thursday, 17th April, the Teignbridge Branch, invited Lodge Almoners and Liaison Officers, to their Spring lunch, where a choice of menu was offered, with a glass of wine. Mike Turner gave a talk on the Cavitron Fund, which was most interesting and informative and I'm sure that none of the listeners had any idea that Plymouth was now leading the world in Neurosurgery & Research and that there were now some eight top surgeons based there. Another interesting fact that came out was that our late, Deputy Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro.Frank Prout had been a very keen supporter and had been on the Executive of the Charity.
On Friday 18th of April, the" Square Friends" of the late W.Bro.John Dodwell, met at the Torquay United football ground, to present sports equipment, worth £1000 i.e. balls and goal nets, to the Torquay United Youth Development scheme. This money had been raised by a sponsored football match (the 5th) by Freemasons of Torbay. The Youth Club trainer, Matt Williams, received the equipment from W.Bro.J.L.Attwood ,the Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master, and several members of Courtland Lodge 6706 together with their wives, who all enjoyed a buffet lunch provided by the Club. Torbay Roving Reporter Jim Jordan.



The Ricky Grant Day Care Unit Presentation
	The Worshipful Master of The Dart Lodge 2641, W.Bro Stephen Reading presents an envelope containing a number of cheques totalling £1,800 to Mr Lee Merry of The Ricky Grant Day Care Unit at Torbay Hospital on Tuesday 8 April 2008. This princely sum has been raised through the generosity of the membership of The Dart Lodge 2641, The Lodge of The Seven Hills 6857, Tormohun Lodge 6449, Jordan Lodge 1402, The Lodge of St Mary 5148, Churston Ferrers Lodge 8779 and The True Love and Unity Lodge 248. Also pictured is Mrs Sue Langman who is a long term cancer sufferer and who regards the Ricky Grant Day Care Unit as her `second home`. Sue was the inspiration behind the donations. She approached her good friends, W.Bro Harry Escott (of The Dart Lodge 2641) and his wife Jo who then raised the matter with the Lodge Charity Steward, W.Bro. Chris Tucker. Chris did `the Donkey Work` - approaching the other donor lodges for contributions.
The donation is to go towards a piece of very specialised equipment which scans a route through the renal system to the chest cavity and the feed to deliver specialised cancer drugs with minimal risk and discomfort to the patient. This equipment costs in the region of £12,000 and is sorely needed by the unit. The presentation was attended by Andrew Land ofThe Lodge of The Seven Hills, Neil Price of Tormohun Lodge, George Tricker and Chris Wood of Jordan Lodge (in the picture). Also in attendance was Harry Escott and his wife Jo, Chris Tucker and Mrs Jean Reading.


"Help For Heroes" donation from Plymouth Lodges
	Members of the charity Help for Heroes received a cheque for £1010.00 for the fund at the Royal Marines Barracks, Stonehouse, Plymouth from the Royal Marines Plymouth Lodge, St Georges Mark Lodge and others. This amount was raised from social events such as the version of Horse Racing as played by the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. This money will be added to the amount already raised toward the target of £5 million to build a swimming pool at Headley Court Tri-Service Rehabilitation Centre near Leatherhead Surrey. The charity Help for Heroes was set up by members of the public and ex-servicemen wishing to help those injured soldiers on their return to the UK. Supporters include Jeremy Clarkson and the Princes William and Harry and has already reached in excess of £3.3 million. Liz Gedrych of "Help for Heroes" received the cheque: also pictured are Carole Dinham, Doug Taylor, WBro Cliff Hartley, WBro Tony Davison, WBro Mel Bettell, Bro Sandy Macleod, Lt Col Martin Taylor RM, Capt Chris Hill RM, and Lt. Keiran Ashcroft RM.
A former Colour Sergeant, Sandy MacLeod BEM MSM, a member of Royal Marines Lodge Plymouth, said that the swimming pool will give much-needed help to the wounded returning from such places as Iraq and Afghanistan as they currently have to be bussed to a public swimming pool where they have been subjected to abuse by some of the civilian customers. Mr MacLeod and the members of Royal Marines Plymouth Lodge are intending to raise more money for Help for Heroes by holding other events in the future.


