24th February 2026

Bro. Matthew Hawes is led into the light with Lymington Lodge No. 7984

Another great Ceremony of Initiation held at Lymington Lodge No.7984 this week just past, as Bro. Matthew Hawes received his Entered Apprentice apron.

Bro. Matt demonstrated clear confidence as JD Bro. Dean Vondlandau led him on his perambulations, with WM W.Bro. Mark Holland showing his extensive knowledge of the ceremony, including the North East Corner given from the Chair of King Solomon.

The tools were again word perfect by Bro. John Chugg, and the Charge after Initiation by Bro. Ali Longworth.

It was a family affair with Bro. Matt’s Uncle, W.Bro. Phil Hewer all the way from Essex looked on with immense pride!

Afterwards it was a boisterous Festive Board, with Bro. Matt showing a clear indication to really wanting to learn as much as he can with all to do with Freemasonry, and £191 raised for charity.

This Friday saw the Lymington Masonic Centre host a successful “Dine A Friend” evening.

An opportunity for non-masons to be invited along to have a short presentation shown to answer those misconceptions and queries people may have prior to joining this great fraternity.

The evening say the presentation handled by the newly appointed FITC (Freemasonry In The Community) co-ordinator W.Bro. Mike Grace, and ably assisted by area vice-chairman W.Bro. Carl Sams, and the area’s Chairman W.Bro. Mark Werner.  Extolling the great works of Teddies For Loving Care (TLC) was our very own APGM, W.Bro. Chris Lockwood.

With over thirty masons and guests present for the evening, the presentation was both highly informative and entertaining, with the added bonus of all guests retiring to the bar for curry and cheesecake and a well-earned drink!

17th February 2026

Hythe Lodge No.8546 raises Bro. Brian Marcer to that sublime degree!

Another great evening as Hythe Lodge No.8546 saw stand-in WM W.Bro. David Coombes undertake the Ceremony of Raising in his usual streamlined and proficient matter to raise Bro. Brian Marcer to that sublime degree of a Master Mason.

Bro. Brian showed no signs of nerves as he answered his prerequisite questions with confidence.

Special mention as the tools were undertaken word perfectly by Bro. Garry Mabe, and the traditional History by guest star W.Bro. Ian Hayter.

We wish Brian every success in his continued journey through freemasonry.

Bro. Jonathan Stratton also received his Grand Lodge Certificate awarded by W.Bro. David Coombes.

7th February 2026

Freemasonry In The Community comes to the LMC

This Saturday saw the initial training session and brainstorming of brethren from across the area in preparation for our forthcoming FITC meet and greet for the public across the summer.

Ably led by W.Bro. Barry Hills, the meeting practised putting up the gazebo, as well as formulating ideas for the future ten sessions from April to September, and getting the car park and surrounding area ready.

The concept must work as when the gazebo was being practised, an unattached Brother walking past came into the car park and made enquiries!!

This project needs Brethren to step forward and offer their time to help with the event, even for a few hours, so if you can help in spreading the word of Freemasonry and hopefully attracting new members, as well as getting noticed in the local community please email W.Bro. Barry on barry.hills247@gmail.com!!

🌲✨ New Forest Lodge No. 319 proudly demonstrated its skill, harmony, and ritual excellence in a superb Ceremony of Passing, as Bro. Ozgur Aldemir was passed to the Degree of a Fellowcraft. The ceremony was conducted under the steady guidance of the Lodge’s current Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Keith Murdoch, at the Lymington Masonic Centre 🏛️🔨

The evening was further distinguished by an Official Visit led by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro. Jonathan Bell, accompanied by his Provincial Escort 👑. The Provincial team were received after the Lodge was opened in due and ancient form, adding great distinction to the proceedings.

A fascinating extract from the minutes of a Lodge meeting held 100 years ago was expertly recited by W.Bro. Andy Wort, reminding the Brethren of the rich history and enduring traditions of New Forest Lodge No. 319 📜✨.

