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<title>Mark RSS Feed</title><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/index.html</link><description>Hot News&#x21;</description><dc:language>en</dc:language><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:rights>Copyright 2009 Ray Guthrie</dc:rights><dc:date>2013-03-29T18:26:29+00:00</dc:date><admin:generatorAgent rdf:resource="http://www.realmacsoftware.com/" />
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<lastBuildDate>Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:44:02 +0100</lastBuildDate><item><title>Hearing Dogs update</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2013-03-29T18:26:29+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/19f86d12108bbf487bf7585be8170517-162.html#unique-entry-id-162</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/19f86d12108bbf487bf7585be8170517-162.html#unique-entry-id-162</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Many brethren of the Mark Degree contributed to the "Talking Dogs appeal" as V.W.Bro John Lendon called it, we knew it as the PGMs Appeal for Hearing Dogs for the deaf. 

...I became more confident going out shopping with him beside me, as anyone who stopped to talk to me instantly knew I was deaf because Farley, and took extra care in speaking to me, as well as making a fuss of Farley, which is great.

...I am much more relaxed now as I know any sound I miss Farley will tell me and take me to the sound, and that is so wonderful. 

...Recently my husband has had to go into hospital, so for the first time in years I have been on my own at home. ...  I feel so safe having him with me, and my husband is not worried either as he knows Farley is there for me.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark Grand Lodge Appointments</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2013-03-29T16:01:25+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5d48b2bd7fe88af0bf0ec21a4d121365-161.html#unique-entry-id-161</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5d48b2bd7fe88af0bf0ec21a4d121365-161.html#unique-entry-id-161</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The following Brethren will be appointed or promoted at the investiture meeting of The Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons to be held at Freemasons Hall, Great Queen Street, London on Tuesday 11th June 2013, many congratulations to them all.


...W.Bro Tony Wilcox - Portal Lodge No 155 to Past Grand Standard Bearer.


...W.Bro Keith Fisher - William Long Lodge No 191 to Past Grand Standard Bearer.


W.Bro Ian Walker - Cerdic Lodge No 571 to Past Grand Standard Bearer.


The Following brethren will be promoted to the rank of Past Grand Junior Deacon.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Supreme Grand Chapter appointments 2013</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2013-03-06T15:04:46+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/c9d21415646327b1c63699e38ed2720b-160.html#unique-entry-id-160</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/c9d21415646327b1c63699e38ed2720b-160.html#unique-entry-id-160</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the Annual Investiture of Supreme Grand Chapter to be held at Freemasons Hall on Thursday 25th April 2013 the following Companions of Somerset are being honoured, we offer them our best wishes and congratulations. 

...John Michael Griffin,	Past 3rd Prov.   Grand Principal to Past Grand Standard Bearer

...Neil Bradley Hawes, 	Prov.   Grand Treasurer to Past Grand Standard Bearer]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>UGLE Appointments 2013</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2013-03-02T19:14:19+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/bf1b359a9d19ee39b70fb9faf44c725c-159.html#unique-entry-id-159</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/bf1b359a9d19ee39b70fb9faf44c725c-159.html#unique-entry-id-159</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Two distinguished brethren of the Mark Degree in Somerset will be promoted to Grand Rank at the annual investiture of United Grand Lodge of England on Wednesday 24th April 2013, both to the rank of PAGDC.   They are Worshipful Brother John Muskett (Vale of Brislington Lodge No 1296, left) the present commander of the Irwin Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners at Keynsham and W.Bro John Peters (Backwell Lodge No 7964, right), founding Master of the Isle of Wedmore Lodge of MMM No 1912. 

...W.Bro Stephen Hawkins, Provincial Grand Chaplain, Province of Bristol, Sir Isaac Newton Lodge No 9801,  to Assistant Grand Chaplain. 

...Note W.Bro David Hughes is the son of the late V.W.Bro TA (Tom) Hughes, who was known to many older brethren in the  Province as the Deputy PGM (1991-97) and the Grand Superintendent.   Tom was also a Very W.Bro in the Mark degree having been an active Grand Master Overseer.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Combined Book of Constitutions and yearbook</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2013-01-15T23:32:43+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0c64bde1fba38cb66e0cc6758ea40694-158.html#unique-entry-id-158</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0c64bde1fba38cb66e0cc6758ea40694-158.html#unique-entry-id-158</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Always capable of surprising us the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons have come up with the great idea of combining the year book, containing all information about every Province, Lodge and Grand Officer together with the book of constitutions. ...  Well the year book is updated every year the BofC not quite so frequently.   But the real benefit to the average Mark Master Mason is that the new book contains a wealth of current information about the organisation and its rules.   Plus the combined book is available for the same price as one of the individual books.   You can get a copy for &pound;12 from Lewis Masonic Happy Reading!
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Year&#x27;s Honours Congratulations</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-12-30T15:57:01+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0560ea810a99f1da04555959a8f820c2-157.html#unique-entry-id-157</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0560ea810a99f1da04555959a8f820c2-157.html#unique-entry-id-157</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Many brethren and their wives in North East Somerset will know Eileen, not only for her work with the Somerset Masonic Widows Association but also for her very interesting and humorous talks about her experiences working at Bristol Airport.   Her drive and determination helped to establish the Widows association and it has continued to flourish with her in the Chair.   Eileen is also the first to volunteer to help with the Somerset stand at the annual Cadogan Court Fair at the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institute Home in Exeter. 

...A quote from Stuart Hadler, Provincial Grand Master, "Eileen is a fine example of selfless dedication to the needs of others whether in her local community or more especially the Masonic Widows Association in Somerset.  ...  She has made a positive difference in the lives of countless widows and their families and to many other needy people through her energetic campaigning and fund-raising for a range of charities and support projects."
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dress Code for MMH</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-12-04T10:12:53+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7a9ab7a0114b232fa9aebeed086ceb29-156.html#unique-entry-id-156</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7a9ab7a0114b232fa9aebeed086ceb29-156.html#unique-entry-id-156</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I hereunder transcribe the Deputy Grand Secretary&rsquo;s instructions regarding the minimum dress code at Mark Masons&rsquo; Hall. 

...&ldquo;We have received a number of complaints on the standard of dress of individuals using the bar on the second floor of Mark Masons&rsquo; Hall.


We consider Mark Masons&rsquo; Hall to be a gentleman&rsquo;s club for Freemasons and members are expected to dress accordingly.


We would ask you to draw the attention of your members to the minimum dress code applicable to all users of Mark Masons Hall facilities, namely:


...Anyone taking a bag or coat into the bar will be denied service until the coats and/or bags are removed.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Flog It&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-11-21T15:21:04+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ac107aed9ea74eda79382ebe2abd06a3-155.html#unique-entry-id-155</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ac107aed9ea74eda79382ebe2abd06a3-155.html#unique-entry-id-155</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The popular BBC2 programme Flog It!   was filmed this summer at various locations in Bath, including the Bath Masonic Hall in Old Orchard Street.


The programme will be broadcast on 26th November and is available on BBC iplayer until 3rd December.


Presenter Paul Martin tries his hand as Master!


The production team set up for the shoot in the undercroft of the Masonic Hall
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Freewheelers Appeal</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-11-07T16:03:25+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0e5eb2b17eb2adc0c9721f4b79b9f626-154.html#unique-entry-id-154</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0e5eb2b17eb2adc0c9721f4b79b9f626-154.html#unique-entry-id-154</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the meeting of Lodge Charity Stewards and Almoners the Provincial Grand Master, David Nelson, welcomed Alan Roberts, Richard and Steve of the Freewheelers EVS charity who gave a detailed and moving presentation of their work in Somerset and S. 

...Their services are utilised by hospitals in the area to carry blood, samples, documents, patient records etc. between 7pm and 7am every day and all weekends and bank holidays. 

...Each bike covers over 30,000 miles per year (3 bikes are in operation at any one time in the west, north and east of the county), and is in service for two years before being passed on to similar charities elsewhere. 

...&bull;	For the NHS to run a similar rapid response motorcycle service would cost &pound;250,000 - &pound;270,000 in this area alone, money which would not be forthcoming. 

...The PGM then proposed that the Lodges in the Province should aim to raise &pound;15,000 over the ensuing year in order to provide the Freewheelers with a replacement motorcycle. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>2012 RAM Grand Rank</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-10-21T01:51:11+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/26bb4e0b9ae7cc290faf816f6b973529-153.html#unique-entry-id-153</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/26bb4e0b9ae7cc290faf816f6b973529-153.html#unique-entry-id-153</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Most Worshipful Grand Master, His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent, will be pleased to invest the following Brethren of this Province with Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank at the Annual Assembly of the Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Royal Ark Mariners on Tuesday 11th December 2012 at Grand Lodge.

...Anthony Guy Snook,  Somerset Commanders Lodge No 1652.

...Charles Henry Cornish,  Nailsea Lodge RAM No.1548.

...Bro.   Peter Duncan Atkins,  Exmoor Lodge RAM No. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Royal Ark Mariner Provincial Appointments</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-10-21T01:48:22+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/dd73531d3fc506688816f60ee0c1c738-152.html#unique-entry-id-152</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/dd73531d3fc506688816f60ee0c1c738-152.html#unique-entry-id-152</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro.   David Brian Nelson, will invest the following Brethren with Provincial Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank at the Provincial Grand  Assembly of Royal Ark Mariners at Nailsea Hall Masonic Hall on Saturday 9th February 2013


...William Long Lodge RAM No.191

...Fidelity & Unanimity Lodge RAM No.348

...Somerset Commanders Lodge RAM No 1652]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Irwin Centenary</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-09-18T21:36:48+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f8344097d6be6ea159f2ad0500e33348-151.html#unique-entry-id-151</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f8344097d6be6ea159f2ad0500e33348-151.html#unique-entry-id-151</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Irwin Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No. 119 celebrated its Centenary in glorious style last evening, accompanied by over 70 brethren including the Provincial Grand Master and Provincial Officers of the year; the lodge being additionally honoured by the presence of 

...Irwin lodge of Royal Ark Mariners is the oldest RAM lodge in Somerset and one of the oldest in the Country, having been Warranted on 13th April 1873 some 139 years ago.   Its chequered early history caused it to suffer breaks in continuity and it was not until 1909 that meetings became stable and continuous, resulting in the approval by Grand Lodge to issue a Centenary Warrant in recognition of 100 years of uninterrupted existence to 2009.

Distinguished brethren were received into the lodge with much pomp and the Provincial Grand Master occupied the Chair to receive the Assistant Grand Master who then took over and directed the proceedings after having firstly addressed the brethren.

...Bob Newman , the reading and presentation of the Centenary Warrant by the Deputy Grand Secretary and the dedication of  a lodge banner (which had been gifted to the lodge by W.Bro. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Support for Cancer Appeal.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-07-20T15:58:11+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6f507cc85e47c7ca98a05f60f50df445-150.html#unique-entry-id-150</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6f507cc85e47c7ca98a05f60f50df445-150.html#unique-entry-id-150</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Children&rsquo;s Cancer Appeal is endeavouring to raise &pound;250,000 to transform the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Bristol Children&rsquo;s Hospital to create a new, integrated Children&rsquo;s Cancer Unit.   Together, the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit and the Oncology Ward provide the very highest level of care to children with cancer and leukaemia from all over the South West.   The new Children&rsquo;s Cancer Unit will provide integrated care to the hundreds of children suffering from cancer who are treated at the Hospital each year.


Funds raised by the appeal will build a new conservatory and playroom giving long-stay patients the opportunity to see out over all of Bristol with views of the surrounding countryside.   It will also provide enhanced family facilities including a parents room and kitchen, as well as en-suites in patient bedrooms for children who are suffering from cancer and leukaemia. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>George Norman Lodge 75 is years old.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-10-08T09:22:10+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e12a3ec07d77e63e187b50437883ea0b-149.html#unique-entry-id-149</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e12a3ec07d77e63e187b50437883ea0b-149.html#unique-entry-id-149</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master and his team joined the members of the George Norman Lodge to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the consecration of the lodge at Yatton.

...At a very convivial festive board, our Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Alan Patrick Parker, proposed an excellent toast to the founder members of the lodge.   One of the founders, HG Parker was Pat's father, who in the same year, 1937 was also Senior Warden of Carnarvon Lodge MMM No 119 at Keynsham. ...  This required a donation of &pound;80 (at an annual inflation rate of 3.7% this would be roughly equivalent to &pound;1400 to-day) which 2 brethren were prepared to loan the lodge on an interest free basis until the loan could be repaid. 

...To round off the celebrations for this very special occasion, Worshipful Master James Gilbody and our Provincial Grand Master joined forces to cut the 75th anniversary cake which was then enjoyed by all.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Hallam Lodge H4H Donation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-05-07T18:14:00+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e3f4247e105ae5caa51d1ac6f4f40785-148.html#unique-entry-id-148</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e3f4247e105ae5caa51d1ac6f4f40785-148.html#unique-entry-id-148</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Following a successful fund raising year which included a well attended Sunday Lunch and a donation match by Province the Worshipful Master , W.Bro Terry Foad was very much pleased to present a cheque to Help for Heroes for the princely sum of &pound;750.


...Mr Richard Lupton , the area co-ordinator for H4H came down to Clevedon Masonic Hall not only to receive the cheque but also to impart so valuable insight into how the money would be used and the plans&nbsp;of H4H for the future.


...The photograph shows the presentation party.


...From left to right


Andy Gray , Jerry Jones , Richard Lupton (H4H) , Bob Cole , Worshipful Master - Terry Foad , Neil Hurcum , Derek Wilton
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Herbert Fuller Lodge finally get their man&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-06-06T18:36:17+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ed0145bee942a766c80a173dbc1c24e3-147.html#unique-entry-id-147</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ed0145bee942a766c80a173dbc1c24e3-147.html#unique-entry-id-147</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Many brethren were present in Wincanton on 6th June 2012 when Neville Harrison finally became a Royal Ark Mariner.   Neville is well known in the Mark Degree in Somerset, he is the Secretary of William de Irwin Lodge in Yeovil and a Grand Officer in the degree.   The photo show him at the festive board following his elevation with the Commander of Herbert Fuller Lodge, Roly Bisgrove.   Thanks to Trevor Smith for the photo.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Commanders sail to Wiltshire</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-05-26T10:49:00+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e43252237ef7ab6e51945b6be2eb3711-146.html#unique-entry-id-146</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e43252237ef7ab6e51945b6be2eb3711-146.html#unique-entry-id-146</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[On the 23rd May W.Bros John Nicholson and Trevor Burton and I attended the Reginald W Short Installed Commanders Lodge in Devizes, Wiltshire.


...The P.G.M of Wiltshire, R.W.Bro Martin Brown, the Worshipful Commander officially welcomed us in the Lodge and stated he hoped this would be the start of closer links between the two installed Commanders Lodges of each Province.


...He then installed W.Bro E Price as Worshipful Commander assisted by the D.P.G.M, W.Bro John Bell.   The PGM of Dorset R.W.Bro Jeremy Shaw was also in attendance.


...We then had an excellent festive board at which new masonic friendships were formed.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Nailsea RAM Banner Dedication</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-03-14T19:20:56+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/94e1485f788fe61ea2a4c29bb1322a83-145.html#unique-entry-id-145</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/94e1485f788fe61ea2a4c29bb1322a83-145.html#unique-entry-id-145</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The PGM and a full team of Provincial Officers were in attendance to dedicate the new Lodge Banner.   The design of the banner is similar in many respects to that of the Nailsea Mark Lodge, emphasising Nailsea's history and connection with glass production and bearing of course the unique Nailsea RAM insignia, the ark with the giraffe!   John Morgan was responsible for the production of the new banner made from Thai silk.   In addition to the banner dedication the Commander and his officers elevated brother Denis Golding. 

...Dave Bush JW, Mark Golding Pr ADC and son of Denis Golding the candidate this evening, John Muskett  - Deputy Provincial Chaplain, Sandy Kemlo - Commander, Geoff Nash - DC, PGM David Nelson, Denis Golding - this evenings candidate, John Morgan, Derek Shailer, Cliff Hannabuss, Peter Elmont and Roy Wilton.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Craft and Chapter GL Appointments 2012</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-03-04T17:37:18+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2c44eeadd69f48422f6cd273d3eee63b-144.html#unique-entry-id-144</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2c44eeadd69f48422f6cd273d3eee63b-144.html#unique-entry-id-144</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Most Worshipful Grand Master has been pleased to appoint and promote the following Somerset Brethren.   (These take effect from Wednesday 25th April 2012) 


First Appointment all to the rank of Past Asst. 

...Grand Chapter Appointments (These take effect from Thursday 26th April 2012)


...C A Stuart Hadler Deputy Grand Sword Bearer.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark Grand Lodge Appointments 2012</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-03-30T12:54:40+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/552706a0ced7b315c573ba920a0d9cb6-143.html#unique-entry-id-143</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/552706a0ced7b315c573ba920a0d9cb6-143.html#unique-entry-id-143</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Most Worshipful Grand Master, His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO will be pleased to invest the following Brethren of this Province with Grand Rank Honours at he Annual Investiture Meeting of Grand Lodge on Tuesday 12th June 2012.  