Courtland Lodge does it again!
Once again Courtland Lodge has made an official presentation to the Province of £1000. This took place on Thursday 13 March at Courtland Road, PAIGNTON. The cheque was presented by W.Bro.Peter Carrick to W.Bro.Derek Webber, Assistant Provincial Grand Master and was for the 2012 Festival, bringing Courtlands donation up to some £18000 so far. The money was raised in part (£500) by a sponsored football match at Torquay United. This was the fifth such match, all in memory of the late W.Bro. John Dodwell who sadly passed away in Lodge in March 2003. John had been an avid supporter of United since 1948. At every one of these five matches Torquay has won and we expect approaches now from other teams who could do with a win, Yeovil and Chelsea to name but two. (Ha Ha). This year 40 members and friends, from seven local lodges including Jordan, Torbay and Courtland enjoyed an evening meal, wine and a fine match. These "Square Friends" of John Dodwell, have so far raised over £8000 and have made donations to such worthy causes as Cheshire Home Brixham, Loop System for Courtland Road, Loop system for blind fans at Torquay United, Torquay United Youth development programme, Torquay United football in the Community project, The Trevor Ward foundation, The Dame Hannah Rogers School, The Kevin Hill Trust and of course the R.M.T.G.B. The Brethren who have taken the time and effort to organise these occasions should be mentioned and our thanks go to W.Bro.T.A.Dodwell, W.Bro.D.Froud and W.Bro.A.M.Dewis. Report by our Paignton reporterJim Jordan



Prestonian Lecture News
Applications for tickets to the 2008 Prestonian Lecture, hosted by the Torbay Masters No.8227 can be downloaded here and returned to Wbro Jim Jordan or W.Bro. Kit LeMarquand to the address on the form.



North Devon Masters Lodge Banner Dedication
“This Banner highlights the spirit of adventure that this Lodge shows today”. These were the words used to describe the new Banner of North Devon Masters Lodge No: 9316 at their meeting on Tuesday 19th February 2008. The Lodge was honoured by the presence of The Provincial Grand Master and a veritable bevy of Provincial Officers at the commemoration meeting in Barnstaple and Rt.W.Bro, Penny gave a most memorable explanation of the emblems on the new Banner of which the most predominant feature is a Puffin, a bird which is native to the North Devon Island of Lundy, and he thanked W.Bro. Eddie Dymond who had donated the Banner. The Deputy Provincial Grand Chaplain, W. Bro. Raymond Bray then gave a superb Oration on the history of Banners in general together with a brief history of North Devon Masters Lodge.
	It was in this history that W.Bro. Bray referred to the adventurous spirit of the Lodge who have held their meeting in numerous venues around the division and have included with those meetings excursions to such places as The North Somerset Railway, Lundy Island and Tiverton Canal. At the Festive Buffet following the meeting the W.M., W.Bro.Peter Goffin referred to the evening as “ A very special night in the history of our Lodge” and proposed the toast to the P.G.M who responded with what must have been the shortest response ever heard, just the words “Thank You”! Alan Cockman

St. Margaret's Lodge No. 6128Ladies Night At a very successful Ladies Night held at the Devon Hotel Exeter, the Master of the Lodge, W.Bro. Geoff Pring and his Lady were able to donate the total proceedings from the event to Exeter Hospice and Branch House. Pictured left is Geoff and Sandra and the boys - making it a true family affair! Martin Heskins



Presentation by Torbay Lodge No 1358
	The Worshipful Master of Torbay Lodge No 1358, W Bro Roger Sheldon, presents a cheque for £700 to Mr Jim Delves the local area Chairman of the Alzheimer Society. The money was raised at the Installation meeting in November and Mr Delves asked if the presentation could be made at the Lodge. This is another fine example of Lodges connecting with the Community. Prior to the formal opening of the Lodge, Mr Delves was invited into the Temple and, to a capacity gathering of 78 brethren, recounted the tragic circumstances which surrounds this terrible illness. A startling fact is that around 2,600 people in Torbay alone suffer from the disease. WBro. Bob Brewis