The main event followed, with Bro. Ozgur clearly demonstrating his diligent preparation and commitment to the Craft by answering his questions flawlessly. The ceremony itself was delivered with precision and enthusiasm, showcasing the collective skill of all involved 👏🔨.

Special mention must go to W.Bro. Paul Kent for the South East Corner, Bro. Joe Traykov for the Working Tools, and W.Bro. Steve Morgan for the Tracing Board — all expertly delivered and greatly appreciated.

A particularly memorable moment followed with W.Bro. Norman Taylor being presented with his 40 Year Certificate of Service by the APGM 🏅🎉. The warm applause from the assembled Brethren spoke volumes of W.Bro. Norman’s dedication and popularity within the Lodge.

The Lodge also successfully balloted two joining members, W.Bro. Mark Gannaway and Bro. Adam Stote, who were warmly welcomed into the Lodge 🤝🔵.

After the Provincial team retired, reports were received and the Lodge was closed in due form. The Brethren then retired to the festive board for an excellent meal, hearty toasts, and wonderful companionship 🍽️🥂, with an impressive £616 raised for good causes ❤️👏.

A truly memorable evening of Freemasonry, fellowship, and charity.

All images can be seen at the usual Flikr site at https://www.flickr.com/photos/198456534@N08/

Lymington Lodge No. 7984 proudly celebrated Burns Night in true Masonic style with the Raising of Bro. Andy Gleeson 🔺🥃🏴

A ceremony that very nearly didn’t happen… the winds howled, the rain lashed down and rising sea levels threatened to turn Lymington into an island 🌬️🌧️🌊 however, nothing was going to deter determined Brethren, who battled through the elements from far and wide to support Freemasonry and this special Burns Night occasion 🤝

Bro. John Chugg, serving as Inner Guard, certainly earned his wages for the evening, clocking up his steps as he admitted Brethren arriving throughout the ceremony 🚶‍♂️👏 all were eventually rewarded with a superb Raising conducted under the guidance of our Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Mark Holland 🔨✨

With a few unavoidable absences, stand-ins were expertly arranged, with special mention to W.Bro. John Blount acting as Senior Deacon. Bro. Andy was word perfect in his answers and carried himself with great confidence and dignity throughout the ceremony — a credit to himself and to the Craft 🔺👏

Special praise must also go to Bro. Mark Williams for a flawless delivery of the 3rd Degree Tools 📐🗝️

The evening concluded in true Burns Night tradition with a fantastic Festive Board 🍽️🥃 the haggis was piped in by Bro. Paul Stevens 🎶 and the Address to the Haggis was expertly delivered by W.Bro. Derek Mcadie, enjoyed by nearly sixty Brethren who had travelled from across the South West and beyond 🥁🏴

A wonderful evening of Freemasonry, fellowship and Burns Night spirit, raising a total of £588 for good causes 💷👏
£81 Alms | £380 Raffle | £42 Bottle Draw | £85 MCF

A night to remember at Lymington Lodge No. 7984 🔺🥃🏴

All images can be seen at the usual Flikr site at https://www.flickr.com/photos/198456534@N08/

Lentune Lodge No. 8743 marked a special moment as they held their final meeting for 2025 and official Guest Night at the Lymington Masonic Centre, welcoming Bro. Jacob Moroney into Freemasonry 🤝🗝️

The evening was strongly supported by the South West Tourists and further honoured by the presence of our APGM, W.Bro. Chris Lockwood 👏🔨

The Ceremony was opened by the current WM, W.Bro. Garry Vidler, before being entrusted to Bro. Jacob’s proposer and close friend, the IPM W.Bro. Jason Farnell, who delivered the work with dignity, sincerity and true Masonic gravitas 📜✨

Bro. Jacob proved himself a confident and composed candidate, giving firm and thoughtful responses throughout, with special mention to:
🔹 North East Corner – W.Bro. Jason Farnell
🔹 Working Tools – Bro. James Thompson
🔹 Charge after Initiation – W.Bro. Stuart Thompson

With so many Brethren and guests in attendance, the Festive Board was full and lively, and the evening raised over £360 for good causes — a true reflection of the charitable heart and enduring values of Freemasonry 💙🍽️🍷

All images can be seen at the usual Flikr site at https://www.flickr.com/photos/198456534@N08/

Lymington Lodge No.7984 saw their latest member be initiated in the form of Bro. Carl Peverill with the ceremony professionally conducted in his first outing since installation by W.Bro. Mark Holland.