...Sydney John Smith to Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies

...Mervyn Terence Haggett, to Past Assistant Grand Sword Bearer

...Philip Charles Coles , to Past Grand Standard Bearer

...Ian Geoffery Peter Strickland, to Past Grand Standard Bearer]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Support for young Carers</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-03-18T21:30:35+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/dbecbf5236a803bbca684e95b0ef2e68-142.html#unique-entry-id-142</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/dbecbf5236a803bbca684e95b0ef2e68-142.html#unique-entry-id-142</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It is difficult and daunting for youngsters who find themselves in the position of carer for a sick or disabled parent who is relying on them for help and support.   Just like any adult carer, these youngsters bravely and lovingly look after their adult "charges" and just like their adult counterparts, they too suffer the same exhaustion and weariness and need the kind of "break" which respite care provides.


...Sadly, Somerset CC is threatening the withdrawal of a &pound;70,000 grant for the "Friends" due to the economic climate so it was especially gratifying that Somerset Masons have been able to contribute some much needed funds.


Quantock Lodge MMM No.749 raised &pound;250 at a recent meeting, it was the first request submitted to Provincial Grand Master of the Mark Degree to be fund matched by the Somerset Mark Benevolent fund.


...The pictures show Dave Attwater Master of Quantock Lodge and Peter Holmes of Admiral Blake presenting cheques to "the Friends" Regional Coordinator Jo Sylvester and Treasurer Tony Hunt. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>A new Commander and 30 joining members&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-03-02T12:39:28+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9d2175e1c2909ed2372d98b6d8092a5e-141.html#unique-entry-id-141</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9d2175e1c2909ed2372d98b6d8092a5e-141.html#unique-entry-id-141</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[After suffering declining attendances over the last five years the Commander of the Lodge W.Bro Tony Snook and his successor W.Bro Bryan Foster decided that in order to revitalise the Lodge things must change. ...  The Installation date was changed to Friday 2nd March and R.W.Bro David James, PGM for Monmouth agreed to come to give a talk on Royal Ark Mariner Masonry. 

...Unfortunately when the big day arrived Tony Snook was unable to be present due to a family illness but W.Bro Ray Guthrie stepped in to conduct the ceremony and install W.Bro Bryan in the Chair. ...  David James gave a very interesting talk on the chronology of Masonry and the Ark Mariners place in it that was well received by all present.


At the Festive Board the usual toasts were observed and R.W.Bro James was presented with a bunch of leeks and daffodils as a small thank you from the brethren.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Past Masters round off Hallam&#x27;s 90th year</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-02-22T11:27:13+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a41e2e6743f82e61e792769c493f802d-140.html#unique-entry-id-140</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a41e2e6743f82e61e792769c493f802d-140.html#unique-entry-id-140</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[To round off our 90th year a Past Masters meeting was arranged for February, our most senior lodge members taking the Principal offices, W.Bro Bob Cole (WM), W.Bro Roger Poynton (SW) and W.Bro Robin Bex (JW) , over a hundred years of experience between them !! ...  Eldon Mark Lodge attended on their Fraternal visit and all present witnessed a superb ceremony proving that the &ldquo;pasties&rdquo; still had it !!   Our recent advancee Bro Shane Danter just about escaped serious injury when the Senior Warden mistook him for his brother Thomas who was the Candidate !   Again laughter and the animated buzz of conversation filled the Dining hall as the Lodge enjoyed the delights of the Festive Board. 

...The photo shows Bro Thomas Danter surrounded by the Past Masters of the Lodge with one &ldquo;imposter&rdquo; !!
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark v Craft Bowls a close run thing&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-03-15T22:55:42+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d46545c2ce44b8e2e9fd2c85bcca01d9-139.html#unique-entry-id-139</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d46545c2ce44b8e2e9fd2c85bcca01d9-139.html#unique-entry-id-139</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The indoor Craft v Mark bowls match is now firmly established in the Provincial calendar, organised by the Somerset Masonic Bowling Association members Mike Adams, David Perkins and Gerry Peace it is always an enjoyable morning for those of us who are regular players as well as those who aren't. ...  On the morning of the 15th March the two teams of 16 players meet for the match led by team captains, Stuart Hadler for the Craft and Ray Guthrie for the Mark.   The four rinks commence battle and very soon the Minehead Mark Mafia on rink five have built up a substantial lead, after 11 ends they are leading 25 to 5!   The other rinks were a little more evenly matched and after 18 ends the score across the four rinks is Mark 74 Craft 72, a very close result. 

...The PGM Stuart Hadler giving instructions to his fellow team members, Tony Everett on the mat watches as his wood heads towards the jack.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>GLMMM withdraws recognition of French Lodges</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-03-15T17:20:26+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a1ef8eab2662de86fa8291912a9ac18b-138.html#unique-entry-id-138</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a1ef8eab2662de86fa8291912a9ac18b-138.html#unique-entry-id-138</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[This will shortly spread to the Mark and other Orders administered from this building as the Grand Lodge of M.M.M. of France take new members from the suspended G.L.N.F.

...Between the two Consecrations, the founders each received a text message from the Grand Master of the G.L.M.M.M. of France stating they were each expelled from the Order with immediate effect.

The Mark Executive Committee have considered this very recent development and have concluded that they are not able to accept such interference in the organisation and running of the Order in the U.K. and in light of this, they have concluded that they should recommend to the Grand Master that recognition be withdrawn from G.L.M.M.M. 

...The Mark Executive will recommend to the Executives of the other Orders administered from here that they follow suit and in the meantime all visiting to and from the French equivalents of these Orders be suspended.&rdquo;


...You may be aware that at the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge held at Mark Masons&rsquo; Hall on Tuesday 13th March 2012, recognition of the G.L.M.M.M. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Deputy PGM</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-07T19:50:40+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/90ced5ba8e54d77ef4045f9016e1e67c-137.html#unique-entry-id-137</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/90ced5ba8e54d77ef4045f9016e1e67c-137.html#unique-entry-id-137</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[After serving the Province in an exemplary fashion as Provincial Grand Secretary for the last five years, the Provincial Grand Master has announced that John will be the new Deputy PGM with effect from the 5th May 2012.   No doubt he will carry out his duties in his new role in the same distinguished manner.   He is seen here at Mark Grand Lodge with Fifi who is a VIP in the mark Hierarchy 
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Provincial Secretary</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-08T19:43:39+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9409b3a767a649d82126c0120793e6bf-136.html#unique-entry-id-136</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9409b3a767a649d82126c0120793e6bf-136.html#unique-entry-id-136</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master has announced that W.Bro John Smith will take over from W.Bro John Morgan as Provincial Secretary at the Provincial meeting on Saturday 5th May 2012.   John was Advanced into the Mendip Lodge of Mark Master Masons No. 781 in 1999, was Master 2008/2009 and is the current Secretary.   He was appointed Provincial Grand Registrar for 2010/2011.   John was also Elevated into William Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No. 191 in 2004 and W. ...  He is a founder member of the Isle of Wedmore MMM No. 1912 and Founder Treasurer of Portal Lodge RAM No. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Trevor Celebrates 50 years in Mark</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-12-20T19:16:04+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fe5f564ee74e4ce6e552d0c9ac0435af-135.html#unique-entry-id-135</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fe5f564ee74e4ce6e552d0c9ac0435af-135.html#unique-entry-id-135</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At a well-attended meeting of Carnarvon Lodge in December David Nelson presented W.Bro Trevor Ewins with a certificate commemorating his Advancement into Carnarvon Lodge in1961.   Carnarvon is the Provincial Grand Master&rsquo;s own lodge and in his presentation he made reference to the positive contribution that Trevor had made on the Lodge and many of its members.   Trevor was Master in 1971 and has held many of the offices of the Lodge.   Made a Provincial officer in 1973 he went on to become a Grand Officer in 1995 and was promoted to PGSD in 2009.


Photo &ndash; Trevor shares a joke with the Provincial Grand Master during the presentation of his certificate, watched over by Ed Cannon Master of Carnarvon.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>2012 Royal Ark Mariner Assembly</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2012-02-12T16:58:17+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ef77610bd5e12c6381bfd50450204926-134.html#unique-entry-id-134</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ef77610bd5e12c6381bfd50450204926-134.html#unique-entry-id-134</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[There were five visiting Provincial Grand Masters present, Geoff Isaac - Cornwall, David James - Monmouth, John Platts - Bristol, Martin Brown - Wiltshire and Jeremy Short - Dorset.   The Provincial Grand Master was also supported by W.Bro Tony Heliker, Provincial Senior Warden and W.Bro David Bates acting as Provincial Junior Grand Warden together with other members of his Provincial Team.


In addition to appointing 8 Royal Ark Mariners to Provincial Rank, members of the Lodge of Improvement headed by Derek Wilton recited exerpts from the RAM ritual in an excellent fashion. 

...The brethren enjoyed an excellent lunch and were regaled by R.W.Bro David James the PGM of Monmouth with a very humorous response to the toast to our visitors.


Six of the eight recipients were able to attend the meeting  to be appointed to Roayal Ark Mariner Provincial Grand Rank, they are from left to right. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Thieves damage Langport Masonic Hall.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-12-20T21:52:00+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6c75deb43dea574a002a50432bc5e74a-133.html#unique-entry-id-133</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6c75deb43dea574a002a50432bc5e74a-133.html#unique-entry-id-133</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[We read every day in the press and see on the news the problems caused by thieves who steel cable from the railway network, but the high price of all scrap metals has implications for everyone it would seem.   Thieves have removed the lead from the roof of Langport Masonic Hall, the theft was only discovered when water started leaking into the hall causing a considerable amount of damage.   It was very difficult to know  how to protect property that isn't occupied continuously but no doubt the lead will be replaced with something that's not quite so tempting for the light fingered.


It is hoped that the hall will be functioning again by the end of January.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>The Ark Travels to Minehead</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-11T16:22:45+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/aecebb008c4e682fdc4a32844728402d-132.html#unique-entry-id-132</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/aecebb008c4e682fdc4a32844728402d-132.html#unique-entry-id-132</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Mike Nathan, the Commander of Herbert Fuller Royal Ark Mariner Lodge in Wincanton and a good number of his brethren travelled to Minehead to present the Ark to the newly Installed Commander of the Exmoor Lodge W.Bro Ray Johnson Smith.


Mike is holding the Ark in the photo surrounded by members of both Lodges
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Somerdale Provincial Visit</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-18T11:03:26+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/b12460c61a3ff70e5cfd64c7fbbb2b1d-131.html#unique-entry-id-131</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/b12460c61a3ff70e5cfd64c7fbbb2b1d-131.html#unique-entry-id-131</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the meeting of Somerdale Lodge on the 18th November the Provincial Grand Master and a team of  Provincial Officers of the year attended to see Bro Tony Giles advanced.   Also present at the meeting was WB Stuart Hadler PGStdBr the Provincial Grand Master of the Somerset Craft Province and WB Roger Blake the Deputy Provincial Grand Master of the Mark Province of Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. 


In the photo front row are Roger Blake - DPGM Glos and Herfordsire, David Nelson PGM, Stuart Hadler, and John Morgan Deputy PGM designate.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Janet&#x27;s Cookbook</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-22T15:27:06+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2af5bb76d86e66de47173d17c07c60a8-130.html#unique-entry-id-130</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2af5bb76d86e66de47173d17c07c60a8-130.html#unique-entry-id-130</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[When my son Daniel suggested that I write a cookery book, I had two big reservations - one - who on earth would buy it - and two where was I going to get the energy&nbsp;just having started chemo. ...  Claire Halifax did the stunning illustrations, my Daughter Charlotte did most of the proof reading, I did the recipes and Terry paid for it to be printed so that all proceeds could be donated. 

...Janet undertakes an impromptu book signing after the annual Royal Somerset/Forest of Selwood Sunday Lunch in July this year, Janet's husband Terry is a member of both Lodges and Portal Mark Lodge.   Janet & Terry helped by members and their wives from both Lodges raised &pound;750 for the Oncology Dept.


You can order a copy of the book from Janet at The Lilacs, Upper Vobster, Bath, BA3 5SB send a cheque for &pound;12.99 P&P  inclusive. 
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Irwin RAM host Mark Masons</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-22T14:19:51+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/18f4ac75ff4d543c60c2a37f24e693b3-129.html#unique-entry-id-129</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/18f4ac75ff4d543c60c2a37f24e693b3-129.html#unique-entry-id-129</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the regular Meeting of Irwin Lodge on Monday 21st November, the Worshipful Commander , Toby Hammond welcomed a group of 14 Mark Master Masons into the Lodge to hear a short talk on the degree from W.Bro Ray Guthrie Deputy PGM.   The object was to make brethren aware of the degree and to answer any questions that they may have about it. ...  Thanks go to our Commander and Scribe W.Bro Neil Hawes for organising the evening, which proved very successful.


...Bro David Nelson the PGM and W.Bro Roger Blake the Deputy PGM of Gloucester and Herefordshire.


...Senior Warden John Muskett explains the symbols on the Royal Ark Mariner tracing Board to Bill Roberts.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Hallam 90th Celebrations</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-23T20:40:28+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6faaf3bdd1c0d928ef1f7ae2d36f85c6-128.html#unique-entry-id-128</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6faaf3bdd1c0d928ef1f7ae2d36f85c6-128.html#unique-entry-id-128</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Hallam Lodge celebrated its 90th Anniversary in great style at the Commodore Hotel, Kewstoke on Saturday 22nd October, when more than seventy members and guests enjoyed a wonderful evening with plenty of fun and laughter to go with the meal and the dance afterwards.


Guest of honour V.W.Bro Ray Guthrie gave a heartfelt toast to the Lodge on this special occasion and looked forward to the Lodges centenary in ten years time.


W.Bro Barrie Webster explained that in its 90th year the members of Hallam Lodge had decided to support the Royal British Legion, an organisation also celebrating its 90th year. 

...He Presented a cheque for the magnificent sum of &pound;750 from the Lodge to Mrs Marjorie Lees, the secretary of the Burnham on Sea Branch of the Royal British Legion.   Mrs Lees responded by thanking the members of Hallam Lodge for their great generosity  and added that she had also thoroughly enjoyed the evening.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>PGM shows of New Apron</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-11T14:23:24+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/3b78d63037a75b92b5310e7a40bded69-127.html#unique-entry-id-127</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/3b78d63037a75b92b5310e7a40bded69-127.html#unique-entry-id-127</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master, David Nelson was able to use his new apron for the first time on a recent trip to Spain.   The Apron was a gift from his wife Catherine and clearly fits him quite well.   If you look carefully at the photo you can see that the old apron has been put to good use as a cushion for his working tools!
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial visit to Royal Cumberland Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-11-10T09:07:12+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fe6c8c97be45ba418cb32e101a93e72c-126.html#unique-entry-id-126</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fe6c8c97be45ba418cb32e101a93e72c-126.html#unique-entry-id-126</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[No less than twenty - four provincial offices accompanied the Provincial Grand Master to the regular meeting of the Royal Cumberland Lodge in Bath on Wednesday 9th November. ...  Although there was no ceremony this evening the Lodge secretary Worshipful Brother Richard Cooper gave a first-class rendition of the lecture on the Mark Mason's degree.   This was received with acclamation and both the Master and Provincial Grand Master congratulated Richard on the standard of his work.


The Provincial Grand Master then presented the Lodges newest member, David Anthony with his Grand Lodge Certificate. 

... From left to right David Nelson -  PGM, Brother David Anthony, Derran Lobb -  Master and Deputy PGM Ray Guthrie.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Brethren to be appointed to Provincial RAM Grand Rank</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-29T20:16:41+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1e473042f80c540077b2eeb2d0061b5b-124.html#unique-entry-id-124</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1e473042f80c540077b2eeb2d0061b5b-124.html#unique-entry-id-124</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master will appoint the following brethren to Royal Ark Mariner Provincial Grand Rank at the Provincial Assembly on Saturday 11th February 2012 at Nailsea Masonic Hall.


...Neil Hawes - Irwin Lodge No 119


...Mike Waterman - Herbert Fuller Lodge No 128


...Tony Wilcox - Portal Lodge No 155


...David Jenkins - William Long Lodge No 191
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>2011 Appointments to Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-23T22:42:41+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7c5167b4743ef7976f7d53548b30180e-123.html#unique-entry-id-123</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7c5167b4743ef7976f7d53548b30180e-123.html#unique-entry-id-123</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Most Worshipful Grand Master, will be conferring Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank on the following Brethren at the Annual  Assembly of Royal Ark Mariners to be held at Freemasons Hall, Great Queen Street, London on Tuesday 13th December 2011.


Appointments to Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank


...Trevor Charles Burton, Portal Lodge RAM No. 