W.Bro. Frank Rowe’s 60 years in Freemasonry Brotherly love, was the order of the night on the 17th Jan, at Davy Masonic Hall, when the Brethren of the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe Lodge 3924, and Distinguished Guests, gathered to celebrate W.Bro. Frank Rowe’s 60 years in Freemasonry. Frank William Rowe, was born in 1923, to proud father W.Bro William James Rowe, who was master of the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe Lodge, in 1932. Having nurtured his son to maturity (mum did assist here and there), William introduced Frank to Masonry, and on the 15th January 1948, Frank was Initiated into the Lodge. In 1960 Frank had the honour of being Master of the Lodge, and hosted a Ladies Night at Dingles Dartmoor Restaurant, there were 82 guests, and tickets were 15 shillings and 6 pence a head (75 pence new money), they consumed 14 bottles of No10 amounting to 11 pounds 18 shillings, Brandy and Liqueurs were 4 pounds 9 shillings and 6 pence, and a luxury not permitted today, 150 cigarettes costing 1 pound 10 shillings and 7 pence. They obviously set the trend for today’s Ladies Nights. Not one to be idle after passing the chair, Frank was made DC in 1963, and held the office until 1976. (those of you who know Frank, know his son Simon has followed in his footsteps, Frank sometimes extols the achievements of Simon, of whom he is justly proud).
Frank received Provincial recognition in 1969 being appointed to Assistant Prov. Grand Pursuivant. In 1971 further honours followed when Frank was made Past Prov Dep Grand Registrar, and again in 1979, promoted to Past Prov Junior Grand Warden. Having trained a suitable successor as DC in the lodge, Frank then became our Chaplain from 1977 until 2003. Frank has introduced many distinguished Members into Masonry, including one of the current Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro. Eglinton, who had the pleasure of presenting Frank with a Certificate of Service on the night. Many words of praise by several people were given on the night along with some embarrassing tales, which made for a wonderful evening, and on behalf of all there we wish Frank many more happy years in Freemasonry. (possibly seeing the next generation of Rowes, join!) Vaughan Harris


Ambulance Chief welcomes lifesaving equipment from local Freemasons
On behalf of the Devonian Chapter of First Principals No. 9249, the Second Provincial Grand Principal E. Comp. Terry Downe has presented a cheque for more than £3,000.00, for the purchase of two further Schiller ECG machines one to be used in a fast response vehicle in Plymouth, the other in the Torquay area. This adds to similar equipment already given to the Ambulance Trust with money so kindly donated to the M.E. Grand Superintendents fund, received from the various Chapters throughout the Province.
	E.Comps Terry Downe, said, “We are delighted to be assisting the South Western Ambulance Service by providing potentially life saving equipment which will benefit local people across the region. It is also beneficial to members of operational staff working at the front line, in terms of diagnosis and we look forward to continue pledging our support in the future.” The Trust’s Chief Executive Ken Wenman was extremely grateful to the Order in general and the Chapter in particular for their ongoing generosity and said, “I would like to sincerely thank Terry, Bob and all the Royal Arch Masons of Devon who have given to the Trust so generously and continue to pledge support to both our staff and to people living in the local communities.
Pictured above, E.Comps Terry Downe & Bob Munroe with the WCAS’s Chief Executive, Ken Wenman presenting him with the cheque to fund a further two ECG machines. Pictured right: From left to right – Alan Green, Clinical Support Officer based in Paignton, Maurice Smith, A Provincial Officer, Terry Downe, Second Provincial Grand Principle, Alex Willcocks, Clinical Support Officer based at Torquay and Bob Munroe, Provincial Officer. Any current First Principal or Past First Principals who would like more information about joining The Devonian Chapter of First Principals No. 9249, who meet at venues across the Province, should contact E.Comp. Fred Coombs on 01395 263903



	Sea Scouts and Sports Clubs benefit from Paignton Masons A most unusual presentation took place at the recent Christmas meeting of Courtland Lodge. This presentation was made during "Calling Off" in the main Lodge room at Courtland Road, in the presence of W.Bro.Derek Webber, Assistant Provincial Grand Master and Right W.Bro. R.O.Osborn, Past Provincial Grand Master. The Paignton Sea Scouts were given £300 worth of radio equipment and distress flares for their boat and Tim Ward was presented with a cheque for £100 from Courtland Lodge 6706 and £100 from Torbay Masters Lodge 8227 on behalf of the Trevor Ward Foundation. Trevor Ward had been a teacher at Paignton School and coached both Paignton Cricket and Rugby Teams, both of which he also played for. In memory of him the foundation was set up to improve the coaching and sports equipment for the young sports enthusiasts of Torbay. Jim Jordan