With over fifty Brethren filling the Temple with several guests known personally to Carl, as well as guests from brother Lodges at the LMC, (Hythe Massive), saw the Initiate conduct himself with great confidence and dignity.

The festive board was a raucous affair with all the trimmings of a Christmas meeting including carols and a poinsettia to take home at the end.

Special mention also to W.Bro. David Coombes for the Initiates Song!

The evening also saw £252 raised in the raffle, £85.50 in the bottle draw and £107 for Alms. A monetary contribution was also presented for all the staff who make the running of the festive boards and the hall so seamless.

The Lodge is now looking to their next ceremony on the 27th January 2026 which will be a third degree ceremony!

All images can be seen at the usual Flikr site at https://www.flickr.com/photos/198456534@N08/

21st November 2025

Hythe Lodge No.8546 Charity contribution to the Waterside Food Bank based in Blackfield

✨ Another shining example of Masonic “Service” ✨

Hythe Lodge No.8546 has proudly returned to its roots this festive season by supporting the wonderful Waterside Food Bank in Blackfield 🍞🎁🤝.

This December, Brethren from the Lodge gathered and donated a generous collection of food items, which were then delivered to the Food Bank by Past Master, Worshipful Brother Kevin Wheeler 🚗📦 — assisted by the amazing volunteers who work tirelessly for the local community 🙌❤️. Freemasons from across the New Forest meet at the Lymington Masonic Centre 🏛️.
Freemasonry is built on integrity, friendship, respect, and service — values that inspire us to support those around us and make a positive difference 🌟💙.

31st October 2025

Lymington Lodge No.7984 Charity contribution to the New Forest Basics Food Bank

This week saw the newly installed Worshipful Master of Lymington Lodge No.7984 attend the New Forest Basics Bank based in Lymington with the contributions from the Brethren of the Lodge collected at their recent Installation Ceremony.

W.Bro. Mark Holland (right), accompanied with the IPM, W.Bro. Alun McIndoe (left) are seen here with the Deputy Chairman of the charity David Da Cunha.

David was introduced to NFBB in 2015 by Anthony Kirke, then NFBB Treasurer, who invited him to become a volunteer driver. By 2016 the Trustees needed to relocate the then operation behind Lymington URC, so David was invited to take charge of this project. He became a Trustee in 2017 with specific responsibility to find, acquire and build out a site suitable for a new building to meet the long term needs of the charity.

At a packed Lodge room over 65 Brethren witnessed the installation of Master Elect W.Bro. Mark Holland into the Chair of King Solomon overseen by the Installing Master, W.Bro. Alun McIndoe.

A fantastic ceremony with W.Bro. Mark taking on his new role within the Lodge with clarity and confidence who immediately set about installing his new Officers for the forthcoming year, with some changes to roles.

During the Ceremony special mention to those who all gave excellent ritual pieces, namely;

1st Degree Working Tools – Bro. Dean Vonlandau

2^nd Degree Working Tools – Bro. Josh Longworth

3^rd Degree Working Tools – Bro. Mark Williams

Address to the Brethren – W.Bro. Steve Bralee

Address to the Wardens – W.Bro. Gino Cirelli

Address to the Master – W.Bro. Jason Lovell

Afterwards the hall downstairs was filled with all the Brethren to toast and celebrate a new season for Lymington Lodge and to wish the new Worshipful Master good luck in his future endeavours..

During his year as Worshipful Master, Jason Farnell selected two causes close to his heart: Shine Cancer Support, a Poole-based charity helping people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s living with cancer, and Simon Says, a Romsey charity providing vital bereavement support for children across Hampshire.