...David Barry Platten, Herbert Fuller Lodge RAM No 128


...We offer all three brethren our sincere congratulations.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Bob Cole 50 Years in Masonry</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-10-23T19:38:20+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/62231a01dcbb1598083ff62006efe7c0-122.html#unique-entry-id-122</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/62231a01dcbb1598083ff62006efe7c0-122.html#unique-entry-id-122</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Southy Lodge Installation , Monday 17th October 2011.   In addition to seeing W.Bro Derek Wilton install his successor W.BroPeter Henley in a superb fashion W.Bro Bob Cole was presented with a certificate celebrating his 50 years in Masonry by the Provincial Grand Master R.W.Bro Stuart Hadler.   It was a very special occasion with great support for Derek and Bob shown by the number of Mark Masons present, including the PGM David Nelson and his deputy Ray Guthrie.   Stuart Hadler went to great lengths to research Bob's Masonic career and how it linked with the history of Southey Lodge.


In the photo are W.Bros David (my young brother) Sage, Ray Guthrie, Chris Gingell - Provincial Assistant GDC, Peter Henley, Master of Southey and Provincial Steward, Bob Cole, Stuart Hadler PGM, David Mason, Provincial JW and David Nelson - PGM for the Mark Degree in Somerset.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Portcullis supports the Teddies</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-09-27T20:45:55+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/c49b6f9eece5c1b914d26b70a1f09182-121.html#unique-entry-id-121</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/c49b6f9eece5c1b914d26b70a1f09182-121.html#unique-entry-id-121</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the meeting of Portcullis MMM Lodge No.1656 on September 20th, the WM, W.Bro John Vowles, presented W.Bro Steve Defries, with a cheque for &pound;100 towards the Teddy Bear Fund.   In thanking the Lodge for their generosity, W.Bro Steve mentioned that this year he had been able to send on over 500 teddy bears to hospitals to give to sick and injured children.   This news was received with much acclamation from the brethren.  


  


Photo shows Steve Defries receiving the cheque from the Master of Portcullis  John Vowles. (not to be mistaken for two teddies)]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Paris to Yatton by bike for Meningitis UK</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-07-11T21:40:00+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9a3b021615c52d4ba48242587adc6828-120.html#unique-entry-id-120</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9a3b021615c52d4ba48242587adc6828-120.html#unique-entry-id-120</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Cycle started from under the Eiffel Tower, then returned to Yatton via, Versailles, Evreux, Honfleur, Caen, Portsmouth, Salisbury and Frome, cycling 330 miles in the process.&nbsp;   Sunday between Versailles and Evreux we cycled 71 miles in 100&deg;F of Heat and Monday between Evreux and Honfleur 65 miles in 118&deg;F heat, Normandy&rsquo;s hottest day for 90 years.&nbsp;   Over the Sunday and Monday we drank 10 litres of liquid (Not Beer) each, without the need to visit the gents once, literally the liquid past through every part of the body.&nbsp; ...  Months of training had seen us frequent many pubs as well as conquering Cheddar gorge on regular 30 mile practice runs clad in very fetching Lycra!


...Our thanks go to the Masonic family who donated a good percentage of the money, as did the local community, friends, Business and Yeo Valley Lions.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>SAMMs AGM 2011</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-03-20T20:06:22+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ade0e9b7c9fb3d23e7f3d9e8b4c372f3-119.html#unique-entry-id-119</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ade0e9b7c9fb3d23e7f3d9e8b4c372f3-119.html#unique-entry-id-119</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the annual meeting of the Somerset Antient Mark Masons, the secretary Geoff Nash reported that 2010 turned out to be an extremely busy year for the SAMM&rsquo;s with six demonstrations undertaken during the year. ...  Emblematic & Savoy Lodges at Mark Masons&rsquo; Hall, London. 

...&pound;2000 had been donated by these Lodges to the SAMMs charity fund and it was decided that this year &pound;500 would be given to each of the four following charities.


...Macmillan Cancer support in Bath, Bristol and Somerset. www.macmillan.org.uk


...After the meeting the members enjoyed a very pleasant Lunch at Nailsea MH with their wives and friends.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Somerset 2011 Supreme Grand Chapter Appointments.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-03-10T20:17:28+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1751765c869202ee500787d2b1772579-118.html#unique-entry-id-118</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1751765c869202ee500787d2b1772579-118.html#unique-entry-id-118</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Grand Master has been pleased to make the following appointments and promotions to Grand Rank:-


...Stephen C Gale&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; PGStB


Alan G R Holton&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; PGStB


...These appointments and promotions will take effect from Thursday 28th April 2011.


Brethren of theMark Province of Somerset offer their congratulations to all the above brethren.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Somerset 2011 Craft Grand Lodge appointments</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-03-10T20:14:32+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1c04ceedd62e369040718ffd94e53a41-117.html#unique-entry-id-117</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1c04ceedd62e369040718ffd94e53a41-117.html#unique-entry-id-117</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Grand Master has been pleased to make the following appointments and promotions to Grand Rank:-


...Peter Boughton Ball            to  PJGD


Reginald Leonard Ferm      to   PJGD 


...These appointments and promotions will take effect from Wednesday 27th April 2011.


Brethren of theMark Province of Somerset offer their congratulations to all the above brethren.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Grand Officers for 2011</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-03-08T10:32:21+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/81f2ddbb3e6db36ee094c647f1d8dfc2-116.html#unique-entry-id-116</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/81f2ddbb3e6db36ee094c647f1d8dfc2-116.html#unique-entry-id-116</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Most Worshipful Grand Master, His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent, GCVO will be pleased to invest the following Brethren of this Province with Grand Rank Honours at he Annual Investiture Meeting of Grand Lodge on Tuesday 7th June 2011.  

...Graham Bryan Gamble, to Past Assistant Grand Sword Bearer

...Christopher Robin White, to Past Assistant Grand Standard Bearer

...Peter Duncan Atkins, Past Grand Steward, to Grand Junior Deacon

...Derek Anthony Shailer, PAGSwdBr, to Past Grand Junior Deacon]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>St John Presentation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-03-08T09:54:24+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0e2f86f907d47e7d1092cf4ae265d2b3-115.html#unique-entry-id-115</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0e2f86f907d47e7d1092cf4ae265d2b3-115.html#unique-entry-id-115</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Following the very generous response to the PGMs appeal by all the Mark and Royal Ark Mariner Lodges in the Province the Provincial Grand Master presented a heart monitor/defibrillator and accessories together with two AED packs to St John Ambulance. 

...From St John Ross Young, the County Executive  Officer was supported by many volunteers including, Richard Mulligan - County  Commander, Julie Hope - County Commissioner, John Roberts - County Chairman, Will Newton County Ambulance Officer and paramedics Hannah Thomas & Beckie Whitelock.


...In reply Richard Mulligan and John Roberts expressed their grateful thanks for the generous donation and explained how important the heart monitor/defibrillator would be  and how it would be used throughout Somerset and by neighbouring St John counties.


...Known as a 12 lead  diagnostic ecg monitor, 4 leads are attached to the limbs limbs and 6 to the chest, this array of inputs allows accurate diagnosis that a heart attack is being or has been suffered by the patient and what area of the heart is or could be damaged. 

...It is fair to say that we were all very impressed with the reception we received on the day and for the amount of effort the St John members made to explain how important the equipment was to them.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Priates of Penzance</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-02-27T21:38:15+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5796b774e9ae3a1157c480c042c2fe71-114.html#unique-entry-id-114</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5796b774e9ae3a1157c480c042c2fe71-114.html#unique-entry-id-114</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Attend an Installation of a Brother who lives on the Scilly Isles but attends a Mark Lodge in Penzance.   Organized by that intrepid traveller VWBro Arthur John Lendon, brethren of Exmoor Lodge met up at the Taunton branch of Morrison&rsquo;s for a low calorie &ldquo;fry up&rdquo; before catching the 10:50 am train to Penzance. 


On arrival at Penzance they grabbed a quick Cornish pasty before being taken by taxi (most of the drivers were masons) to the Masonic Hall where tea was provided.


After an excellent Installation attended by about 100 brethren including the PGM, DPGM and the APGM of Cornwall, the evening was concluded with a first class meal and the usual Masonic toast at a nearby Hotel.


The return journey was on the Riviera sleeper train, which arrive back in Taunton at 1:45 am the following day. 
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Royal Ark Mariner Assembly</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-02-12T15:37:59+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fb551956328688844d5bbc01c8ab370e-113.html#unique-entry-id-113</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fb551956328688844d5bbc01c8ab370e-113.html#unique-entry-id-113</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It was a bright sunny Saturday morning for the drive to Nailsea for the annual Assembly of Royal Ark Mariners for the Province of Somerset. ...  it was obviously going to be a well attended meeting indeed there were just over 100 Royal Ark Mariners there to enjoy themselves.


The Provincial Grand Master entered the Lodge room in procession with his team of Provincial Officers, when all were in place he welcomed all brethren to the meeting, particularly R.W.Bro Geoff Isaacs PGM or Cornwall and R.W.Bro David James the PGM of Monmouth who had obviously travelled far to be with us. 

...This was followed by a very interesting paper entitled "A deeper meaning of the Royal Ark Mariner Ceremony" by W.Bro Vernon Harding the Provincial Grand Chaplain, this was very well received by all brethren present and the PGM thanked W.Bro Harding for a very thought provoking paper.


...The PGM then welcomed the new members of the degree, there being present 12 of the twenty three brethren who had been elevated in the last twelve months. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New PGM for the Craft.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-11-28T17:51:33+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/22a0ffd3b62f2ab91e2560953062f80a-112.html#unique-entry-id-112</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/22a0ffd3b62f2ab91e2560953062f80a-112.html#unique-entry-id-112</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Grand Master has appointed W.Bro Stuart Hadler,  PSGD of UGLE, Deputy PGM of Somerset to be the next Provincial Grand Master for Somerset.   He takes up his duties on 1st April 2011 and he will be installed at the Provincial Meeting on the 14th April at Weston super Mare.  


W.Bro Stuart is a Past Master of Gerard Lodge No 8999 at Keynsham, a Past Master of Somerdale Mark Lodge also at Keynsham and Past Commander of the Nailsea Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners. 


The Provincial Grand Master and the brethren of the Mark Province of Somerset offer him their full support and wish him well in the future.


The new Provincial Grand Master has appointed W.Bro Ray Guthrie as his Deputy PGM and W.Bros David Medlock and John Winston, Assistant Provincial Grand Masters. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Team visit Eldon Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-02-03T17:16:46+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/bddab30f558815ff506549effb9e737e-111.html#unique-entry-id-111</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/bddab30f558815ff506549effb9e737e-111.html#unique-entry-id-111</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the regular Eldon Mark Lodge meeting at Clevedon Masonic Hall on the 3rd February the PGM and his team of Provincial Officers were present when the Master of Eldon Peter Harris MBE and his team of officers advance Bro Malcolm 'Mac' McKillop. 

...Roy Williams - Lodge Registrar of Marks, Pat Parker - Past Deputy PGM and John Nicholas Provincial Senior Deacon.


...Lodge members, Junior Warden - Chris Haliburton, Ron Ponsford who acted as Junior Deacon this evening and looks like he is eating a golf ball! 

...Graham Rice - Provincial Junior Deacon and David Mason who presented the working tools this evening, in addition to conducting the raffle!


The Masters of other Mark Lodges, Terry Harrison -  Carnarvon, Chris Beckett - William Long, Nigel Middleton - Somerdale and Mike Morrish - George Norman.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-10-23T21:59:41+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/63e52bb3dffe498298e19c0df130f4a9-110.html#unique-entry-id-110</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/63e52bb3dffe498298e19c0df130f4a9-110.html#unique-entry-id-110</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[23rd October 2010.   The Grand Master has honoured three Somerset brethren by promoting them to Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank.   They are W.Bro Tony Fisher of the Irwin Lodge of RAM No 119, W Bro John Allan of the Herbert Fuller RAM Lodge No 128 and W.Bro David Veal of Exmoor RAM Lodge No 697.   They will receive their promotion at the annual Assembly of Royal Ark Mariners to be held at Freemasons Hall, London on Tuesday 14th December 2010.   We offer them all our sincere congratulations.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Team visits Nailsea Mark Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-01-10T10:48:48+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/27871006f8a9557d2c278413bda093b7-109.html#unique-entry-id-109</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/27871006f8a9557d2c278413bda093b7-109.html#unique-entry-id-109</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It was a splendid evening at Nailsea Mark Lodge on the occasion of their January meeting, The Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro David Nelson accepted the gavel from the Worshipful Master, Sam Lamkin to conduct the ceremony, advancing Bro Michael Holden-Wadsworth to the honourable degree of Mark Master Mason.   He was ably assisted by a full team of officers including the Provincial Senior and Junior Wardens, Tony Wilcox and Neil Hawes.   It was a wonderful Mark evening with over 60 brethren present, the meeting was followed by the usual excellent Nailsea Festive Board.


The Master Sam Lamkin, who at 91 is probably the oldest Master of any Mark Lodge in the country, commented that he couldn't have done a better ceremony himself!!


...The Provincial Grand Organist - Barry Renwick, Provincial JW - Neil Hawes, Lodge JW - Ted Guy, Master, Provincial Grand Master, Lodge SW John Wyatt and Provincial SW Tony Wilcox.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>L of I Visits William Long</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-01-31T14:47:40+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1dd7dc336ecb05178917a3dd98aa5672-108.html#unique-entry-id-108</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1dd7dc336ecb05178917a3dd98aa5672-108.html#unique-entry-id-108</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The main item of business at  the January meeting of the William Long Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners was to receive an explanation of the Royal Ark Mariner Tracing Board.   The Commander John Smith who is also a member of the L of I team, welcomed the Preceptor, W.Bro Derek Wilton and his team to the Lodge. ...  For more information about the work of the Somerset Lodge of Improvement please contact Derek Wilton.


<span style="color:#0000FF;"><u><a href="mailto:derek.witon@sky.com">derek.witon@sky.com</a></u></span>


Members of the Lodge of Improvement headed by Derek Wilton, at the top of the ladder, flanked by 
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Province and Travelling Ark arrive together&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-12-06T19:43:52+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2bcc57b8c7db74df21917e6b5723d0b7-107.html#unique-entry-id-107</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2bcc57b8c7db74df21917e6b5723d0b7-107.html#unique-entry-id-107</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[PGM and the Provincial team, but 6 members of Irwin Lodge with the Travelling Ark. ...  PGM declined,&nbsp;giving the WC of Thackeray the chance to conduct his first RAM ceremony of the year.&nbsp;  The Travelling Ark was&nbsp;presented by&nbsp;WC John Bathe-Taylor and the visitors from Irwin Lodge. 

...The PGM flanked by Alan Douglas Commander and Richard Ellis this evenings candidate, together with the provincial team.


The photo above shows Commander Alan Douglas with the PGM and his team and the photo right shows The Commander receiving the Travelling Ark from John Bathe-Taylor, Commander of Irwin Lodge of RAM and his brethren.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>St Andrew&#x27;s Lodge off the tee&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2011-01-21T17:10:28+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d3655ddbe15559f365efc537423ae84c-106.html#unique-entry-id-106</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d3655ddbe15559f365efc537423ae84c-106.html#unique-entry-id-106</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[After months of hard work by many of the founders but particularly bey the founding secretary Mike Stratton and the founding Treasurer Roger Penny it was all systems go as the Lodge was Consecrated by the Provincial Grand Master, David Nelson. 


...By 10.30 the hall was alive with one hundred Mark Master Masons also enjoying the bacon butties, ready for business to commence at 11am.


...The new Master then installed and invested his officers and gave a brief address thanking all those who had been involved in the founding of the new Lodge. 


All brethren then retired to the dining room, where an excellent lunch of ham egg and chips followed by apple pie and ice cream was served. 

...(l tor) Lodge SW - Tony Guthrie, David Nelson - PGM, Master of St Andrew's - Ray Guthrie, Installing Master - Geoff Nash and Lodge JW - Alex Carter.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Team at Nailsea Mark</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-09T16:24:01+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0950d7da84608190b5ccd8718e0bee2b-105.html#unique-entry-id-105</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0950d7da84608190b5ccd8718e0bee2b-105.html#unique-entry-id-105</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Installation meeting 9th November 2009


Installation Night 2009, the new Master Richard Ellis, known to many of us as the Provincial Scribe Ezra of the Holy Royal Arch in Somerset, takes the Chair of Nailsea Mark Lodge.   Photographed here with his Junior Warden, Stan Wills (left) and Senior Warden Sam Lamkin, Sam is currently the oldest Senior Warden in the Province having just celebrated his 90th birthday!


 There were 46 present to watch IPM Colin Basson made a superb job of Installing Richard including the Deputy Grand Superintendent of the Holy Royal Arch Chapter in Somerset, Bob Biggs and the Provincial Third Principal, Steve Gale. 


NOTE, Bro Stan Wills died very suddenly in April aged only 63, he will be missed by all of us who knew him.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Commander for TI</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-07T23:18:34+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/254954d73f80b4bc7a2d34fc984c2c77-104.html#unique-entry-id-104</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/254954d73f80b4bc7a2d34fc984c2c77-104.html#unique-entry-id-104</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It was an excellent evening at Bath Royal Ark Mariners when WB Richard Cooper installed Brother Ray Harris into the chair as Commander of the Lodge.   Although there was a minor hic-up with the administration all was resolved and a good installation ceremony was enjoyed by all who were present.   The Immediate Past Commander RWB Dr Ewen Page GMRAC (HC) ensured that the high standards were maintained.   The photo shows l to r, John Nicholson JW, The PGM, Commander Ray Harris and SW Frank Silver.