Torbay Masonic Widows' Association
Thirty-four members of the Torbay Masonic Widows' Association recently met for their annual Christmas Lunch. Their Christmas fare was ably cooked by Bro.Basil Ashling (89) and all the ladies received a voucher and a Christmas gift. The Masonic Masonic Widows' Assosiation is always looking for new members (!)

Jim Jordan

Local Masons Honoured
W.Bro. Stephen Reading, P.Pr.Asst.G.Reg of The Dart Lodge No.2641 being presented with the Pingat Jasa Malaysia Medal by Colonel Tajri, the Defence Attache of the Malaysian High Commission in London. The Colonel, a cousin of the King of Malaysia, presented it to W.Bro Reading on his behalf. The award is in recognition of his Royal Air Force service in Singapore and Malaysia during the Indonesian Confrontation Emergency in the 1960`s. W.Bro. Reading was honoured with this award on 5 November 2007 at the Stonehouse Creek Leisure and Social Club in Plymouth. W.Bro Reading was the Centenary Master of The Dart Lodge No.2641 and has recently been elected to serve the Lodge once more as its Master in 2008/2009. He will, once again, be installed into the Chair of the Lodge on 23 January 2008. W. Bro. Reading is also the Almoner of Hauley Chapter 797 and The Dartmouth Lodge of Mark Master Masons 737. Also presented with the Medal on 5 November 2007 in Plymouth, was W.Bro. Roy Potter (P.Pr.G.Reg) of The Dart Lodge 2641. He served in the Royal Navy during the Malaya Emergency in the 1950`s and also the Indonesian Confrontation Emergency in the 1960`s. W.B. Potter is also a member of Hauley Chapter 797 and a member of The Dartmouth Lodge of Mark Master Masons 737.


Busy time at Paignton On 11th October W.Bro.M.P.W.Carrick P.Ass't.G.D.C. celebrated his 40th anniversary in Freemasonry at Courtland Lodge 6706, Paignton. This was marked by a presentation of a silver salver, crystal decanter and whisky glasses. The presentation was made on behalf of the Lodge by W.Bro.P.R.Galt the Deputy Provincial Grand Master.

Also, on the 6th November, W.Bro.Paul Brown the Master of Torbay Masters Lodge 8227 presented a cheque for £200 to Bro Ted Jones the Treasurer of the local British Heart Foundation and on Saturday 3rd November, W.Bro.Brown and his wife Susy hosted an informal Ladies Night at Courtland Road, PAIGNTON. A small raffle was held and a £100 was raised. This sum will be presented to The Trevor Ward Foundation at Courtland Lodges' meeting on December 13th. Jim Jordan

Lodge of Benevolence No 489
The Lodge of Benevolence No 489 cast aside their proud Bideford history for one night when they donned the garb of Pearly Kings and Queens and hosted an evening of Cockney Songs with audience participation. The songs included such old favourites as “Maybe it’s because I’m a Londoner”, “We’ll meet again” and “Underneath the Arches” and the singing was led by The Bridgelanders, Benevolence’s own choral group dressed in appropriate Garb with loud accompaniment (if sometimes a little out of tune) by the capacity audience.
	Refreshments of roast potatoes, pie and mash potatoes with mushy peas were served up at half time and not only was a great time had by all but the W.M., W.Bro. Colin Lovering was able to present a cheque of £550 to Dr. Robin Buckland of the Children’s Holiday Foundation in North Devon, an organisation which he set up 14 years ago, which takes children with life threatening illness or major disabilities on the holiday of a lifetime to Florida.