Through generous donations, raffles, and collections at Lodge meetings, members raised £450 for Shine Cancer Support and £387 for Simon Says.

Jason was delighted to personally present cheques to both charities, extending Lentune Lodge’s heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to these meaningful causes.

Hosted by the South Central FITC team at the Totton Masonic Centre, a half day of information sharing, good ideas, and practical tasks were given to the Brethren from the LMC for future Freemasonry In The Community (FITC) activities.

A great deal of knowledge and experiences was used from all attending to get some really useful ideas and tips for the planned events!

Supporting the 2025 Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal

On the first day of this year’s Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, Freemasons (and family) from both the South West and South Central Areas proudly stepped up to support this incredible cause — helping to sell poppies across several key locations in Southampton.

Volunteers were out in force at The Marlands and Westquay shopping centres, with another dedicated team visiting the Ordnance Survey HQ near Adanac Park.

A big thank you to W.Bro. Steve Blake of St Christopher Lodge No.7919 for organising the event as part of a countywide Masonic effort to help the Appeal get off to a strong start.

Well done to everyone who gave their time to support this year’s Poppy Appeal — a true example of community, remembrance, and service.

The Hythe Way!! – great to see Hythe Lodge No.8546 in full swing this Tuesday just past as they passed two of their EA’s to the position of Fellowcraft’s by carrying out a double 2nd!

With W.Bro. Ian Hill overseeing proceedings as the Worshipful Master, Bro’s Tony Haywood and Russell Standing were introduced to the delights of the liberal arts and sciences!

With special mention to;

W.Bro. Mike Thompson – South East Corner

Bro. Garry Mabe – 2nd Degree Tools

W.Bro. Tony Bargrowv – Expanation of the 2nd Degree Tracing Board

We wish Bro’s Tony (left) and Russell (right)every success in their new Degree!

All images of the evening can be seen at the SWA image hosting site at https://www.flickr.com/photos/198456534@N08/albums/

Looking to other Masonic Centres across the South West Area, history was made at the New Milton Masonic Centre with the rare and memorable occasion of a Re-Naming Ceremony, as Barton Court Lodge No.5468 proudly became New Milton Lodge, with a beautiful new banner presented to mark the event.

The evening was truly special, with every seat filled and the East graced by a number of distinguished guests, including the Provincial Grand Master R.W. Jonathan C. Whitaker, who conducted the ceremony. He was joined by the South West Area APGM, W.Bro. Chris Lockwood, the Area Chairman W.Bro. Mark Werner, the AVC W.Bro. Carl Sams, and the Lodge VO W.Bro. Neil West, alongside other honoured Brethren of Grand Lodge rank and members of the Provincial escort.

The Lodge was opened by the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. James Light, assisted by his officers, before the PGM was formally received under the direction of the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, W.Bro. Bill Starkey.

Following the approval of minutes and salutations, the PGM took the gavel and began the Re-Naming Ceremony. Members of the Lodge formed a grand procession, exiting and re-entering with the newly created banner.

The Provincial Chaplain then delivered a heartfelt prayer and blessing as the banner was unfurled and carried around the Lodge for all to admire.

Once placed beside the Worshipful Master’s pedestal, the Lodge resumed its usual form, and the Brethren were treated to a fascinating account of Freemasonry in New Milton—charting its early days, the growth to three Lodges, and how this new chapter connects the Lodge more deeply with its community.

After the formalities, the PGM and Provincial team retired, and the evening continued with a joyful Festive Board at New Milton Bowls Club. The atmosphere was lively and filled with good humour, toasts, and brotherly fellowship. A generous raffle raised over £360 for Teddies for Loving Care and £200 for the Benevolent Fund, reflecting the Lodge’s commitment to charity and community.

It was a night that will be long remembered—one that most Brethren will never experience again in their Masonic journeys. New Milton Lodge now moves forward proudly, carrying its new name and banner as symbols of renewal, unity, and its growing bond with the local community.