The Provincial Grand Master presented WB Cooper with a Past Commanders Jewel on behalf of the Lodge thanking him for his work as Commander especially his excellent paper presented at the last meeting as no Candidate was available.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Portal RAM Installation 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-09-16T22:43:40+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7c7cd45b5390518e7e69e75e0a43c1ad-103.html#unique-entry-id-103</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7c7cd45b5390518e7e69e75e0a43c1ad-103.html#unique-entry-id-103</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Installation night 16th September 2009.   Clive Lambert holding the new RAM Provincial Banner, Graham Jeffery, SW.   The new Commander, Chris Robbins, David Nelson PGM and Installing Commander Terry Wadman]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Travelling Keystone moves to Bath</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-11-22T22:20:07+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5a2f84820464d989cdad503725af7739-102.html#unique-entry-id-102</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5a2f84820464d989cdad503725af7739-102.html#unique-entry-id-102</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Neil Hawes, the Provincial Junior Grand Warden who is Master of the Lodge presided.


...Dr Ewan Page gave us an excellent explanation of the Lecture on the degree of Mark Master Mason. 

...Mike Gagg accompanied by no less than twelve of his brethren, presented the Master, Neil Hawes with the Somerset Travelling Keystone.


It was a very good meeting followed by an excellent festive board where the good atmosphere continued. 

...The photo above shows Mike Gagg presenting Neil Hawes with the Travelling Keystone surrounded by the brethren of Mendip Lodge and the Provincial Senior Grand Warden, Tony Wilcox.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New candidate for Somerdale</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-11-19T18:46:44+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a702cdc97eac0e2c8fdf6696b415e60a-101.html#unique-entry-id-101</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a702cdc97eac0e2c8fdf6696b415e60a-101.html#unique-entry-id-101</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Friday 19th November 2010, over 40 Mark Master Masons witness W.Bro Nigel Middleton and his team of officers advance Bro Chis James into the degree.   The PGM, his Deputy and Wardens were present as were the Master of Carnarvon Lodge Terry Harrison and twelve of his brethren.


Left to right, John Smith - Pr Registrar, Steve White - Lodge Secretary, Tony Wilcox - Pr Senior Warden, David Nelson - PGM, Nigel Middleton - Master, Chris James - Advancee, Ray Guthrie - DPGM, Neil Hawes - Pr Junior Warden, Lindsay Wilkins - Pr Sword Bearer.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Travelling Ark moors at Keynsham.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-11-15T18:13:40+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/11214f1c7740b3bf976111b012bdee0f-100.html#unique-entry-id-100</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/11214f1c7740b3bf976111b012bdee0f-100.html#unique-entry-id-100</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[15th November - Brethren of the Fidelity and Unanimity Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners, Taunton sail the Travelling Ark to the Irwin Lodge at Keynsham.   In the photo left to right Sidney French, David Bates, Terry Haggett, John Bathe-Taylor and Richard Francis.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial visit to Irwin RAM Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-11-15T18:13:12+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0085fbaef28ec9cde1a21bae4014d9dc-99.html#unique-entry-id-99</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0085fbaef28ec9cde1a21bae4014d9dc-99.html#unique-entry-id-99</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Monday 15th November 2010, the Provincial Grand Master and his team visit Irwin Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners at Keynsham. 
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Else Lodge Installation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-11-17T15:34:59+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/88dfa73d44094936b0cbc6e3aed172cb-98.html#unique-entry-id-98</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/88dfa73d44094936b0cbc6e3aed172cb-98.html#unique-entry-id-98</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Installation ceremony was well conducted by Wayne Kelly who has enjoyed a very good year in the Chair.   There were visitors from Devon and Gloucestershire in addition of course to a goodly number of members of the SAMMs team.   The new Master is a prominent member of the team often playing the part of the Master or Worshipful Sir in the demonstration ceremonies.


Ian White stepped down as Director of Ceremonies after 12 years excellent service his place taken by David Holder.


...In the photo are Ray Guthrie - DPGM, Mike Willis - SW, Master - Garry Makenzie, Junior Warden -  Brian Aston, Provincial DC - Ray Johnstone Smith (wearing his Grand ADC chain of Office) and Wayne Kelly the Installing Master.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Exmoor RAM Installation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-13T14:46:25+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/249bdec542cad1e5c03ff871a9930c0c-97.html#unique-entry-id-97</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/249bdec542cad1e5c03ff871a9930c0c-97.html#unique-entry-id-97</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Installation night 2009, from left to right Phil Thresher SW, David Nelson PGM, Commander - Peter Thomas and Ray Johnstone-Smith JW.   Although the Commander and his Wardens look like they have had a rocket from the PGM I am assured that such was not the case!   The evening was a very pleasant one with Barrie Baker installing his successor in his usual very competent manner.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Langport Masons Remember Them.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-11-17T09:54:47+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/46b674cc986774eb6f5855b6493355aa-96.html#unique-entry-id-96</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/46b674cc986774eb6f5855b6493355aa-96.html#unique-entry-id-96</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Seven Mark Master Masons and their wives stood in silence at the Huish Episcopi war memorial on Sunday 14th November 2010 in respect of those that gave the ultimate sacrifice 


In the top photograph from left to right Graham Lock (1656) and Alan Holton (162) both representing the Farmers Lodge.   Robert Web (1656) representing the Webb family, Terry Wood (348) representing his regiment, Barrie Baker and John Vowles (1656) representing Portcullis Lodge MMM and Jeff Dale representing Portcullis Craft Lodge.


Following the wreath laying ceremony a short church service was held in the Huish Episcopi parish church opposite the war memorial.


The Brethren and their wives then retired to the Langport Arms for Sunday Lunch.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Monument Lodge Installation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-09-16T23:47:40+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fbcb40a1d6c359c2796de0e53b165416-95.html#unique-entry-id-95</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fbcb40a1d6c359c2796de0e53b165416-95.html#unique-entry-id-95</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Installation Night, 15th September 2010.


The new Master of Monument - W.Bro Jim Nicol with his Senior Warden - John Gould  to his right and on his left Junior Warden - Richard Dunn.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Portcullis Installation 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-18T09:30:47+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ee24b687561c057b0553fc4047a2b574-94.html#unique-entry-id-94</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ee24b687561c057b0553fc4047a2b574-94.html#unique-entry-id-94</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Master John Vowles is flanked by his Wardens, to his left Ken Gillard JW and on his right Mike Johnson SW.   Who are in turn flanked by the Provincial Junior Grand Warden Ian Walker (now fully recovered from his recent heart attack) and Senior Warden Richard Stranger, who is also the Treasurer of Portcullis Mark lodge. 


It was a splendid evening, the Lodge room was packed and Installing Master David Bates carried out his duties to everyones satisfaction.   A cheque was presented by the Charity Steward, W.Bro Terry Haggett on behalf of the Lodge to V.W.Bro Ray Guthrie DPGM, a very generous &pound;500 donation to the PGM's appeal. 


...Including a toast to the Province by that famous double act "Little and Large" alias Tony Hick and Barrie Baker, and a presentation of a bucket of 'experienced golf balls' to the DPGM, which the Master assured him were so experienced they would not get lost again! ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Else Installation 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-21T18:02:27+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5baea391adfd74859abec321fd42d789-93.html#unique-entry-id-93</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5baea391adfd74859abec321fd42d789-93.html#unique-entry-id-93</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[We were honoured by the presence of our Provincial Grand Master David Nelson together with 37 other visitors; a total of 73 Brethren present. 

The incoming Master, Wayne Kelly was presented by his Proposer, Gordon Chenhall, who despite his recent illness and infirmity performed his pleasant duty with great fervour to the delight of all present.   Later in the ceremony and as a mark of his long service to Mark Masonry, the PGM personally promoted Gordon to the immediate Rank of Past Provincial Grand Senior Warden, Gordon&rsquo;s shock and surprise brought a lump to the throat of his many friends present.

The Installing Master, Tony Edwards, assisted by his officers performed a faultless ceremony and in turn Wayne continued that theme with the appointment of his officers and the closing of the Lodge. 

This happy evening overflowed into the Festive Board with a special &ldquo;guess-how-many-coins-in-the-jar competition&rdquo; the total donated by the brethren towards this totalled &pound;230 with &pound;200 being matched by the Lodge. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Monument Mark Installation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-09-18T13:57:32+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0bb0d714b1fb69b37dd07b56ee8f6a67-92.html#unique-entry-id-92</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0bb0d714b1fb69b37dd07b56ee8f6a67-92.html#unique-entry-id-92</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Junior Warden John Gould, Worshipful Master Richard Gale and Senior Warden Jim Nichol who were installed and invested at the Installation meeting on 16th September 2009.   Although there are no candidates for Advancement at the moment all the progressive offices in the Lodge are held by Mark Master Masons, so the future looks good for Monument Lodge.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Secretary installed as Commander</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-10-16T13:24:20+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5bd400ae6fb7ee4a44b206d7a10dce1a-91.html#unique-entry-id-91</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5bd400ae6fb7ee4a44b206d7a10dce1a-91.html#unique-entry-id-91</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The installation was conducted by W.Bro Derek Shailer who told the new Commander at the conclusion of the ceremony "Captain Morgan the ship is now under your direction!"   Previous to Installing John, Derek and his team had Elevated Bro Lindsay Wilkins in a very dignified and sincere way.   Fifty Royal Ark Mariners enjoyed an excellent evening, two very good ceremonies followed by a convivial festive board.


Installation meeting on 14th October 2009, l to r Ray Guthrie DPGM, Sandy Kemlo - Sennior Warden, John Morgan - Commander and Sam Lamkin the Junior Warden. (photo Pat Morrisey)
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>SAMMs visit to Mark Masons Hall</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-09-11T20:08:05+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5ebade3ba64f2a859f28c571069b131e-90.html#unique-entry-id-90</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5ebade3ba64f2a859f28c571069b131e-90.html#unique-entry-id-90</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The meeting was held under the warrant of the Emblematic Lodge of MMM No 350, which was consecrated on 16th February 1885.   The other two Lodges are the Royal Savoy Lodge of MMM No. 355 consecrated 11th July 1885 February 1885 and the Chiswick Lodge of MMM No. 357, consecrated 1st June 1885. 


...David Sparks, the DPGM of Middlesex and Keith Waters APGM were also in attendance as was R.W.Bro John Oakley- Smith the Deputy PGM of Hertfordshire. 


The demonstration by the team was well received and enjoyed by the fifty or so members of the three Lodges present. 

...In the photo, The PGM for Middlesex Peter Halls-Dickerson (centre) surrounded by members of the SAMMs team. 
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Portal Mark Lodge Banner dedication.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-10-29T22:54:55+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/150f16d364f6d95abb1e5fc1c894cec3-89.html#unique-entry-id-89</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/150f16d364f6d95abb1e5fc1c894cec3-89.html#unique-entry-id-89</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The idea for the new banner came from W.Bro Alex Carter, he can be seen supporting the banner in the photograph, to his left is the Provincial Chaplain, Vernon Harding and the PGM and Master of Portal, Alan Thompson to the right of the banner.


It was a truly excellent Mark evening, the ceremony of the banner dedication with an excellent oration by the Provincial Chaplain was followed by a first class explanation of the Lecture on the degree by Alex Carter, Mike Stratton, Ray Conneely and Richard Conneely.


The Provincial Grand Master took the opportunity to thank W.Bro Jim Padwick the Lodge DC for the great support he has given to the Lodge, by making him past Provincial Senior Grand Warden. 

...At the end of the ceremony the Deputy PGM Ray Guthrie addressed the brethren to say how pleased we all were to see him back and looking so well after his recent heart surgery. he went on to say that the surgery had prevented the PGM being present at the Mark v Craft bowls match and the Provincial Golf Challenge. 

...A superb rendition of the Mark Lecture was given by Mike Stratton, Ray Conneely, Richard Conneely and Alex Carter.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Somerset Installed Mark Masters Lodge Installation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-25T21:46:29+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2f10b925553c19d8565ceab7f56b2bfb-88.html#unique-entry-id-88</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2f10b925553c19d8565ceab7f56b2bfb-88.html#unique-entry-id-88</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Master Matt Westley made an excellent job installing his successor Richard Leonard in the Chair of the Lodge.   It was an interesting evening not only the installation but the Travelling Keystone was presented to the new Master by the Immediate Past Master of Portcullis Lodge David Bates, who was well supported by brethren of Portcullis. 


The new Master also presented a very generous cheque for &pound;250 on behalf of the Lodge to the Deputy PGM, Ray Guthrie, for the Provincial Grand Masters appeal.


...IPM of Portcullis Lodge David Bates supported by brethren of the Lodge presents the Travelling keystone to Richard Leonard.   Also in the picture, l to r, Bill Tucker, Terry Haggett, Richard Francis and Barrie Baker.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mendip Lodge member hailed as hero&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-08-18T17:55:26+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/65deb8b2326f200efb72576f5d339dc4-87.html#unique-entry-id-87</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/65deb8b2326f200efb72576f5d339dc4-87.html#unique-entry-id-87</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[John Harris the immediate past master of the Mendip Lodge of Mark Master Masons is not afraid to stand up and be counted as this article from the Mendip Times clearly shows.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>A special Night for Don</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-12-09T18:48:53+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a12bf4eeb583c7ea1b338f2e731f3dfa-86.html#unique-entry-id-86</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a12bf4eeb583c7ea1b338f2e731f3dfa-86.html#unique-entry-id-86</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It was a wonderful evening at Cerdic Lodge MMM on Wednesday 9th December when the Provincial Grand Master paid an official visit to the Lodge. 

...A most interesting paper on the history of Cerdic Lodge was presented by WB Bob Stacey who gave an insight to the Founder Members and development of the Lodge over the last 100 years of uninterruptible service to the Mark Degree that this Lodge had contributed in the Town of Chard which is situated at the boundary of Somerset, Dorset and Devon.   It was interesting to note that Brethren from Mark Lodge in both Devon and Dorset had formed a close association with Cerdic Lodge over many years having frequent visitors to meetings and exchanging fraternal visits on a regular basis.

WB Don Fisher also presented an explanation of the Mark Tracing Board in an exemplary fashion in addition to playing the Organ throughout the evening.   At the completion of the meeting before the Lodge was closed the Provincial Grand Master RWB David Nelson surprised WB Don Fisher by presenting him with the Provincial Grand Masters Certificate of Merit for distinguished service to the Mark and Royal Ark Mariners Degree, he was also given a solid silver Mark Token to commemorate the presentation of the award.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>William Long RAM Installation 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-10-23T17:00:25+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e9ca0ab0fbf099b03fd746cb782c0903-85.html#unique-entry-id-85</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e9ca0ab0fbf099b03fd746cb782c0903-85.html#unique-entry-id-85</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Installation night 2009. photo shows l to r Senior Warden John Smith, Bob Cole RAMGR, representing the PGM, Brian Watkis - Commander and Roger Hutchings Junior Warden.


One candidate was proposed at the Installation meeting and he should be elevated (subject to ballot) on 22nd January 2010.   We always enjoy a good attendance at our meetings and there were 24 members and 21 visitors present to watch W.Bro. ...  We now look forward to another happy and successful year by the sea side at Burnham on sea.   (Report by Geoff Nash)]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>William Long Installation 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-10-16T21:48:15+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9b7d0c11867024c75100b9c29a3f40bb-84.html#unique-entry-id-84</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9b7d0c11867024c75100b9c29a3f40bb-84.html#unique-entry-id-84</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Installation night, October 16th 2009.   W.Bro Arthur Miller installed Terry Arlow in the Chair.   It was a pleasant evening with 21 visitors and 24 members attending.   A candidate was proposed on the night and he should be advanced subject to ballot at the January meeting.   The photo shows the Provincial Senior Grand Warden, Richard Stranger with the new Master and Chris Becket the Lodge Senior Warden.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Golf Challenge 2010</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-08-19T18:59:04+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6399809772c840e3b72623335f2e5ea5-83.html#unique-entry-id-83</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6399809772c840e3b72623335f2e5ea5-83.html#unique-entry-id-83</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Thursday August the 19th at Bath Golf Club, the course is in excellent condition and four teams of six players from the Craft, Chapter, Mark and Knights Templar play for the Provincial Challenge Trophy. ...  The Guest of honour at the dinner following the game was Excellent Companion Alan Thompson, the third Provincial Grand Principal who presented the Prizes.   W Bro David Medlock assistant Provincial Grand Master was there to cheer the Craft team but unfortunately was unable to join us for dinner.


Alan Thompson presents the winners of the 'twos' competition with their prizes, W Bro John Knight, representing the Craft (Master elect of Somerset Fairway Lodge) and John Mansell representing KT.


Excellent Companion Alan Thompson presents the Trophy to the winning Mark Team - Tony Guthrie, Richard Stone, John Nicholson, Alan Thompson, Derek Wilton, Malcolm Head and Ray Guthrie.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Secretaries Lodge No 1641</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-10-16T17:26:46+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/b5f1478adcd80acdc732f00aff64482a-82.html#unique-entry-id-82</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/b5f1478adcd80acdc732f00aff64482a-82.html#unique-entry-id-82</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Lodge which meets twice a year in various locations throughout the country usually holds its installation meeting in October each year in the Province of the new Worshipful Master.