100 Not Out!! for W. BRO. W. R. G. LINE, P.PR.J.G.W.
The regular Lodge meeting of Lodge St. John, No. 70 on Thursday 4thJuly 2007 was unique in the Lodge’s 248 year history. The Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Nigel J. Frude had the very great pleasure of welcoming into the Lodge W. Bro. William R. G. Line, P.Pr.J.G.W. to celebrate his 100th Birthday – the first member of 70 to pass that milestone. A large number of brethren were present together with W. Bro. Maurice Eglintgon, P.S.G.D., Assistant Provincial Grand Master and Rt.W. Bro. Robin O. Osborne, Past Provincial Grand Master. After the Lodge was opened, Rt. W. Bro. Robin Osborne rose and addressed the Lodge, firstly alluding to the earlier presentation of a Provincial Grand Master’s Certificate of 60 years service to Freemasonry to W. Bro. Bill and then paid generous tribute to his long and distinguished time as a Mason. W. Bro. Bill Line had been Initiated into Lodge St. John, No. 70 on the 4th January 1944 and, due entirely to the large membership in those days, had to wait no less than 25 years before being installed into the Chair of the Lodge and now, 5 Monarchs and 9 Provincial Grand Masters later, Rt. W. Bro. Osborne was delighted to present him with a commemorative plaque on behalf of his many friends in Freemasonry and his friends and Brethren in Lodge St. John, No. 70 in particular.	W. BRO. W.R.G. Line being presented with a commemorative plaque by RT. W. BRO. R. O. Osborne
W. Bro. Bill rose and spoke of his many happy memories of his time in his beloved Lodge and the many other Lodges and Orders of which he had been privileged to serve as organist. He regretted that his health would not allow him to attend his Lodge as often as he would wish, but expressed the hope that he would be able to join with his Brethren at the celebrations for the Lodge’s 250th anniversary in 2009. W.Bro. Bill Seymour-Jones


A Special Double for Sun Lodge No.106 Exmouth At the August meeting of Sun Lodge a special occasion occurred when W.Bro. Keith (Keito) Graham took the chair and initiated his sons Michael and Mathew. This is the first occasion the Lodge has held a double first degree ceremony since 13 February 1989 when W.Bro. Tony Jeffery (our current Director of Ceremonies) and his son Ian were initiated by the then WM (W.Bro. Dennis May) W.Bro D Greenaway

Prestonian Lecturer

On Tuesday 4th September, Torbay Masters Lodge 8227 were hosts to Rt.Wor. Bro.Dr.R.B.Khambatta the Prestonian Lecturer for 2007; The Past District Grand Master of Pakistan.
Whilst this was not an "official" lecture, there was a full house to hear a very interesting talk on Grand Secretaries from 1813 to 1980.
In attendance were W.Bro.P.Louis Baycock and W.Bro.Derek Webber the Assistant Provincial Grand Masters and Rt.Wor.Bro. Robin Osborn the Past Provincial Grand Master.
After the meeting at the Festive Board,the Lecturer was presented with a copy of the History of the Province of Devonshire which had been signed by the 3 attending Grand Lodge Officers and he was also presented with a cheque for £200 by the Worshipful Master W.Bro.Paul Brown, for the Charity of his choice.

Jim Jordan P.Pr.J.G.W.
Torbay Masters Lodge

Kindred Lodges Association (KLA) Autumn Festival

The (KLA) was formed in 1952 to encourage Masonic Lodges formed by, or including, Masons who are, or were, involved in Youth Work to link together. The prime activity, other than encouraging inter Lodge visiting, is to hold two Festival meetings each year. The dress for these meetings is the uniform of their youth organisation for those entitled to wear it.
On the Saturday 8th September 2007 the Brownsea Island Lodge no 9689 (Province of Dorset) hosted the Autumn Festival of the The Kindred Lodges Association.
Several things made this meeting very special, Brownsea Island is the site of the Baden-Powells experimental Scout Camp that occured 100 years ago in August 1907 and Brownsea Island Lodge, who usually meet at Wareham, Dorset had arranged this meeting actually on the Island.
The Scout Lodge no 9783 is a member lodge of the KLA and took 10 members and 1 future joining member along for the day. (The largest representation from any visiting Lodge) We joined nearly 170 other Masons from all over the Country at the quay in Poole and were ferried across to Brownsea Island. After the opportunity to explore the Island and enjoy an excellent packed lunch, it was time for the Lodge to meet in a large marquee in the middle of the Island. Only then did some appreciate how important this meeting was to those there, Scout Uniform was worn by a good half of those there including the Master and many of his Officers of the Brownsea Island Lodge. The host Lodge delivered an excellent lecture on the first Scout Camp made all the better knowing it had occurred a mere handful of yards away.
Returning to the mainland a Festive Board was enjoyed by the Brethren and £2000 was raised towards supporting the continuing development of Scouting and Guiding facilities on Brownsea Island
Membership of the KLA is either through being a member of a subscribing member lodge, or as an individual Associate Member. Although we'd be delighted if you wished to join The Scout Lodge we'd be pleased if Brethren in the Province interested in Scouting and other youth organisations became Associate Members. If interested in finding out more about the KLA or in joining us at the next KLA Festivals - April 12th 2008 Compass no 8765, Leicestershire and Autumn 2008: Red Scarf no 8448, London, please contact Mark Bendell enquiries@thescoutlodge.org.uk, or visit our website www.thescoutlodge.org.uk