All images of the evening can be seen at the SWA image hosting site at https://www.flickr.com/photos/198456534@N08/albums/

Last night, Lentune Lodge No. 8743 witnessed a memorable and expertly conducted Installation Ceremony, as W.Bro. Garry Vidler was installed into the Chair of King Solomon by W.Bro. Jason Farnell and his dedicated team of Lodge Officers.

Despite a few last-minute adjustments due to the familiar winter “lurgy”, the Ceremony, led by Director of Ceremonies W.Bro. Alan Turner, adapted brilliantly — ensuring the ceremony ran smoothly and with great professionalism.

The evening was honoured by the presence of APGM W.Bro. Chris Lockwood and AVC W.Bro. Jason Lovell, who both graced the Lodge with their attendance and support from the East.

Special mentions for their fine ritual work:

• 1st Degree Tools – W.Bro. Paul White
• 2nd Degree Tools – W.Bro. Mark Galloway
• 3rd Degree Tools – W.Bro. Alan Turner
• Address to the Master – W.Bro. Jason Farnell
• Address to the Wardens – W.Bro. Keith Cromar
• Address to the Brethren – W.Bro. Alan Turner

Following his Installation, W.Bro. Garry Vidler confidently appointed and installed his team of officers, showing his thorough preparation and commitment to the year ahead.

The evening concluded in true Lentune fashion with a hearty Festive Board, where the Brethren enjoyed a delicious roast beef dinner followed by pudding and custard — the perfect meal for a crisp autumn night, as well as raising over £160 from the raffle and Alms.

This Installation marks a special milestone, as W.Bro. Garry becomes the first light blue to take the helm of Lentune Lodge in ten years. We wish him every success in the year ahead, especially with several new initiates already lined up to join the Fraternity.

A Night of Brotherhood & Tradition at Lymington Lodge No. 7984 🟦⚒️

An excellent evening of Freemasonry was enjoyed at the Lymington Masonic Centre as Lymington Lodge No. 7984 held its 418th Regular Meeting—this time with a special twist: Past Masters’ Night.

The evening featured a 2nd Degree Ceremony, where Bro. Andrew James Gleeson was skilfully passed to the rank of Fellowcraft Freemason—a key milestone in any Mason’s journey.

In true Past Masters’ Night tradition, our current progressive officers (light blues) took a well-earned break as the Lodge’s Past Masters stepped into all the key roles, showcasing their experience and polishing off their ritual!

The ceremony was delivered with precision, dignity, and a touch of nostalgia. 👏

🌟 Key Roles on the Night:

• WM – W.Bro. Steve Bralee
• SW – W.Bro. Jason Lovell
• JW – W.Bro. Jon Masters
• SD – W.Bro. John Blount
• JD – W.Bro. Glynne Miles
• IG – W.Bro. Anthony Bargrove

📌 Special Mentions:

• SE Corner: W.Bro. Jon Masters
• 2nd Degree Tools: W.Bro. Glynne Miles
• Tracing Board (extended): W.Bro. Tony Welland & W.Bro. Jon Masters

We were also delighted to witness Bro. Paul Reeve receive his Grand Lodge Certificate, presented by our Visiting Officer W.Bro. Paul Berry—a proud moment in any Freemason’s journey.

🕯️ After the meeting, Brethren retired to the Festive Board for food, fellowship, and fundraising, with:

• £186 raised via raffle
• £115 donated through MCF envelopes

A heartfelt thank you to all Past Masters, visitors, and Brethren who made this a memorable evening filled with ritual excellence, Masonic spirit, and camaraderie. 👨‍👨‍👦‍👦

✨ A Grand Start to the 2025-2026 Season at Lymington Masonic Centre! ✨

The new season kicked off in style this week at New Forest Lodge No. 319, as our Master Elect, W.Bro. Keith Murdoch, was officially installed into the esteemed King Solomon’s Chair! 👑