Right Worshipful Brother John Platts, the Provincial Grand Master for Bristol and Master of the Lodge installed in our own PGM David Nelson in the chair of the Lodge.   In taking the chair our Provincial Grand Master became the third Provincial Secretary and Provincial Grand Master from Somerset to do so, following in the distinguished footsteps of R.W. 

...The new worshipful Master was supported in by the members of his own Lodge and of course many visitors from the Province of Somerset. 

...V.W.Bro Ray Guthrie DPGM of Somerset was a guest of the Lodge As a representative of the 'home' Province and by Lodge tradition he was the only Grand Officer wearing dress regalia. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Cerdic RAM is 25</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-09-03T19:59:20+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/04a3ed511d25bbfbf1429a8830c71fad-81.html#unique-entry-id-81</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/04a3ed511d25bbfbf1429a8830c71fad-81.html#unique-entry-id-81</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It was a special evening at Cerdic RAM on 2nd September, not just for the Installation of a new Commander, Bill Newton but to celebrate the Lodge's 25th Birthday.   Before the Installation ceremony, W.Bro Peter Knapman the Lodge DC read the oration originally given at the consecration by W.Bro the Reverend Prebendary Ron Denman, the then Provincial Chaplain.   The Installation was followed by a sherry reception in the Lodge ante room attended by the brethren of Cerdic and their guests.


Deputy PGM Ray Guthrie with Ron Troup SW, The new Commander Bill Newton and Senior Warden Kevin Aylott


...Bob Loader JD of the Lodge with the Deputy Provincial DC Roger Hutchings.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Travelling Ark</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-10-08T17:39:07+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fd34d9ed7cd1fe5e90cea9a0bdbc75fa-80.html#unique-entry-id-80</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fd34d9ed7cd1fe5e90cea9a0bdbc75fa-80.html#unique-entry-id-80</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[On Friday October 8th the Worshipful Commander Worshipful Brother Bill Newton, of the Cerdic Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No.571 meeting at Chard, travelled to Taunton where he presented the Travelling Ark to Worshipful Brother Jon Winston, the Worshipful Commander of the Fidelity & Unanimity Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No. ...  He was accompanied by seven of his Brethren. 

There they enjoyed an excellent ceremony of Elevation and afterwards sampled the joys of the traditional Festive Board of this Lodge consisting of Boiled Beef and Carrots finishing with Apple Pie with Clotted Cream. ...  The Director of Ceremonies managed to get them happily on their way 9.45pm  


Centre of the photo the Commander of 348 John Winston receives the Travelling Ark from the Commander of Cerdic RAM, Bill Newton.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Thackeray RAM Installation 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-10-06T15:51:51+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e8640c399939eb063b3eff225603ef12-79.html#unique-entry-id-79</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e8640c399939eb063b3eff225603ef12-79.html#unique-entry-id-79</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Steve Williams installed Neil into the Commander's chair in a confident and reassuring manner, and the good humour of both the outgoing and incoming Commanders made for a moving and very pleasant evening that augers well for the forthcoming year.   We have 2 candidates proposed, one for December and one for February, so Neil should have ample opportunity to prove himself and his officers in the forthcoming Masonic Year.   We look forward to the presentation of the Travelling Ark on 7th December by the Commander and Brethren of the Herbert Fuller Lodge of RAM, and in turn passing it on to the RW PGM at the Provincial RAM assembly on Saturday 30th January 2009. 

...The new Commander, Neil Hurcum (centre) with Alan Douglas SW.   Cliff Hannabuss, representing the PGM, Steve Williams the installing Commander and Clive Mathews JW. 
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Visit to Great Queen Street 8th June 2010</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-06-08T21:40:40+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/45c3cb7786e0682116d56d8571c72608-78.html#unique-entry-id-78</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/45c3cb7786e0682116d56d8571c72608-78.html#unique-entry-id-78</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Every year since he was a lad, John Lendon has organised a coach trip to the Annual Investiture meeting at Mark Grand Lodge.   The coach starts its journey from Minehead, then on to London via Taunton, Bridgwater, Gordano, then on to Sally Pussy's for breakfast.   This year the coach broke down when it had just passed the Hammersmith flyover forcing brethren to use their own initiative to get to the meeting. ...  They had to watch the proceedings from afar and were excluded from the all important vote regarding the increase in dues to Grand Mark Lodge. ...  The return journey in the repaired coach went without a hitch, via Sally Pussy's of course for an excellent carvery dinner. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Herbert Fuller June meeting</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-06-07T20:02:57+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fc94c8e0eca3ad0832862c9a5f8ae7df-76.html#unique-entry-id-76</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fc94c8e0eca3ad0832862c9a5f8ae7df-76.html#unique-entry-id-76</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the June meeting of Herbert Fuller Royal Ark Mariner Lodge two new members were welcome, joining member Bro Ben Batley and the candidate on the evening Paul Rowsell.   It was a very pleasant meeting enjoyed by all who attended.   Photo shows, Ben Batley, Mike Nathan J, Kevin Kelly WCN, Roly Bisgrove S and candidate Paul Rowsell.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Isle of Wedmore Lodge first regular meeting</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-06-09T19:32:41+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/58b3d9700cc91acd14a6b388dc705c3f-75.html#unique-entry-id-75</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/58b3d9700cc91acd14a6b388dc705c3f-75.html#unique-entry-id-75</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Worshipful Master and his team held a very successful first meeting of the Isle of Wedmore Lodge on the 9th June, the day after the Investiture meeting of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons.   The team performed a very good ceremony that was enjoyed by all, especially the candidate Ron Mallony, may it be the first of many successful meetings!


New Mark Master Mason Brother Ron Mallony flanked by Deputy PGM Ray Guthrie and Worshipful Master John Peters, pictured with the two new active Grand Officers of the Province, Ray Johnson-Smith ADC and Gerald Chilcott, Grand Steward.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark Golf Day 2010</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-07-12T18:38:21+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/517606830c1ad6a5b09a6f56447c1a49-74.html#unique-entry-id-74</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/517606830c1ad6a5b09a6f56447c1a49-74.html#unique-entry-id-74</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[48  golfers assembled at Taunton and Pickeridge GC to compete for the Provincial Grand Masters Shield.   The weather was good and the course in excellent condition for the individual competition, a full handicap stableford, together with a bowmaker format team competition. ...  It was another excellent Mark day, the golf was followed by dinner in the clubhouse with the usual banter and exchange of hard luck stories.   Thanks to Richard Stone and Eric Kellet for their help, although illness prevented Eric attending and to Taunton and Pickeridge GC for all their help. 

...Second place in the team contest went to Jan Nichols, Gordon MacFarlane, Andy Leitch and John Allan.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark Bowlers Victorious</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-07-19T15:28:06+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/29790a40f5a7520cf09e3c4a1e86cfa3-73.html#unique-entry-id-73</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/29790a40f5a7520cf09e3c4a1e86cfa3-73.html#unique-entry-id-73</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It was a lovely summer day, ideal for a game of bowls and teams from the Craft captained by David Jenkins and the Mark captained by Ray Guthrie were keen to let battle commence, in a friendly Masonic way of course!   For most of the morning it was a close run thing but after 18 ends the Mark were leading by 10 and declared the winners of the Cup. ...  So in addition to thanking all the members of both teams for turning up on the day from all corners of the Province, I would also thank, Norman Warry for organising the day on behalf of the Craft, Mike Adams and the members of Shepton Mallet bowls club for the use of their facilities and of course the ladies who prepared our lunch. 

...The Mark team, back row - Vernon Harding, Tony Everett,  Norman Ackland, Tony Drew, Ron Troop, David Searle, Frank Silver and Barrie Baker.   Front row - Lionel Curtis, John Howlett, Leigh Ackland, David Veale, Ray Guthrie, Trevor Burgess, Mike Skyrme and Mike Scaggs.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>348 Celebrates 125 years</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-28T20:07:08+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7128b67cfab37ff158c493daaa7ca970-72.html#unique-entry-id-72</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7128b67cfab37ff158c493daaa7ca970-72.html#unique-entry-id-72</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Tuesday 25th May 2010, nearly 80 Mark Master Mason join together to help celebrate 125 years of continuous working by the Lodge of Fidelity and Unanimity.


The highlight of the evening was a performance by the Somerset Ancient Mark Masons of an old Mark Ceremony.   In the centre of the photo is Master of 348, Harry Price, to his left is the Worshipful Sir of the SAMMs team Derek Wilton. 

...All monies raised in this way by the SAMMs team are distributed to charitable causes.


This photo shows the DPGM Ray Guthrie with The Master, Harry Price together with four members of the Lodge who were present at the centenary celebration in 1985. l to r, Les Johnson, Tony Hick (on this occasion a member of the SAMMs team) DPGM, Master, David Hartley and Terry Wood.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>348 Installation 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-10-27T19:45:02+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f562345a58b91bb5bc736f6fdc1ad367-71.html#unique-entry-id-71</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f562345a58b91bb5bc736f6fdc1ad367-71.html#unique-entry-id-71</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was a very good evening at the Installation meeting of 348.   Over forty brethren enjoyed seeing Harry Installed by W.Bro Sidney French, visitors outnumbered members with a contingent of seven brethren from Else Lodge.   The Lodge has no candidates at the moment but the new Master is hopeful that at least one can be found during his year. ...  Brethren wishing to visit the Lodge will be made most welcome.    The photo shows (l to r) SW Terry Leach, the new Master Harry Price, DPGM Ray Guthrie and JW Rod Green.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Science Lodge Installation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-23T23:13:15+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/636c6a29f5097e7e7e6abe99e89dd3fb-69.html#unique-entry-id-69</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/636c6a29f5097e7e7e6abe99e89dd3fb-69.html#unique-entry-id-69</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[WB Steve McCarthy installed Brother Max Foote as Worshipful Master of the Science Lodge MMM No.128 in at Wincanton on 19th November.   Unfortunately illness prevented many Brethren from attending but it was a super meeting with  contingent from the Province of Wiltshire who had travelled down to support the Lodge on this important occasion.   The Provincial Grand Master was presented with a cheque for &pound;500 for the Hearing Dogs for the Deaf and St John Ambulance project with further donations made to the outgoing Masters chosen charities of Cancer Research and the Somerset Air Ambulance.   A wonderful festive board followed the meeting where the visitors were entertained in fine style by the Brethren of Science Lodge.


The photo shows l to r, Mike Waterman - SW, David Nelson - PGM, Max Foote the new Master, Richard Old - JW and Chris White who is the Lodge DC and Almoner extraordinaire!]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Carnarvon Lodge No 616 Centenary</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-02-23T21:45:31+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a9793e340546751f6865a015efd0ed51-68.html#unique-entry-id-68</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a9793e340546751f6865a015efd0ed51-68.html#unique-entry-id-68</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[David Nelson attended the Installation Meeting of the Carnarvon Lodge of Mark Master Masons,No.616 in Mark Masons Hall, London on Saturday 13th February, when his Excellency Dr. 

...History gave a fascinating insight into the early years of the Lodge and that of Mark Masonry in the City of London before the Second World War; membership costs then bore little resemblance to those of today!  


...The Centenary Meeting was reconvened at 3pm and we were eventually asked to close the doors behind us at 11.30 pm after a superb dinner and excellent speeches!


David Nelson, Dr Carl Roberts - Master of 616, Gerry Ifill Lodge DC (& member of Royal Cumberland Lodge TI) and Derek Hugh - District Grand Master S&E Caribbean.


Right Worshipful Brethren present at the centenary meeting of 616, Bert PGJW, Richard Slade - PGM Oxfordshire, Russel Race JGW, Ben Addy - Assistant Grand Master, Peter Halls-Dickerson - PGM Middlesex, Roger Croucher - PGM Kent, Kieth Emmerson - PPGM Hertfordshire, Roland Wade - PPGM Kent and David Nelson.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Advancee for TI</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-10T17:32:07+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d1a51e51c9b79701e5e3e96d716874f8-67.html#unique-entry-id-67</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d1a51e51c9b79701e5e3e96d716874f8-67.html#unique-entry-id-67</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the regular meeting of the Lodge on 11th November 2009 Lionel Curtis was Advanced by the Master Richard Chivers and his team.   The Photo shows l to r - Ron Babbage DC, Peter Martin SW, Master Richard Chivers, Lionel Curtis and Cyril Sahoy JW.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Mark Lodge for Golfer&#x27;s proposed</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-22T07:43:56+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/882ef504e22e7869298671b01cd235c7-66.html#unique-entry-id-66</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/882ef504e22e7869298671b01cd235c7-66.html#unique-entry-id-66</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Meeting three times a year, with two of the meetings being held in various Masonic Halls in the Province.   Similar in many ways to the way that Somerset Fairway Lodge operates in the Craft.   It is hoped to convene a meeting during June of those twenty brethren who have expressed an interest in becoming founders.   If you would like to register your interest in becoming a founder, or candidate or joining member please email the organising secretary, Tony Guthrie - <span style="color:#0000FF;"><u><a href="mailto:tonyguthrie@btconnect.com">tonyguthrie@btconnect.com</a></u></span>


A meeting for prospective founders will be held at 7.00 pm on Wednesday the 30th June at 6.30pm at the Masonic Hall, Redfield Road, Midsomer Norton BA3 2JN. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Grand Lodge Dues</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-22T07:29:04+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1f27d02e848fea011d71245120fdbecd-65.html#unique-entry-id-65</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1f27d02e848fea011d71245120fdbecd-65.html#unique-entry-id-65</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Below is the agenda for the meeting of Grand Lodge on Wednesday 8th June.   Item 7 relates to the proposed increase in subscriptions plus a levy next year.  
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Isle of Wedmore Consecration</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-16T16:10:13+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0b9c0d16f0367f9b04d15a4fb7e26735-64.html#unique-entry-id-64</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0b9c0d16f0367f9b04d15a4fb7e26735-64.html#unique-entry-id-64</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Lodge Room was filled to capacity and rose to the triumphant organ playing of Barry Renwick, the Provincial Grand Organist to admit the Sword and Standard Bearers, followed by R.W.Bro. ...  Corn was scattered, wine was poured, oil was sprinkled and salt was strewed on each of the 29 Petitioners present; the Isle of Wedmore Mark Lodge, No. 1912 was Dedicated, Consecrated and concluded with the Patriarchal Benediction proclaimed by the Chaplain. 

...Master John then invested each Lodge Officer with a personal thank you, the Lodge By-Laws were approved and the business of the first Lodge Meeting was concluded. 

...Provincial Officers - Roger Hutchings Assistant DC, Neil Hawes Junior Warden, Vernon Harding Chaplain, Tony Wilcox Senior Warden, Ray Johnstone-Smith Director of Ceremonies, John Morgan Secretary, Barrie Baker Sword Bearer, David Nelson PGM, Val Cooke Standard Bearer, Ron Babbage Tyler and David Lampard Inner Guard. 

...Senior Warden - Peter Layzell, David Nelson PGM, Master - John Peters,  Junior Warden -  Barry Burridge and the DPGM Ray Guthrie. (photo Pat Morrisey)
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>PGM&#x27;s Address to Provincial Grand Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-08T15:11:46+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/609f8c61333a3e7b94b2964fc6ef6185-63.html#unique-entry-id-63</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/609f8c61333a3e7b94b2964fc6ef6185-63.html#unique-entry-id-63</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Brethren it is a great pleasure for me to rise and address you at this 2010 Annual Provincial Grand Lodge meeting and I do take this opportunity to thank all of our guests and visitors from the other Provinces for the support they have given to our Province this afternoon. 

...Whilst I appreciate that we now have a superb web-site that keeps us all up to date with the news from all Lodges around the Province due entirely to the hard work by our Deputy Provincial Grand Master VWB Ray Guthrie and I take this opportunity to thank him on behalf of all the Brethren for providing this wonderful facility.   Additionally our Triangle Magazine also provides a wonderful channel for communicating with Brethren who may not be able to visit around the Province, or who are not able to attend their individual Lodges due to infirmity, and I would like to thank WB Pat Morrissey who is the Editor of the magazine for the time and hard work he devotes to ensuring the content and photographs are of the highest quality. 

...Additionally we paid a fraternal visit to 2 Royal Ark Mariners Lodges where at Fidelity & Unanimity Lodge in October 2009 our new Royal Ark Mariners Provincial Banner was dedicated to the service of the Province of Somerset and it was a great pleasure for me to ask WB Terry Woods who is the Scribe for 348 to present and escort the Banner on that occasion. 