St. Johns Lodge 328 150th Anniversary
At the last meeting of St. Johns Lodge No. 328 our labour was to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the laying of the Foundation Stone of our lodge building in Parkhill Road, Torquay. R.W.Bro. Robin O Osborn attended the ceremony and also assumed control of the Lodge during the re-enactment. Bro. Eric Rose.

The Devonshire Demonstration Team

The Devonshire Demonstration Team will be performing an 18th Century enactment of a First Degree ceremony at the following Lodges.
in 2007.
Tuesday 11th December at Devon Lodge No 1138, meeting in Newton Abbot.
and in 2008 venues include:
1) Friday 8th February, at Molesworth Lodge Wadebridge.
2) Tuesday 19th February, at North Devon Masters, Barnstable.
3) Thursday 1st May, Towan Lodge, Newquay.
4) Friday 3rd October, Caradon Lodge, Saltash.

Brethren wishing a most enjoyable evening, please contact the lodge secretary. Lodges interested in booking the team please contact the team secretary W.Bro. Keith Vallance, kavallance@blueyonder.co.uk 2009 is nearly fully booked and enquiries are being made of 2010, so please don't leave it until the last minute.

Keith Vallance.
DDT Secretary.

Devonshire's New Provincial Grand Master

Rt. W. Bro. Michael T. Penny was installed into the office of Provincial Grand Master for Devonshire at a meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge on the 3rd July 2007, held in the Great Hall, Exeter University. The meeting was officiated by the R.W. Bro. The Deputy Grand Master, Peter Lowndes

Following his installation, The new Provincial Grand Master, appointed W.Bro. Peter Galt, PSGD, as Deputy Provincial Grand Master. He then reappointed W.Bro. Colin Turner P.S.G.D., W.Bro. Rev. P. Louis Baycock, P.S.G.D. and W.Bro. Maurice Eglinton P.S.G.D, as Assistant Provincial Grand Masters. The Provincial Grand Master then appointed W.Bro. Derek Webber, P.A.G.D.C., of Churston Ferrers Lodge No. 8779, also, as an Assistant Provincial Grand Master.

Following the new Executive appointments, The Provincial Grand Master appointed
W.Bro. Peter Keaty, PProvGSwdB, as the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies.

Rt. W. Bro. Michael T. Penny then addressed the Brethren details of which can be found on the Annual Address page.






Installation photos by W.Bro. Steve Waterhouse, PPrJGD

Hauley Lodge No 797 – August 13th 2007

A somewhat rare Masonic occasion took place at the August meeting of Hauley Lodge No. 797 at Hauley Hall, Dartmouth.

The Worshipful Master, WBro Stuart Bilverstone initiated his younger brother, Andrew into the Lodge.

Present at the meeting were some 90 members and their guests, including W.Bro. Derek Webber the newly installed Assistant Provincial Grand Master and many Grand Officers and present and past members of Provincial Grand Lodge.

Adding to the already emotional nature of the meeting was the presence of WBro Brian Ridalls PGJD for the first time in 3 years due to illness and the sad loss of his dear wife Christine.

At the end of the Festive Board, various coaches return Brethren back to their mother lodges duly refreshed and with many a happy smile!