The ceremony was a true testament to the Lodge’s strength and popularity, with a packed room of Brethren and guests in attendance. The event was also privileged to be visited by the South West Area APGM, W.Bro Chris Lockwood, and the Area Chairman W.Bro. Mark Werner. Outgoing W.Bro. Ryan Wood skillfully led the Installation, ensuring everything went off without a hitch. 🙌

As the new Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Keith took on the important task of installing his officers for the upcoming year, with special mentions for those who delivered exceptional ritual during the ceremony:

🔹 1st Degree Tools: Bro. Mike Witcher
🔹 2nd Degree Tools: Bro. Joe Traykov
🔹 3rd Degree Tools: Bro. Simon Graham
🔹 Address to the Brethren: W.Bro. Neil White
🔹 Address to the Wardens: W.Bro. Dave Street
🔹 Address to the Master: W.Bro. Ross Packard

The evening also paid homage to the services of W.Bro. Barry Hills who after eleven years of outstanding service as the Visiting Officer for the Lodge, was handing over the reigns to W.Bro. Toby Winter.

After the ceremony, everyone gathered for the Festive Board, enjoying delicious food and excellent service from the Centre’s staff. W.Bro. Keith did an outstanding job leading the toasts, capping off a wonderful evening of fellowship. 🍽️🍷

W.Bro. Keith reflected on the night:
“The ceremony was beyond my expectations. Everyone was so helpful, supportive, and thoughtful. I thoroughly enjoyed the evening!”

The entire New Forest Lodge and wider masonic community wishes W.Bro. Keith all the very best for the year ahead. Here’s to a year of success, brotherhood, and continued growth for our Lodge! 🙏✨

🌟 A truly memorable evening for Lymington Lodge No. 7984 as they celebrated their final meeting of the season with great pride and brotherly fellowship!

At the 417th Regular Meeting, they had the honour of witnessing W.Bro. Alun McIndoe deliver a superb Third Degree ceremony, raising Bro. Paul John Reeve to the sublime degree of a Master Mason—a milestone on every Mason’s journey. Bro. Paul carried himself with poise and dedication throughout this deeply symbolic and meaningful ritual.

The Lodge room was filled with warmth and camaraderie as visiting Brethren and welcome guests witnessed the occasion. Proper salutations were given, and true Masonic spirit filled the air.

A successful ballot welcomed Bro. Dean Daniels as a joining member, and a new candidate was also approved for Initiation—signs of a bright future ahead for the Craft at Lymington.

Special thanks and recognition go to:

🔹 W.Bro. Jon Masters for a powerful Charge and Exhortation
🔹 Bro. Mark Williams for an excellent delivery of the Working Tools
🔹 W.Bro. David Parfect for his narration of the Ancient History

The evening concluded in true Masonic tradition with a joyful Festive Board, where bonds were strengthened and stories shared.

As Lymington Lodge now head into a well-deserved summer recess, they look forward with great anticipation to Past Masters Night on the 4th Tuesday in September.

A wonderful way to close the Masonic season!

Hythe Lodge No. 8546 proudly installed W.Bro. Ian Hill into the Chair of King Solomon at a well-attended and heartfelt Installation Ceremony on Tuesday, 15th April, at the Lymington Masonic Centre.

It was a memorable evening filled with brotherly support, as Lodge members and honoured guests took part in presenting the Working Tools and delivering the addresses to the Master, Wardens, and Brethren.

We look forward with great anticipation to the year ahead under the steady guidance of W.Bro. Ian as he leads Hythe Lodge into 2026!

Brotherly love, relief, and truth continue to shine bright in Hythe Lodge!

Hythe Lodge also kindly made a fantastic donation to the NFBB from their final meeting – W.Bro. Kev Wheeler IPM with Hilary Tudor, trustee.

A fantastic evening out with members of Lymington Lodge No. 7984 and friends heading east of the Province, courtesy of the current WM, W.Bro. Alun McIndoe arranging and driving the minibus to Purbrook Masonic Centre to see a Ceremony of Initiation by St Thomas Lodge No 6574.