...The Provincial Officers of the year will carry out 2 Advancement ceremonies at Royal Sussex in September and Nailsea Mark Lodge in January 2011, these team visits have become very popular and I over heard one younger Mark Mason this year exclaim &ldquo;isn&rsquo;t it nice to see the old Past Masters taken down from the top shelf dusted down and allowed to do a ceremony, and it wasn&rsquo;t too bad either&rdquo;. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Officers appointed on 2nd May 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-05-02T18:46:41+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9cd8efe14e0f42baeb5287e53071f133-62.html#unique-entry-id-62</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9cd8efe14e0f42baeb5287e53071f133-62.html#unique-entry-id-62</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[(null)]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Ladies hear all about the PGM&#x27;s Appeal  </title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-01T11:36:22+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/4ed712836fbb58b5af2a37024118a8c7-61.html#unique-entry-id-61</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/4ed712836fbb58b5af2a37024118a8c7-61.html#unique-entry-id-61</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the Provincial meeting in held at the Webbington Hotel on Saturday 1 May, the wives and partners of brethren were treated to an explanation of the Provincial Grand Master's appeal for the charity "Hearing Dogs for Deaf People". ...  Over 80 Ladies were present to hear about the charity and to see just how much a dog like Pasha could change the life of it's new owner.   The Charity had received &pound;10,000 from the brethren of Somerset at a presentation held on the 16th April.   Also present at the Webbington on Saturday were representatives of St John Ambulance, this charity is also set to benefit from the generosity of Somerset Mark Masons in the near future.


...This Ambulance is the PGM&rsquo;s second chosen charity and &pound;10,000 has been pledged to purchase an ECG Monitor to turn the Crusader Ambulance into a fully equipped Paramedic unit.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>2010 Provincial Meeting</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-01T10:28:44+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/4e1107d199718e16c3c70e0289ee3ca3-60.html#unique-entry-id-60</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/4e1107d199718e16c3c70e0289ee3ca3-60.html#unique-entry-id-60</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Again on command, all rose to greet and applaud the Provincial Grand Master for Somerset, The Right Worshipful Brother David Brian Nelson accompanied by his Deputy, The Very Worshipful Brother Raymond Guthrie and the Provincial Team.


...The highlight of the meeting arrived with the appointment of the incoming Senior and Junior Wardens, the new Provincial Team, the re-appointment of Executive Officers, and the first time Appointment and Promotion of brethren; each greeted and invested individually by RW.Brother David Nelson.  

...The Provincial Grand Master then presented a cheque to R.W.Bro George Bonham, PGM of the Mark Province of Leicester and Rutland as a contribution from the Brethren of Somerset to the 2010 Mark Benevolent Fund Festival.


V.W.Bro Geoff Nash, secretary of the Somerset Ancient Mark Masters Demonstration Team then presented a cheque to the Provincial Grand Master as a contribution from the team to his appeal. 

...Many ladies had accompanied the brethren to the meeting and were separately entertained by a talk from &ldquo;Dogs for Deaf People&rdquo;, one of the two charities the PGM had chosen for this Masonic year; a cheque for &pound;10,000 had been presented to this charity at an earlier date.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Provincial Wardens</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-05-01T21:56:33+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5b0e9679fdaaab4a77762fc6c1c28565-59.html#unique-entry-id-59</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5b0e9679fdaaab4a77762fc6c1c28565-59.html#unique-entry-id-59</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master, David Nelson, appointed his new wardens at the annual meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge at the Webbington hotel on Saturday, 1st May 2010.   Tony Willcox, who is secretary of both the Science Lodge of Mark Master Masons and of the Portal Lodge of Mark Master Masons was appointed as Provincial Senior Grand Warden.   While Neil Hawes, who is the Master of the Royal Sussex Lodge of Mark Master Masons was appointed as Provincial Junior Grand Warden.   Both brethren are also past commanders in the Royal Ark Mariner degree.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Hearing Dogs Presentation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-04-16T19:34:21+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/73951b21e59e12cb25e6156558406265-58.html#unique-entry-id-58</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/73951b21e59e12cb25e6156558406265-58.html#unique-entry-id-58</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[On Friday 16th April, 2010 many Mark Masons from Somerset met at the Webbington Hotel to join Provincial Grand Master David Nelson when he formally presented a cheque for &pound;10,000 to Mrs Marilyn Sydenham from the charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. ...  Marilyn presented a photograph of the first dog to be financed by this donation, Flynn, a Bichon Frise, who will go to a lady in Yeovil area, when he has completed his training.


...The Hearing dogs also accompany their owners on shopping trips where they can warn of fire alarms in shops, traffic crossing signals, oncoming traffic and other everyday hazards.   The money raised by the Mark Masons of Somerset had already been forwarded to Mrs Sydenham as a matter of urgency to prevent any hold-up in their dedicated work. 

...The Hearing Dogs for the Deaf is a little known but remarkable charity, which has caught the imagination, hearts and minds of us all here in Somerset. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Somerset Commanders Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-08-20T14:03:23+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6bd6120140f46786280dd1c7f6d24af5-57.html#unique-entry-id-57</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6bd6120140f46786280dd1c7f6d24af5-57.html#unique-entry-id-57</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It has become a tradition of the Somerset Commanders Lodge No 1656 to have an annual day out. ...  This years commander, John Lendon decided that the trip would have a nautical flavour and so chose a morning cruise along the Tiverton Canal. 


Twenty four Lodge members and partners boarded the horse drawn barge, the Tivertonian, at Tiverton Wharf and were taken out into the Devon countryside.   The barge travels for 1 hour to East Manley, where it turns around and moors up allowing  the opportunity to take a short walk to see the one and only Aqueduct on the Grand Western Canal, or we could stay and talk to the horse as he rests awhile under the shade of a tree.   During the journey we heard some tales and history of the canal, and enjoyed a minutes silence thus experiencing the true peace and tranquility of traveling by Horse-Drawn Barge.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark Golfers Victorious</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-08-20T13:41:02+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d1d8a4105d16ebcfd89d082ce410c318-56.html#unique-entry-id-56</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d1d8a4105d16ebcfd89d082ce410c318-56.html#unique-entry-id-56</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[He is envisaged four orders, the Craft the Holy Royal Arch, Knights Templar of which he is the is the Sub Prior for the Province of Somerset and the Mark degree, competing in a friendly Masonic way of course, for a trophy.   Captains were appointed, Peter Layzell for the craft, Barry Woodside for the Holy Royal Arch and Ray Guthrie for the Mark degree with of course Robin captaining the Knights Templar team.   Rules of engagement were also established and it was decided that a team of six from each order would contest the provincial golf challenge. 

...This was followed by an excellent three course meal in the clubhouse where all the players were thanked  for their support by Robin and trophies presented to each member of the winning Mark golf team by the Right Eminent Provincial Prior for Somerset, Barry Burridge.


It is hoped that this will become an annual event in the Masonic calendar, next years event is planned for Tuesday 17th August at Bath Golf Club (Sham Castle).
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Royal Ark Mariner Banner Dedication </title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-10-10T13:38:14+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/155793e46dff28a9982a21e0d4132e41-55.html#unique-entry-id-55</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/155793e46dff28a9982a21e0d4132e41-55.html#unique-entry-id-55</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[On 9th October Fidelity & Unanimity Lodge of RAMs No. 348 was honoured with the presence of the Provincial Grand Master and Provincial Officers of the year for the purpose of dedicating the Provincial RAM banner.

...The sceptre of the Lodge was then proffered to the Provincial Grand Master who accepted it and took the chair for the purpose of dedicating the banner.    In his introductory remarks the PGM said that this was the first Provincial RAM banner for the Province and only one of a few in the constitution.  

...It was a wonderful evening at Fidelity and Unanimity Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No.348 on Friday 9th October where the Worshipful Commander elevated his Son in Law Brother Matthew Clothier.


After the  elevation ceremony the Provincial Officers of the year then assisted me in dedicating the new Provincial Royal Ark Mariners Banner. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>RAM Assembly 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-04-06T13:16:34+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2a1963bb510e5365a8cc11a73474a3b1-54.html#unique-entry-id-54</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/2a1963bb510e5365a8cc11a73474a3b1-54.html#unique-entry-id-54</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The PGM next addressed the Assembly, extracts of his address follow: &ldquo;Brother Royal Ark Mariners may I again welcome the many visitors and guests from the adjacent Provinces especially the Provincial Grand Masters who have supported me today, together with all Royal Ark Mariners who have taken the time to join us this morning.   Our new Provincial Royal Ark Mariner Banner paraded into this Assembly today, was recently completed by a Brother who wishes to remain anonymous but as he is here today may I thank him on my own and the Province&rsquo;s behalf for his workmanship in making the pole and mounting the banner. 

...Today I have had the privilege to invest Brethren with Provincial Royal Ark Mariner Grand Rank, an honour I confer on Past Commanders in Somerset who make a regular contribution to their Lodge; I do congratulate them all. 

...The &ldquo;Travelling Ark&rdquo; sails its way from Lodge to Lodge promoting fellowship and goodwill and I know that it is the foundation for creating many friendships between the Brethren of our Lodges and I would thank our Deputy Provincial Grand Master Raymond Guthrie for organising and making all the arrangements for the schedule of visits.  

One of my greatest pleasures throughout the year is to visit my Royal Ark Mariners Lodges either at their Installation or at a Regular business meeting and I always look forward to these official visits, you all make me very welcome and my journey worthwhile especially when I can renew old friendships, and greet new Brethren as I have done this morning. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Ladies do their own Thing</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-05-03T13:14:22+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6e5d229e07d36b7ad0374deecc2e3fbd-53.html#unique-entry-id-53</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6e5d229e07d36b7ad0374deecc2e3fbd-53.html#unique-entry-id-53</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Cath Nelson, Diane Atkins and Hazel Guthrie welcome 80 Ladies to the Provincial meeting on 2nd May 2009.


...After lunchtime drinks in the bar or on the terrace the gentlemen retired for their Provincial Meeting, and the ladies, hosted by Catherine Nelson, took their places in the dining room where cups of tea and coffee were being served. ...  She told us how she came to be a JP and what the training and duties of this unpaid voluntary work consist of. ...  Finally we were told that the real offender had been given three months in custody, and it emerged that he had committed other similar offences. ...  It wasn&rsquo;t long before our gentlemen re-appeared and after pre-dinner drinks we all went in to a splendid meal. 
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>PGM kick starts the Travelling Keystone</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-05-11T13:10:04+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/c09fd4343a28661ed8dea2c3c668e017-52.html#unique-entry-id-52</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/c09fd4343a28661ed8dea2c3c668e017-52.html#unique-entry-id-52</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Worshipful Master Colin Basson receives the Traveling Keystone from Provincial Grand Master David Nelson at a regular meeting of the Lodge on Monday 11th May.   The PGM was accompanied by fifteen members of his Provincial team, there were a total of 55 members and visitors to witness the Master and his team perform an excellent ceremony of advancement.   The candidate Nick Taplin was suitably impressed, everyone enjoyed both the meeting and a first class meal afterwards.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Meeting 2009 </title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-05-03T13:06:17+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/337ecc2cb4b6b3045a418f64ed4d9680-51.html#unique-entry-id-51</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/337ecc2cb4b6b3045a418f64ed4d9680-51.html#unique-entry-id-51</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Annual Meeting of Mark Masonry in Somerset was held under the Banner of the Nailsea Lodge No.1548 and it was to a capacity gathering that the Banner was proudly paraded in, accompanied by the Master and Lodge members. ...  The PGM greeted the assembly, the opening Hymn was sung and Provincial Grand Lodge was opened in due form A further report at the door heralded the entry of the Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Nicholas Murzell, who requested all to stand to receive The Assistant Grand Master, The R. ...  The Travelling Keystone, that has been roving around the Province over the last 20 years, bringing Somerset Lodges together and making countless friends during its passage, was presented to the PGM by the Master and Brethren of the Cerdic Lodge No. 571 who had travelled from Chard to present it. 

...The Provincial Grand Master&rsquo;s Project Fund for the forthcoming year will benefit two Somerset Charities, the Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and the City of Wells Ambulance.   It may well be remembered that in the year 2000 on a particularly sunny afternoon in Wells and following Evensong at the Cathedral, the Mark Master Masons of Somerset, headed by the then Provincial Grand Master Tony Hick, presented a new Crusader Ambulance to St. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Mark Lodge at Wedmore</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-08-14T12:49:43+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/be68efa3688ecef38e66bc0594a69ef5-50.html#unique-entry-id-50</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/be68efa3688ecef38e66bc0594a69ef5-50.html#unique-entry-id-50</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Eleven potential founders held a meeting at Wedmore Masonic Hall on Thursday, 13th August to discuss the idea of forming new daylight Mark Lodge. 

...There was an initial discussion as to the concept of a daylight Mark Lodge, the examples of Sir Isaac Newton Lodge (Craft) and Milliennum Chapter (Rose Croix) being quoted as being very successful daylight Lodges.   Having agreed there was a need there was some discussion as to the name of the proposed new Lodge and the Isle of Wedmore Lodge of Mark Master Masons was generally thought to be very suitable.  


Potential founding officers were then discussed and the meeting agreed that John Peters would be the founding Master, Peter Layzell the founding Senior Warden and Barry Burridge the founding Junior Warden, Kevin Rees Jones the founding Secretary and Mike Waterman the founding Treasurer.


It was also decided that the Lodge will meet three times a year, on the second Wednesday of May, June and September at 11am, May being the Installation meeting.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Grand Officers for 2010</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-03-19T12:37:00+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a38e41196d1de1544e30a20d40c533bb-49.html#unique-entry-id-49</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a38e41196d1de1544e30a20d40c533bb-49.html#unique-entry-id-49</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Most Worshipful Pro Grand Master, invested the following Brethren of this Province with Grand Rank at the Annual Investiture Meeting of Mark Grand Lodge at Freemasons Hall, Great Queen Street London on Tuesday 8th June 2010. 


...Johnstone-Smith to  Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies.


...Elmont to  Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies.


...J.N.Peters to  Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies.


...left to right, John Nicholson, Stuart Hadler, Gerry Chilcott, Ray Johnstone-Smith and Peter Elmont.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark Golf Day 2009</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-07-21T10:55:14+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fdedea5b1ffd9d95abf7881632ecbd63-48.html#unique-entry-id-48</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fdedea5b1ffd9d95abf7881632ecbd63-48.html#unique-entry-id-48</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The fourth annual Mark Golf Day was held at Farrington Golf Club on Thursday 16th July.   40 Players from all over the Province and from our neighbouring Provinces of Bristol and Wiltshire, contested the individual stableford event. 

...We all enjoyed a meal in the club house after the game, this was followed by the presentation of prizes by Richard Stone one of the organisers of the event. 

...Last years defending champion John Allen was just pipped into second place this year by Tony Guthrie.

...3rd place with 108 Points Willy Brown, Dean Bradwell, John A&rsquo;court & Roger Hutchings
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark Ball 2010</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-04-04T11:10:37+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5418fd729365860d54e90f089b774f6f-47.html#unique-entry-id-47</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5418fd729365860d54e90f089b774f6f-47.html#unique-entry-id-47</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The event we had looked forward to since last year arrived with perfect timing on Saturday 27th March; thanks mainly to the hard work and planning of Dorothy and Tony Snook our Festival organisers; the ever popular Mark weekend at the Redcliffe Hotel, Paignton had begun.   The weather was kind and for those of us lucky enough to arrive on the Friday, most moving into the same rooms we occupied last year and being surrounded by the same happy smiling faces it seemed we had never really left.

A swim in the heated pool, a lounge in the Jacuzzi and a poaching in the terrifying heat of the steam room, set you in the right mood for a wonderful dinner Friday evening, Roast Duckling with all the trimmings, cr&egrave;me brul&egrave;e, bread-and-butter pudding, you name it, it was there. 

...Come Saturday with new guests arriving, many brethren and their ladies set out to explore the area, returning in good time to change and be greeted by our Provincial Grand Master David Nelson accompanied by his lady Catherine and Deputy Provincial Grand Master Raymond Guthrie with his lady Hazel. ...  The toasts to The Queen and the Grand Master, Prince Michael of Kent was given by the PGM, followed by that to our ever popular PGM given by W. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>SAMMS donations</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-03-21T22:27:00+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/88c916cae0c2769c7295aba36c5b14f6-46.html#unique-entry-id-46</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/88c916cae0c2769c7295aba36c5b14f6-46.html#unique-entry-id-46</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the AGM of the Somerset Ancient Mark Masters today chaired by the secretary V.W.Bro Geoff Nash, the following charitable donations were approved.


&pound;500 to the Provincial Grand Masters Appeal for Hearing Dogs for the Deaf and St John Ambulance.


...&pound;250 to Portage a registered charity providing home support for pre school children with special needs.


These are in addition to a donation of &pound;250 previously agreed to Macmillan Cancer Care in memory of W.Bro Mervyn "Tubby" Godfrey.


The AGM, held at Nailsea Masonic Centre was followed by a very pleasant lunch that was enjoyed by over 60 members of SAMMs together with their wives, partners and friends.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark Officer&#x27;s Dinner</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-02-07T21:24:03+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ee7c10d037862409fb2b67b1a32d7ead-45.html#unique-entry-id-45</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/ee7c10d037862409fb2b67b1a32d7ead-45.html#unique-entry-id-45</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[A dinner for Provincial Officers and the Ladies was held at the Farthing hotel at Hatch Beauchamps on Saturday 6th Feb.   We enjoyed a very nice meal in pleasant surroundings, our thanks to the Provincial Junior Warden, Ian Walker for organising this annual event.