15 Masters on one night!

At a recent meeting of Rolle Lodge No.2759 at Exmouth ,over one hundred Masons attended the meeting including 15 Installed Masters from across Devon. Rolle's Master, W.Bro John Coulthard, thinks that 15 visiting Masters at one meeting may be a record (unless you know better??)

Fortunately, they didn't all make a speech at the Festive Board !

St John the Baptist Lodge No. 39 275th Anniversary
On Thursday the 26th July 2007 St John the Baptist Lodge No. 39 celebrated 275 years of continuous working in Exeter. At a special meeting the Lodge was supported by the Grand Junior Warden of the United Grand Lodge of England, Rt. W Bro Captain Norman Lloyd-Edwards. Rt. W Bro Lloyd-Edwards informed the Lodge that he was present at the express wish of the Grand Master. He spoke in glowing terms of the diligence and commitment the Lodge had shown during its long and distinguished history, being the oldest Lodge outside London. The Lodge was further honoured by the presence of Rt .W Bro MT Penny Provincial Grand Master, W Bro P Galt Deputy Provincial Grand Master, W Bro CC Turner, W Bro Rev PL Baycock, W Bro M Eglinton and W Bro D Webber Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, Rt W Bro RO Osborn Past Provincial Grand Master, W Bro RDM Penny Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master and W Bro M St J French Assistant Grand Registrar. Also present were W Bro I Kingsbury Provincial Senior Grand Warden, W Bro Colin James Provincial Junior Grand Warden together with many officers of Provincial Grand Lodge. W Bro P Galt read the Warrant of Deputation of the Lodge. It is one of only four of its kind known to exist and is the oldest of those four. It is the only document known to bear the signature of the then Grand Secretary, W Bro Will Reid. The Lodge was pleased to receive a brief history written and delivered by W Bro John Cornish PAGDC and an Oration given by W Bro Rev G Usher Provincial Grand Chaplain, both of which were received with much applause. Following the meeting the Brethren enjoyed a sumptuous banquet after which the Junior Grand Warden and the Provincial Grand Master both spoke of their pleasure at being able to support the Lodge on this very special occasion.	Grand Junior Warden of the United Grand Lodge of England, Rt W Bro Captain Norman Lloyd-Edwards; Master of the St John the Baptist Lodge No. 39. David Richards; Provincial Grand Master of Devonshire, Rt W Bro MT Penny.
An evening full of reflection on 275 years service, diligence and commitment was passed in peace order and harmony with much innocent mirth and fraternal good humour.

Devon Masonic Golf Charity Association
	The Devon Masonic Golf Society met for it's Autumn Meeting at Honiton Golf Club on 16th August . Forty four brethren from across Devon competed for the Devon Masonic Championship Cup which was retained by last years winners W.Bro. Badcock and W.Bro.Nicol as well as raising considerable sums for various lodge charities. Unfortunately the day was not blessed with typical August weather and the competitors had to contend with sudden squally showers which meant that umbrellas went up and down quicker than the Wardens columns, but a good day was had by all with old freindships rekindled and new ones made. After the competition the brethren partook of a splendid festive board which led to many belts being let out. The Spring Meeting will be on the 22nd May 2008 at Stover Golf Course and new members will be most welcome to join us. At this meeting there will also be a presentation to the 2012 Festival. information can be obtained from the Secretary, W.Bro Nigel Adkins, Yew Trees, Clyst St George, Exeter, EX3 0RE. tel 01395 874114 or contact Bro. Martin Gill (6228) for further details