Great to see a masonic centre steeped in history, and a great welcome by the Brethren, and friendly Festive Board!

A fantastic night of education at Lymington Lodge No. 7984 as the team from the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge No. 9263, headed up by W.Bro. Andrew Weldycz gave an informative lecture of the 1st Degree Tracing Board incorporating sections 4, 5, 6 and 7!

A good turn out from visitors of other Lodges who came to expand their Masonic knowledge, the Lecture was given with the precision and professionalism expected from PGSL.

A further highlight was W.Bro. Ian Hillyer receiving his 40 year certificate in Masonry from the area vice chairman W.Bro. Jason Lovell after great efforts made by the postal service having tracked it down over the last couple of years!

The evening started with an early Christmas Festive note with the opening ode (you had to be there!) and finished with a great festive board for all raising £170 from the raffle.

At the LMC this Tuesday the 18th March, saw Hythe Lodge No.8546 celebrate a double initiation of Brothers Russell James, and Jason Whale as they were led from darkness into light with a well executed Ceremony of Initiation headed up by W.Bro. Kevin Wheeler and his team!

The evening saw the NE Corner by W.Bro. John Waring of Powney Lodge No. 3099, the Charge after Initiation by W.Bro. Tony Mursell, and an explanation of the Mode of Preparation by the Lodges’ Chaplain, W.Bro Mike Thompson.

Special mention also going to Bro. Tony Hayward, who only after been initiated two months prior, taking on the Working Tools and delivering them word perfect!

After the main ceremony there was a celebration of the Immediate Past Master and well known Mason in the form of W.Bro. David Coombes PGJD receiving his 40 Certificate of Masonry from the South West Area Chairman W.Bro Mark Werner after a in-depth and history of his masonic career and life highlights!

The Lymington Masonic Centre hosted a fantastic evening of giving when over twenty local charities came together for it’s annual cheque presentation evening for 2025!

The evening commenced with the South West Area Chairman of the Province of Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Worshipful Brother Mark Werner giving a quick introduction of what Freemasonry is all about, it’s structure, and history.

An opening address was also given by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Worshipful brother Chris Lockwood to all attendees.

The charities were then introduced by the individual Lodges from across the area who’s representatives gave an explanation of what their charities were all about.

A total for all the Lodges of across the South West Area was £101.600.19

The evening was then rounded off with an excellent buffet provided the staff at the LMC

✨ Lodge of Lodges – A Night of Masonic Unity! ✨

The Lymington Masonic Centre was alive with Brotherhood as New Forest Lodge No. 319 proudly hosted the annual Lodge of Lodges evening! 🏛️🤝

This unique event brings together Brethren from all Lodges and side orders at the LMC, with Officers from different Lodges uniting to conduct a special ceremony.

🔹 The Occasion? A Third Degree Raising for Bro. David Curtis, who was Passed on 4th December 2024.
🔹 The Host? W.Bro Ryan Wood, Worshipful Master of New Forest No. 319, leading a packed room of over 60 Brethren from near and far.
🔹 A Special Presence? The APGM W.Bro. Chris Lockwood and distinguished members of Grand Lodge with the South West Area Tourists (SWAT), led by W.Bro. Geoff Cane-Richardson.

👏 A Flawless Ceremony 👏
Bro. David set the tone with perfectly answered questions, and the Brethren conducted the ceremony with sincerity and precision—a true testament to Masonic tradition!

💬 Bro. David shared:
“What an exceptional evening, made even more special by so many Lodges and guests coming together. My part felt small compared to my fellow Brethren, to whom I am deeply grateful for making it so memorable.”