See the photos]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>2009 Grand Lodge Appointments</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-08-21T21:00:51+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f2cd98e73c919bdaa89782f638624c5a-44.html#unique-entry-id-44</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f2cd98e73c919bdaa89782f638624c5a-44.html#unique-entry-id-44</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Most Worshipful Pro Grand Master, John Hale invested the following Brethren of this Province with Grand Rank at the Annual Investiture Meeting of Mark Grand Lodge at Freemasons Hall, Great Queen Street London on Tuesday 9th June 2009. 


...R Ewins, PAGDC to  Past Grand Senior Deacon.


...Roworth, PAGDC  to  Past Grand Senior Deacon.


...Stacey to  Past Assistant Grand Standard Bearer.


...Waterman to  Past Assistant Grand Standard Bearer.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>77 years of visiting&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-03-02T10:08:12+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a3900e0e3fe18aa5a9bdceb509e96898-43.html#unique-entry-id-43</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a3900e0e3fe18aa5a9bdceb509e96898-43.html#unique-entry-id-43</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[In the minutes of the 56th, meeting of Hallam Lodge, No. 730 on 22nd November 1933 there is mentioned receipt of a letter from the Secretary of the Else Lodge No. 102, inviting the W.   Master, Officers and Brethren of the Hallam Lodge to a Visit at Weston-super-Mare on the 13th February 1934. 

...Renton, seconded that &ldquo;We invite the Master, Officers and Brethren of Else Lodge, in return, be invited to visit us at our meeting in February next&rdquo;.

...C.Midgley, A.E.M.Lawrence, A.H.Ward and P.E.Russell together with Bros., Hale, Hill, Jones, Payne, Parker, Wayte and Banbury, all of Else Lodge was in attendance.

...Else and Hallam still meet each other fraternally each year and many members of Else are also members of Thackeray Royal Ark Mariners Lodge which is moored to Hallam!
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Banner for Portal</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-10-29T22:13:19+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/abf660774082148bc410345258a04838-42.html#unique-entry-id-42</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/abf660774082148bc410345258a04838-42.html#unique-entry-id-42</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[SW Alan Thompson, Master Alex Carter and JW Clive Lambert proudly display the new Lodge Banner at the October meeting of the Lodge.   There was no candidate at the meeting, W.Bro Richard Baber gave an excellent rendition of the Lecture on the Tracing Board and W.Bro Jim Arthur, Master of Somerdale Lodge accompanied by some of his brethren presented the Travelling Keystone.   Over forty members and visitors enjoyed a splendid evening.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Hallam Lecture</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-02-24T19:48:55+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e9db558c2ca54e7d4b624e503f4fbfb3-41.html#unique-entry-id-41</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e9db558c2ca54e7d4b624e503f4fbfb3-41.html#unique-entry-id-41</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The usual convivial atmosphere pervaded at Hallam Lodge the regular meeting on 24th February, with the Deputy PGM in attendance as well as the annual contingent visiting from Foster Mark Lodge , Wotton under Edge, Bro Tim Reynolds was ably advanced by W.Bro Andy Gray and his team of officers . 


The highlight of the ceremony was a superb rendition of the Lecture on the Degree of a Mark Master Mason given in catechetical form for the first time in Hallam Lodge. 


Three of our newest brethren , Bros Dave Marriott , Andy Wade and Alan Trask along with the young at heart W.Bro Derek Wilton , gave an outstanding lecture which was met with much praise throughout the evening , impressing members and visitors alike. 


With Bro Barrie Webster elected as Master for the ensuing year , Hallam Lodge looks forward to another happy and healthy new season.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Monument donation to the appeal</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-01-21T14:12:06+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6c5146bb0064397b980380eb6cdbfe25-40.html#unique-entry-id-40</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6c5146bb0064397b980380eb6cdbfe25-40.html#unique-entry-id-40</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master made an official visit to the Monument Lodge MMM No.1295 at Wellington on 20th January 2010.   The Worshipful Master Brother Richard Gale delivered a wonderful ceremony of Advancement and welcomed Brother Sully-Dunbar into the Lodge as witnessed by a number of visitors who all enjoyed the Mark fellowship engendered throughout the evening. 


WB Ron Troup presented RWB David Nelson with a cheque for &pound;1000 for his charity fund which considerable enhances the magnificent contributions that the Mark Brethren have donated since the launch of the fund in 2009.


Link to appeal page
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>PGM joins Dungarvan Chapter</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-28T15:57:25+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/35e6f5692cb16fabc201eeab64698c62-39.html#unique-entry-id-39</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/35e6f5692cb16fabc201eeab64698c62-39.html#unique-entry-id-39</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master of Mark Master Masons of Somerset, David Nelson became a subscribing member of a Somerset Holy Royal Arch Chapter when he joined the Dungarvan Chapter No 973 at Frome in September this year.   However as the September meeting of the Chapter is the same date as the Installation of William de Irwin Mark Lodge in Yeovil, our PGM was unable to be present to witness his election.   The M.E.Z of Durgarvan, E.Comp Tony Guthrie was delighted to welcome David, as was the Chapter D.C., E.Comp Ray Guthrie at the meeting of the Chapter on 26th November. 


The Chapter was fortunate in being host that evening to the Most Excellent Grand Superintendent in and over the Province of Somerset, E.Comp John Bennett and a full team of Provincial Chapter Officers who carried out an excellent exaltation ceremony.   The photo shows E.Comp David being welcomed to the Chapter by the M.E.Z, the M.E. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Carnarvon Lodge Provincial Visit</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-02-16T09:41:56+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/bee6335e7c4c07d50cdb1d4a58438ac7-38.html#unique-entry-id-38</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/bee6335e7c4c07d50cdb1d4a58438ac7-38.html#unique-entry-id-38</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[15th February, the PGM and his full team were at Carnarvon Lodge this evening to perform what turned out to be an excellent ceremony. ...  The newly advanced brother, Keith Crease, a member of St Keyna Lodge at Keynsham and the PGM's barber! ...  Distinguished guests including the Provincial Grand Master for Oxfordshire, R.W.Bro Richard Slade.


The PGM announced at the festive board the formation of a new daylight Lodge at Wedmore to be consecrated on 12th May (see related article)


R.W.Bro Richard Slade, PGM for Oxfordshire, David Nelson and V.W.Bro Roy Bedford, past DPGM of London at the Carnarvon meeting.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mendip Lodge donation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-01-20T16:29:52+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/17103fbc45691dbd6f2e138503844819-37.html#unique-entry-id-37</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/17103fbc45691dbd6f2e138503844819-37.html#unique-entry-id-37</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Provincial Grand Master was invited to take the chair at his official visit to the Mendip Lodge MMM No.781 at Glastonbury on 19th January 2010.   The Worshipful Master Brother John Harris presented RWB David Nelson with a cheque for &pound;500 for his charity fund at the completion of the ceremony hoping it was sufficient wages for his work for the evening.   Brother Steven Davey the Candidate for the evening admitted that he had most honoured to have been advanced by the Provincial Grand Master and would remember the ceremony and the evening with great affection.

...It was a superb evening and the Provincial Grand Master was heard to comment that he was amazed at the large number of visitors from other Lodges in Somerset and Brethren from other Provinces; he had been particularly pleased at the wonderful fellowship that he had experienced throughout the meeting. 


Master of Mendip Mark Lodge JohnHarris (looking very serious) Steven Davey and David Nelson the PGM.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New PGM for Gloucester and Herefordshire</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-02-15T15:28:43+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7c309493b4d8362d46270f93c202d292-36.html#unique-entry-id-36</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7c309493b4d8362d46270f93c202d292-36.html#unique-entry-id-36</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Most Worshipful Grand Master has appointed W.Bro James Albert Green PAGDC as the new Provincial Grand Master of Gloucestershire and Herefordshire in succession to R.W.Bro John Ernest Eley.   His Deputy Provincial Grand Master will be W.Bro Robert Richard Guy Clarke PGSD.   The Installation of W.Bro Green&nbsp;will take place during the first week of June. 


From 1st February 2010 W.Bro Frederick John Gillo PGSD will be the Deputy Provincial Grand Master in Charge the Province.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>RAM Assembly at Nailsea</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-01-30T13:06:42+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f6e77bc148e1f9916a675497c705ca1b-35.html#unique-entry-id-35</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f6e77bc148e1f9916a675497c705ca1b-35.html#unique-entry-id-35</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Brother Royal Ark Mariners this is the sixth Provincial Grand Assembly of Royal Ark Mariners to be held in Somerset and may I again welcome the many visitors and guest from the adjacent Provinces especially the Provincial Grand Masters who have supported me today, together with all Royal Ark Mariners who have taken the time to join us in this Provincial Grand Assembly.


...I am sure that you will all appreciate that the linkage to the Mark Degree is somewhat historical and that dedicated Royal Ark Mariners such as Bristol born Dr Ebenezer Sibley who renamed himself Noah Sibley could not create a functioning sovereign Grand Lodge and it was Cannon Portal Deputy Grand Master who accepted the responsibility of the Order and placed it under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons in 1871 with governance by the Grand Masters Royal Ark Council. 

...At the Grand Assembly held in the Grand Temple, Freemasons Hall, Great Queen Street in London on the 8th December 2009, the M.W Bother H.R.H Prince Michael Kent invested WB Keith Fisher of the William Long Lodge and WB Brian Jones of Thackeray Lodge as holders of Royal Ark Marine Grand Rank this is a singularly high honour that is conferred by the Grand Master and I am certain that you will join me in congratulating these two Brethren on their preferment, it was a super afternoon and an extremely good meeting.


...We therefore should all be very proud of our history and our achievements and I ask you all to be particularly proud of the standard of ritual that is delivered within the Lodges in our Province, these high standards do create a very special atmosphere which Brethren enjoy and this also makes for a happy Lodge, and in turn assist with recruitment of like-minded Brethren who may wish to join this very inspiring Degree. 

...I would also wish to thank within this Assembly our Deputy Provincial Grand Master for his hard work in setting up our Web-Site which has proved to be an invaluable tool in promoting the Degree, keeping Brethren informed of new around the Province and also providing a very efficient method of providing information and administration forms for the Lodge Scribes to access which is saving time and postage.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Isle of Wedmore Mark Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-02-15T12:33:02+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/938bb6db549f3fb130efc3bac7bb4e26-34.html#unique-entry-id-34</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/938bb6db549f3fb130efc3bac7bb4e26-34.html#unique-entry-id-34</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At Carnarvon Mark Lodge this evening (15th February) The Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro David Nelson was delighted to announce that he will be consecrating the Isle of Wedmore Mark Lodge No 1912 on Wednesday 12th May.   He had received from W.Bro John Peters and the founding secretary Bro Kevyn Jones, a petition containing the names of the thirty founders of the new Lodge.


The Lodge will be meeting during the day, three times a year May June and September.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Flood Relief</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-12-15T12:12:13+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0a65bfc854fbec0209be6769510408b0-33.html#unique-entry-id-33</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0a65bfc854fbec0209be6769510408b0-33.html#unique-entry-id-33</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Following the recent devastating floods in Cumbria the Provincial Grand Master has approved a donation of &pound;1000 from the Somerset Mark Benevolent Fund to help victims of the disaster.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Support for MS sufferers</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-01-15T16:41:36+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6fcd65a03b0b94bcae714244e4d100fb-31.html#unique-entry-id-31</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/6fcd65a03b0b94bcae714244e4d100fb-31.html#unique-entry-id-31</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Cliff Hannabuss and I visited and presented cheques for a total of &pound;500 to the MS Centre in Nailsea on the 21st December 2009.


We met the centre manager who is Ms Doro Pasantes and she gave us a tour of the facility. ...  The centre is only one of three in the South West and Wales and clients travel great distances to use the facilities, particularly the decompression/oxygen chamber.


We presented Doro with&nbsp;cheques for &pound;400 on behalf of the Nailsea Mark Lodge No 1548 and the Province, together with a cheque for &pound;100 from the Estune Rose Croix Chapter No 485. 

...This allows patients who are unable to stand unaided to stand upright in a comfortable position for a period of time, something that most of us take for granted as normal.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Double elevation at Nailsea RAM</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-01-15T12:32:02+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1f8927627a07df8c1fbf74b6e30e01cc-30.html#unique-entry-id-30</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1f8927627a07df8c1fbf74b6e30e01cc-30.html#unique-entry-id-30</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The snow wasn't enough to prevent 36 Royal Ark Mariners attending Nailsea Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners No 1548 on Wednesday 13th January to see the Commander, John Morgan elevate two new members.   David Palmer is a member of Nailsea Mark Lodge of MMM No 1548 and Barry Burridge the Immediate Past Master of the Goodwin Lodge of MMM No 1563 in the Province of Bristol.   Barry is better known to most of us as the Right Eminent Provincial Prior of Somerset in the order of Knights Templar. 


The Provincial Grand Master, David Nelson and his Provincial team were also at the meeting swelling the numbers attending to 38 despite the awful weather. 

...The elevation of David and Barry takes the Lodge membership to 50, making it the largest Royal Ark Mariner Lodge in the Province of Somerset.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Hallam Sunday Lunch</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2010-01-13T13:24:35+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f02264e384c7206a3a692ec60536e726-29.html#unique-entry-id-29</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/f02264e384c7206a3a692ec60536e726-29.html#unique-entry-id-29</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The awful weather that we have experienced lately stopped a few people from attending the Hallam lunch at Clevedon on the 10th of January but it didn't prevent over sixty members, their wives and friends  from enjoying an excellent lunch produced by Neil and Zena.   It was an opportunity for the Master Andy Gray to announce that the Lodge, together with other Lodges and orders meeting at Clevedon and Nailsea had raised &pound;1600 to donate to the Speech and Language Therapy Service in North Somerset, part of the Weston Area Health Trust.    Guests at the lunch were Gillian Oxley, Manager of the Speech and Language Therapy Service and Pat Cuthbert a Speech Therapist working with children in North Somerset. 

...At the committee meeting before I became the Worshipful Master of Hallam Lodge I was asked if there was a charity to which I wanted to donate any raffle money that might be collected during my year.  ...  I contacted Pat Cuthbert who's speciality is working with children who stammer, originally I thought we could raise in the region of &pound;200 to &pound;300 but I have been staggered by the generosity of our own brethren and brethren of other Lodges.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>The Travelling Ark sails into Thackeray Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-12-09T09:53:57+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/dbcb1f1a0fc23e1930dff72e8226ea6b-28.html#unique-entry-id-28</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/dbcb1f1a0fc23e1930dff72e8226ea6b-28.html#unique-entry-id-28</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Ark was delivered to Thackeray Lodge at the meeting on 7th December by the Commander of Herbert Fuller Royal Ark Mariner Lodge, Tony Wilcox.


left to right - The Scribe of Thackeray and stand in SW - Ian Strickland, Commander - Neil Hurcum, Provincial Grand Master, One of Thackeray's latest members Peter Shipp is Provincial Banner Bearer for the evening, Tony Wilcox - Commander 128 and a startled looking stand in Junior Warden - Pat Morrrisey.


...But Herbert Fuller Lodge came to the rescue  with no less than 13 members of the Lodge accompanying the Commander and  the Traveling Ark on the journey from Wincanton to Clevedon for the evening.   All present regarded it as an excellent example of the value of the Travelling Ark in terms of bringing Lodges together.   The raffle at the Festive Board raised &pound;261, which was given by the Commander of Thackeray to the Commander of Herbert Fuller for charitable use of their choosing. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Somerdale Lodge celebrates 25 years</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-12-04T15:35:10+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fb2bd6efa1aa0574901a6385522edb2b-27.html#unique-entry-id-27</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fb2bd6efa1aa0574901a6385522edb2b-27.html#unique-entry-id-27</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[In excess of 50 visitors including the complete Provincial Team attended the 25th Anniversary meeting of Somerdale Lodge at which the Provincial Grand Master, himself a founder of the Lodge, took the Chair to perform the  ceremony of advancement.

...As a founder member of the Lodge I was delighted to see so many friends old and new joining us to celebrate this milestone in the Lodge&rsquo;s history.

...Somerdale is the first (and only) Lodge of which I am a founder member and I still well remember the experience of Consecrating the Lodge  and being invested as one of the first officers. 

...The Provincial Grand Master produced a packet of photographs taken at the consecration showing some very young looking masons with plenty of dark hair and moustaches that were not so grey as they are today!

... I look forward to being part of the Lodge on its journey towards its 50th Anniversary for as the PGM has been known to remark &ldquo;it is possibly the best Lodge in the Province&rdquo;]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Royal Ark Mariner Assembly</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-12-02T23:58:10+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/064a7a6c7302640e1352d39050f02669-26.html#unique-entry-id-26</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/064a7a6c7302640e1352d39050f02669-26.html#unique-entry-id-26</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the Provincial Royal Ark Mariner Assembly, Nailsea on Saturday 30th January 2010 the following brethren will be promoted by the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master.


...Holton, Herbert Fuller Lodge RAM No.128

...Wadman, William Long Lodge RAM No. 

...George (Ian) Waterhouse, Thackeray Lodge RAM No. 

