Latest News

Norman Lodge, No., 1334, once again opened its doors to welcome members, visitors and guests, as it has done since 1870. On this special occasion it welcomed George Clark, Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master accompanied by his Director of Ceremonies David Turnbull. This special occasion was to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of William Frederick Simpson.

It was also the evening of the visit of members of the Marquis of Granby Lodge 124 on the evening of their annual fraternal visit and it was to prove a busy evening with 63 brethren in attendance.

The Lodge was opened and following the formalities George presented a biography of Bill’s masonic career and personal life which was as follows:

Bill was initiated into Norman Lodge on 20 Nov. 1968. He was proposed by his Father, John George Gibson and seconded by Dr. Cecil Duncan. He was passed on the 19 March 1969 and raised on the 15 October 1969.

On leaving school Bill was apprenticed at the NCB but following adolescent illness had to change his career path and became a service engineer and then moved into management. Just before being raised he took up a management, post on Teesside, which meant that due to pressures of work made it impossible to follow a masonic career.

Following this then Bill became self-employed running his own electrical business, in Crook, but again worked so many hours that it was impossible for him to follow freemasonry other than as a brother although he did become a Founder of Service above Self Lodge 9537.

He retired at the age of 68 and took up caravanning as a serious interest.

George then presented the citation and said that this was proper recognition for Bill’s service. Bill responded by saying that,” He never imagined that after 50 years he would be standing here tonight wearing the same tatty apron”.

The Lodge closed and all retired to enjoy the festive board at which Bill was presented with a commemorative gift and an engraved plaque. This was then followed by harmony presented by the Master Fred Colley and his band.

On conclusion of the evening many brothers remained to enjoy each other’s company and reminisce on the past 50 years.