The line-up for the evening was;

WM – W.Bro. Ryan Wood (New Forest No.319)

SW – W.Bro. Simon Bagshot (Powney No.3099)

JW – W.Bro. Alun McIndoe (Lymington No.7984)

SD – W.Bro Kevin Wheeler (Hythe No.8546)

JD – W.Bro Jason Farnell (Lentune No.8743)

IG – W.Bro. Tony Broomfield (New Forest Mark Master Masons No.611)

Charge and Exhortation – W.Bro. John Masters (Lymington No.7984)

Ancient History – W.Bro. Tony Bargrove (Red Cross Forest Rose No.265)

3^rd Degree Tools – W.Bro. Philip Kitch (Rose Croix St. Thomas the Apostle No. 1094)

🎉 A Night to Remember! 🎉
The evening concluded with a fantastic Festive Board, where the generosity of the Brethren raised £594 for charity! 🫶💙

A Night of Brotherhood and Tradition at Lymington Lodge No. 7984

The final Craft meeting the LMC for February marked a momentous occasion as Bro. Andy Gleeson took his first step on the path of Freemasonry, experiencing the profound and time-honoured Ceremony of Initiation.

Guided by W.Bro. Alun McIndoe, the ceremony was conducted with both solemnity and warmth, ensuring Bro. Andy’s first experience of Masonic ritual was truly memorable. Key roles were performed by Bro. Ali Longworth (North East Corner), Bro. John Chugg (Working Tools), and Bro. Mark Holland (Charge after Initiation), each adding their own dedication to the evening’s work.

A further highlight of the evening was the presentation of a 60-Year Long Service Certificate to W.Bro. Sid Chant—a true testament to a lifetime of unwavering Masonic service. This distinguished honour was presented by V.W. David Perkis, Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire & IOW, and also in the presence of our very own APGM, W.Bro. Chris Lockwood, making for an occasion filled with both respect and celebration.

With visiting Brethren from across the Province in attendance, the festive board was alive with camaraderie, hearty laughter, and fine dining. The raffle and whisky draw raised over £350 for charity, further reinforcing the values of charity and fellowship at the heart of our Order.

As Bro. Andy reflected on his initiation, he shared:
“What an amazing evening! I was not sure what to expect, but what an experience. I had a great night and am looking forward to future meetings with the Lodge.”

We extend our warmest congratulations to Bro. Andy Gleeson as he begins his Masonic journey and to W.Bro. Sid Chant for his remarkable service. May the light of Freemasonry continue to shine brightly in all our hearts.

🔷 A Night of Masonic Progress and Dedication at Lymington Masonic Centre 🔷

Tuesday evening was a truly memorable occasion for Hythe Lodge No. 8546, as brethren gathered to witness both the advancement of newer members and the celebration of decades of dedication to the Craft.

Under the guidance of Worshipful Master, W.Bro. Kevin Wheeler, Bros. Jonathan Stratton and Brian Mercer were passed to the Second Degree in a superbly conducted double ceremony. Their responses were delivered with confidence, and they navigated their journey under the steady direction of Senior Deacon, Bro. Scott Hill, and Junior Deacon, Bro. Tony Stedman.

The 2nd Degree Working Tools and South East Corner explanation were delivered with precision by W.Bro. David Coombes, who also stepped in as DC for the evening. Following this, the brethren were treated to an excellent explanation of the 2nd Degree Tracing Board by W.Bro. Andrew Weldycz—a true example of Masonic knowledge in action.

The evening then took on a special significance as W.Bro. Mike Thompson, PPDepGSuptWks, was honoured with his 40-Year Long Service Certificate, presented by SWA Vice Chairman, W.Bro. Jason Lovell. The Lodge was then privileged to witness a rare and distinguished moment—W.Bro. John Coombes, PPJGW, receiving his 60-Year Long Service Certificate, presented by APGM, W.Bro. Chris Lockwood.

Adding to the celebrations, Bro. Garry Mabey was presented with his Grand Lodge Certificate by W.Bro. Barry Hills, marking an important milestone in his Masonic journey.

✨ A truly special evening, bringing together the foundations of Freemasonry—progress, knowledge, and dedication. From those advancing in their Masonic path to those who have devoted decades to the Craft, the spirit of Brotherhood and Tradition was ever-present!

🔷 “To improve ourselves in Freemasonry is to walk in the footsteps of those who came before us.” 🔷