...Walter Wood, Nailsea Lodge RAM No.1548	]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Surprise donation from George Norman Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-12-02T23:48:09+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/054486f462b08c009ef7fe82cd48c64f-25.html#unique-entry-id-25</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/054486f462b08c009ef7fe82cd48c64f-25.html#unique-entry-id-25</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[George Norman Mark Lodge Charity Steward Tony Norman presents a cheque to David Nelson for a magnificent &pound;1000 for his appeal.   Looking on are the new Senior Warden Mike Morish, new Master Steve Collings and new Junior Warden Jim Gilbody.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Talking Dogs ?&#x21;?</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-09-09T23:06:49+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5b33e165c900f5bfd9bc6ad8c7219a37-24.html#unique-entry-id-24</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/5b33e165c900f5bfd9bc6ad8c7219a37-24.html#unique-entry-id-24</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[ 


The Provincial Grand Master's appeal to raise &pound;10,000 each for St John Ambulance and Hearing Dogs for the Deaf got off to an interesting start in Somerset Installed Mark Masters Lodge when the Lodge secretary V.W.Bro John Lendon accidentally renamed the project the "talking dogs"!   The  comment was the cause of much laughter in Lodge, much to John's embarrassment!
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mark grand Officers Mess</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-10-13T22:31:13+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1778188e09f59ec0c7719f526cca6f49-23.html#unique-entry-id-23</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/1778188e09f59ec0c7719f526cca6f49-23.html#unique-entry-id-23</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[This is an important occasion in the Masonic Calendar and it was good to see the room full of chatting and laughing members.

As usual, the random seating plan invited diners to select a numbered ticket and find the same numbered seat amongst the round tables set out in the dining room.   The lunch was to the usual very high standard we have all become accustomed to at Clevedon, and much appreciation was shown to Zena, Neil Hurcum and their team for the super meal.

...This site is up-dated weekly with news, photographs, forthcoming events and a section for Secretaries and Scribes to down-load the many forms and information required throughout the Masonic year.   The date for the next Grand Officers Mess will appear on the future events page. report and photo Pat Morrisey
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Special Presentation of the Tracing Board</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-09-28T08:23:10+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d0c13cb0f475b823f4b25408fc94d4cc-22.html#unique-entry-id-22</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/d0c13cb0f475b823f4b25408fc94d4cc-22.html#unique-entry-id-22</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Well, to keep all Mark members familiar with the history of the Degree and the deeper message contained in the Ritual, it is the usual practice, whenever possible, for Mark Lodges to arrange for senior Lodge members or a visiting distinguished and learned brother to present the Mark Lecture once each Masonic Year. 

...After the Ceremony of Advancement was completed and the new Mark Master Mason Brother John Wring had taken his seat in the Lodge, the Mark Lecture was presented to the appreciation of all present - including our Provincial Grand Master - David Nelson, by the last two  Candidates to be advanced into the Lodge, Brothers, Tony Price, Dominic Male together with a new joining member, Ian McDonald!   The presentation was not to be faulted and on its conclusion, the Lodge members gave a round of applause, which was noticeably appreciated by the three lecturers! 

The appreciation of their hard work continued into the splendid Festive Board with the after dinner speakers, including new Advancee John, bringing it into many a toast or reply. 

...The Picture shows: left to right, Provincial Grand Master David Nelson with John Wring, Tony Price, Dominic Male and Ian McDonald. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Lodge of Improvement visist Irwin RAM</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-16T15:31:42+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/88d48e8dfc41f2cad5550184713e721f-21.html#unique-entry-id-21</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/88d48e8dfc41f2cad5550184713e721f-21.html#unique-entry-id-21</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[It was an excellent presentation of quite a complicated piece of Masonic Ritual by Derek and his team who are from left to right, Wayne Kelly, John Nicholson, David Holder, Geoff Seaman, Sandy Kemlo, Derek Wilton, Ian Strickland, Phil Voisey, Neil Hawes, John Smith and Andy Gray


The Somerset Lodge of Improvement team are happy to provide demonstrations of both the Mark and Ark Mariner Tracing Boards, contact the preceptor Derek Wilton for more information.<span style="color:#0000FF;"><u><a href="mailto:derek.witon@sky.com">derek.witon@sky.com</a></u></span>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Portcullis Donation boosts the PGM&#x27;s Appeal</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-29T17:54:22+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9f8b402c52554a22bf0e18d0f090d272-20.html#unique-entry-id-20</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/9f8b402c52554a22bf0e18d0f090d272-20.html#unique-entry-id-20</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the recent Installation of Portcullis Lodge DPGM Ray Guthrie was presented with Cheques totalling &pound;500 for the PGMs appeal the total currently stands at &pound;5,201 just over 25% of the Target.   David Bates the IPM and John Vowles, Master present the cheques to the Deputy PGM.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>New Daylight Lodge</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-29T16:00:47+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/af33e75553f867b7895908faebb258ae-19.html#unique-entry-id-19</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/af33e75553f867b7895908faebb258ae-19.html#unique-entry-id-19</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Two  meetings of prospective founders have been held, it has been agreed to name the Lodge the Isle of Wedmore Lodge of Mark Master Masons.


It has also been agreed that John Peters will be the founding Master, Peter Layzell the founding Senior Warden and Barry Burridge the founding Junior Warden,Kevin Rees Jones the founding Secretary and Mike Waterman the founding Treasurer. 


It is planned for the Lodge to meet three times a year, on the second Wednesday of May, June and September at 11am, May being the Installation Meeting. 

...This is not enough for the project to be carried forward, at least another seven founders are required to make a minimum of twenty four to meet the Provincial Grand Masters requirements. (there is no maximum number)


...Any Mark Master Mason who is a subscribing member of a Mark Lodge and is in good standing with that Lodge can be a founder, it is not necessary to be a Past Master. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Pat Parker 50 years a Mason</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-29T15:51:35+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7f4730c6520dadfd61aeb29de7d1211a-18.html#unique-entry-id-18</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7f4730c6520dadfd61aeb29de7d1211a-18.html#unique-entry-id-18</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the October meeting of St Keyna Lodge, 1833 Peter Layzell the Deputy PGM presented a 50 Year Veterans' Certificate to Alan Patrick Parker. ...  He spent 25 years with the company before moving on to the Thompson Organisation and retired as a divisional controller at the age of 57. 

...Many brethren of the Mark Degree will of course remember Pat as the Deputy PGM of the Mark in Somerset, a position he held for five years from 1997 to 2002 having served as Provincial DC for eight years prior to that. 

...In other orders he holds Grand Rank in Holy Royal Arch, 30 Degrees in Rose Croix, PPrReg. in KT, is a member of the Royal Order of Scotland and those of us who have enjoyed our Masonry in the company of this remarkable and nice man can vouch for his dedication and even today he will pick up the smallest mistake in the Ceremonies and have a quiet word with you afterwards!

...The photo shows a distinguished group of Mark Master Masons - left to right - Cliff Hannabuss Past Prov DC, Brian Varcoe, Peter Layzell, Pat Parker, Dickie Dodsworth (past DPGM), Tony Hick (past PGM) and Geoff Nash (past DPGM).]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Would you believe it&#x21;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-19T12:18:44+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/4d28b7742ad031f926774ad0b16f4bce-17.html#unique-entry-id-17</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/4d28b7742ad031f926774ad0b16f4bce-17.html#unique-entry-id-17</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;At the Monument Lodge meeting on Wednesday 18th November 2009


...One winner was John Nicholson


One winner was John Gould, Junior Warden of Monument


...One winner was John Nicholson!


One winner was John Gould, Junior Warden of Monument!
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Working Replica of Noah&#x27;s Ark </title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-15T23:08:03+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7dc7a1d325c25ff1213ce04c46b43872-16.html#unique-entry-id-16</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/7dc7a1d325c25ff1213ce04c46b43872-16.html#unique-entry-id-16</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[This replica of the biblical Ark was built by Dutch Creationist Johan Huibers as a testament to his faith in the literal truth of the Bible.  ...  On the uncovered top deck - not quite ready in time for the opening - will come a petting zoo, with baby lambs and chickens, and goats, and one camel.  ...  'It's past comprehension', said Mary Louise Starosciak, who happened to be bicycling by with her husband while on vacation when they saw the ark looming over the local landscape.    'I knew the story of Noah, but I had no idea the boat would have been so big ' There is enough space near the keel for a 50-seat film theater where kids can watch a video that tells the story of Noah and his ark.   Huibers, a Christian man, said he hopes the project will renew interest in Christianity in the Netherlands, where church going has fallen dramatically in the past 50 years.  ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Continued support for Nailsea MS Centre.</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-11T10:42:17+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/635a8079e6b6036f68743bccbaa10741-15.html#unique-entry-id-15</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/635a8079e6b6036f68743bccbaa10741-15.html#unique-entry-id-15</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Nailsea Mark Lodge has supported this facility which helps those suffering from this debilitating disease for many years.   On Monday a new donation of &pound;200 was approved and the Lodge Charity Steward, Cliff Hannabuss announced that the Provincial Benevolent fund would also give &pound;200.   This would make a total of &pound;400 that will be presented in the near future by the new Master of Nailsea Mark Lodge, Richard Ellis and himself.


For more information about the West of England MS centre at Nailsea go to http://www.mstherapybristol.org.uk/


Richard Ellis, Master of Nailsea Mark Lodge and Cliff Hannabuss, the Lodge Charity Steward present a cheque for &pound;400 to West of England MS Therapy Centre at Nailsea.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Changes at the top in Craft</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-11T10:42:24+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/3692cd8b94fe49fb2c4c205d0f3247ee-14.html#unique-entry-id-14</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/3692cd8b94fe49fb2c4c205d0f3247ee-14.html#unique-entry-id-14</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[He has made a great contribution to Freemasonry in the Province, his good sense of humour and outrageous golfing stories concerning a former Assistant PGM have made him many friends throughout the Province! ...  He is a member of the William de Irwin Mark Lodge in Yeovil and is also planning to be a founder member of the proposed new Mark Daylight Lodge at Wedmore.


Stuart Hadler becomes the new Deputy, Stuart is a Past Master of the Somerdale Mark Lodge at Keynsham and Past Commander of Nailsea Lodge of RAM. ...  John is currently Provincial Grand Deputy Secretary of the Mark, he is a Past Master of Langdale Mark Lodge and Senior Warden of the Fidelity and Unanimity Lodge of RAM in Taunton.


We wish both of these distinguished brethren well in there new roles, the changes take effect at the next Provincial Meeting to be held on 25th March 2010 at Weston super Mare.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Mendip Mark Lodge - Scout Presentation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-05T10:25:07+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/4e93783f967fd17b145e6469e4df2ec4-13.html#unique-entry-id-13</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/4e93783f967fd17b145e6469e4df2ec4-13.html#unique-entry-id-13</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Responding to a plea in the local newspaper for financial assistance, W.Bro John Smith is seen presenting a cheque for &pound;250 to Paul Bently (chairman) of the 1st Street Scout Group on behalf of the Mendip Lodge of Mark Master Masons, in doing so he explained that the values of the Scout Association reflect many of those central to Freemasonry particularly character building and helping others and that he was delighted the local Mark Masons Lodge was able to assist in their development quest.   Also in the photo are Bro Jan Nicholls (Charity Steward) and left, Ecic White (Group Scout Manager).]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Prostate Cancer Run</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-11-01T16:43:58+00:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/26ca23a49d1a140f3cb80f4afbca0eff-12.html#unique-entry-id-12</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/26ca23a49d1a140f3cb80f4afbca0eff-12.html#unique-entry-id-12</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Colin had been diagnosed with prostate cancer in November 08 and has undergone intensive Radio Therapy treatment, plus on-going Hormonal Injections, and after treatment is hoping he will be in remission.   Colin has remained very open about his propbelm, and is hoping to draw attention to the fact that the disease which claims 10,000 deaths per year is preventable if caught early. 


The object of &lsquo;RUN FOR THE FUTURE&rsquo; was to obtain sponsorship money for the B.U.I (Bristol Urology Institute), at Southmead Hospital, to aid research into the possible causes/effects/treatment/ maybe leading to a cure eventually. 


Colin to date has collected over &pound;1200 with many Brethren donating, including large donations from his Craft Lodge &ndash; Priory, Carnarvon Mark Lodge, and Mark Province. 

...The photograph 1 shows Colin at the finishing line ( he&rsquo;s on the left) having completed the 5 klm run/jog/walk in just over 50mintues ish! ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Provincial Officers photos</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-09-24T09:02:11+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0f1a4a12b55cb21b15948fc4963a7224-9.html#unique-entry-id-9</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/0f1a4a12b55cb21b15948fc4963a7224-9.html#unique-entry-id-9</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[At the request of W.Bro Frank Silver and his wife Katherine, I have added a  page with photos of some of this years Provincial Officers.   These were taken at the Provincial visit to Nailsea Lodge in May this year]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>The Angle Lifeboat &#x22;Mark Mason&#x22;</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-09-04T15:38:21+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a1539d1efa2449a43e6e5952819d13f8-8.html#unique-entry-id-8</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/a1539d1efa2449a43e6e5952819d13f8-8.html#unique-entry-id-8</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Have a look at these photos I took when I went to the naming ceremony of the Angle Lifeboat 'Mark Mason' in Pembrokeshire.


...He is well known (or notorious depending on your point of view) in the Craft in Somerset as the DC of Marine Lodge, formally secretary of that Lodge and Whitchurch Lodge.


...The people of Pembrokeshire and Birmingham have been fundraising or 3 years to get a Tamar on station at Angle. 


...The main donor gets to name the lifeboat, and she will be named &lsquo;Mark Mason&rsquo; at a dedication ceremony in the summer, Lifeboat Operations Manager John Allen-Mirehouse said: &ldquo;This is a very exciting day for the volunteer RNLI crew at Angle and a momentous occasion for the station.   We are extremely proud to be the second of the RNLI&rsquo;s 31 lifeboat stations in Wales to take delivery of this fantastic boat and seeing her arrive in the distance was quite a moment for everyone. ]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Cerdic Royal Ark Mariners Installation</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-09-04T15:07:57+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e78023408c9631e6740af80a5d8115fc-7.html#unique-entry-id-7</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/e78023408c9631e6740af80a5d8115fc-7.html#unique-entry-id-7</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Installing Commander and Lodge Scribe Richard Baber with the new Commander Mike Condick and his Junior Warden Kevin Aylott, Senior Warden Bill Newton was unavoidably absent.   The outgoing Commander Ian Walker is still in hospital in Cyprus having suffered a heart attack while on holiday, to compound the problem the Lodge Treasurer Gillie Potter died suddenly on the 27th August.   However Richard volunteered to do the Installation, which he did in his usual very competent manner, Nigel White takes over as Treasurer.   The year ahead looks more settled, hopefully Ian Walker will make a full recovery and the Lodge has two candidates for their meetings on 10th March and 26th May 2010.


Installaing Commander Richard Baber, Commander Mike Condick and Junior Warden Kevin Aylott.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Charity Stewards and Almoners</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-08-28T10:42:43+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/09c794bcb54f229c40a012e87802d182-4.html#unique-entry-id-4</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/09c794bcb54f229c40a012e87802d182-4.html#unique-entry-id-4</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The annual Charity Stewards & Almoners meeting will be held as usual this year at the Masonic Hall, Burnham-On-Sea on Tuesday 20th October&nbsp;commencing at 7.00pm&nbsp;and will be chaired by V.W.Bro Ray Guthrie.


...We will have representatives from the Hearing Dogs For The Deaf and from St Johns Ambulance at the meeting,&nbsp;the two charities benefitting from The Provincial Grand Master's Project Fund.


...As in previous years a cash bar will be available and light refreshments&nbsp;will be provided courtesy of the Province.


...Your support at this meeting will be much appreciated and we look forward to seeing you and your Bro Almoner.   If you are unable to attend, will you please arrange for somebody to represent you who will be able to give a report to your Lodge.
]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Computer expert</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-08-28T10:24:26+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/c75cdae43ddc99ed4843d2a7b66b1f29-3.html#unique-entry-id-3</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/c75cdae43ddc99ed4843d2a7b66b1f29-3.html#unique-entry-id-3</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Reliable sources (mentioning no names but it was Barrie Baker) report that John Lendon has now mastered switching on the computer in his living room, and that he may even start to use it!]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Les stands down</title><dc:creator>rayg@somersetmarkmason.co.uk</dc:creator><dc:subject>News Archive</dc:subject><dc:date>2009-08-28T09:45:32+01:00</dc:date><link>http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fcce86f54d04606146a30e7648d92b08-1.html#unique-entry-id-1</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.somersetmarkmason.co.uk/home/files/fcce86f54d04606146a30e7648d92b08-1.html#unique-entry-id-1</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The long serving secretary of Nailsea Mark Lodge is standing down after many years of loyal service to the Lodge and the Province.   Les Downs says his decision was prompted because he is to undergo heart surgery at the end of this month.   This will be followed by further surgery on his hip at a later date.   We thank Les for all his hard work over many years and of course we wish him well for the future. 


We welcome Philip Thorne, currently the assistant secretary who takes over from Les as Secretary.]]></content:encoded></item></channel>
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