2007 WAKE Fund Distributions Torbay Masters Lodge 8227 and Courtland Lodge 6706
On Friday the 13th July, The Provincial Grand Master, Rt.W.Bro. Michael Penny accompanied by W.Bro. Rev. Louis Baycock, and W.Bro.Derek Webber, distributed several thousands of pounds to the recipients of the W.A.K.E fund at the Masonic Hall Exmouth. W.Bro.Kit Le Marquand and W.Bro.Jim Jordan had the pleasure of accompanying Sister Janet Palmer the Senior Sister of the John Parkes Childrens Unit at Torbay Hospital. This unit cares for physicaly and mentaly disabled children from birth to 19 years of age and offers respite care for many others. This unit, which received its second donation this year of £500, has been supported over the last two years jointly by Torbay Masters Lodge 8227 and Courtland Lodge 6706 who have made several donations from raffles and Sunday Lunches and have also collected huge quantities of used postage stamps for the children. J.Jordan
Royal Marines Plymouth Lodge No 9528
	The Royal Marines Plymouth Lodge No 9528 have adopted and supported their local Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps unit based in Stonehouse Barracks, Plymouth for many years. Recently the Lodge has been successful in petitioning for a donation of £750 from the WAKE Fund for the cadets through the successful application of Almoner Bro Sandy MacLeod BEM MSM a former Royal Marine Colour Sergeant and our Charity Steward WBro Cliff Hartley. The Lodge has added to this £250 to round the sum up to £1000.00 with money raised in the Lodge. The cheques were presented to the Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps at the top of the Dewerstone Rock on the edge of Dartmoor close to Bickleigh Barracks home of 42 Commando RM. The reason for this unusual presentation venue is that for many years Royal Marines would have to run to the top of the Dewerstone in order to collect their pay. History (almost) repeating itself !

Leading from the Front
On the evening of the 25th Anniversary of the re-capture of the Falkland Islands, Wbro. John Ginty was installed into the Master’s Chair of the Per Mare Per Terram Lodge No. 9355. For John, this was the fifth time he was Installed into the Masters Chair. Initiated in to Middlesex Century Lodge No. 5837 in 1989, he rose to the Masters Chair in 1997 and then went onto serve as Master of the Service in Unity Lodge No. 7843 (London) , Wexham Park Lodge No. 8171 (Bucks), St. Andrews Lodge No. 4097 (Devonshire) and now Per Mare Per Terram No. 9355 (Devonshire), which maybe a record for a record for a Devonshire Mason. The Per Mare Per Terram Lodge was founded primarily for former Royal Marines, and members of the Armed Services that have served along side the Corps. The Armed Services have always produced a high numbers of Masonic Candidates, especially the Royal Marines, of which John formally served as a Drum Major until 1981. Pictured below is John during his career in the Royal Marines and also on the night of his fifth Installation.

Rocking Freemasons
At a recent ladies evening at St Georges Lodge No.112 Exeter, W.Bro. Clifford Earp arranged an evening of Music with Masonic connections with pieces by Mozart, Sir Arthur Sullivan (former Grand Organist) and others. The Lodge was surprised to hear the Rock and Roll sound of "Route 66", popularised by Nat "King" Cole, who was a keen Mason.


The piece was sung by our newest initiate, Oliver Stirling, accompanied by Reuben Ayres on guitar and John Thompson (bass). The drums were played by Reuben's son Jake (16) and Polly Thompson (14) played electric piano, who both thoroughly enjoyed a festive board with the ladies and members of the Lodge held by the Master, Chris Elliott.

Devonshire Masonic Widows Association

Devonshire Masonic Widows Association

The photo above was taken at Provincial Grand Lodge on 21st.April 2007. The PGM meets with representatives from the nine branches of the Devonshire Masonic Widows Associations. Later, Provincial Grand Lodge was "Call Off" and they were welcomed into the meeting at Exeter University to hear a brief talk about The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys given by V.W.Bro. Andrew Stebbings, President. Prior to the meeting the Ladies attended the Provincial Luncheon and were warmly received by our PGM and the Brethren.

C.C.T.

Lodge of Good Intention No 6927

The members and visitors of the Lodge of Good Intention No 6927, Barnstaple witnessed an unusual if not unique event in its history at their installation in April.

W.Bro. Anthony Stevens was installed as the 57th master of that Lodge and he was the third member of the same family to attain the chair of King Soloman in that Lodge. His father, W.Bro. Eric Stevens became Master of the Lodge of Good Intention in 1983, and his brother W.Bro. Clem Stevens not only became Master of 6927 in 1997 but he also initiated Anthony into that Lodge in that year.

The Installation was also made special by the final visit to the Lodge by the Provincial Grand Master Rt.W.Bro. Robin Osborne and the Lodge members made a presentation to him of a Large Dartington Glass Fruit Bowl to mark the occasion.