Lodge Formed 29th October 1983 with the approval of the Regiment of the Durham Light Infantry. We use their badge as part of our crest. The Worshipful Master’s chain is made from an authentic Inkerman Whistle and chain presented by a founding past master. This whistle was first used in the battle of Inkerman on 5th November 1854 during the Crimea war by the 68th Durham Regiment of Foot. (It was 68th in order of precedence with the appointment of a new Colonel as Lambton's Regiment of Foot or the 68th Regiment of foot As the charge was sounded, the DLI - led by Major-General Sir George Cathcart - ran into battle against the Russians. As the battle raged on, Major-General Sir George Cathcart was killed, and many other officers met the same fate or were injured. The Sargent’s and NCOs stepped up using sheer determination and leadership. They pressed the attack with a bayonet charge which routed a larger Russian force using the whistle for command and control. The 68th Durham Regiment of Foot was amalgamated on the 1st July 1881 with the 106th Light Infantry forming the 1st Battalion of the Durham Light Infantry and the second battalion formed from the 106 Bombay Light Infantry in India. The DLI was amalgamated with 3 other Light Infantry Regiments. The nickname "Faithful Durham" refers to the regiment's reliable and determined service in many actions. When the DLI was amalgamated, the "Faithful Durham" distinction was carried on the Regimental Colours of The Light Infantry as a "motto" of sorts.
The successor regiment, The Light Infantry, used the official Latin motto "Celer et Audax" which translates to "Swift and Bold". The traditions of the DLI and The Light Infantry now live on within The Rifles Regiment, formed in 2007. (British Army’s largest infantry regiment, at the forefront of overseas operations) who still mark the victory on the 5th November as a regimental anniversary. The Rifles still use the Crown and Horn as their cap badge.
What We Do
We use Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Charity, which are the foundation stones of a Freemason, to raise funds for local, national and international charities.
We have a history of caring for the welfare of our members, past members and the widows of former members.
Enjoy a warm welcome, good company and a great night!
Why Join Us
We have a good mentoring system aimed at helping and guiding new, as well as established members. We believe it is not only our duty to encourage each other but also to guide all our brothers, both present and past, with the satisfaction that while helping each other we are also raising funds for various local, national, and international charities. The Festive Board is a time to relax and enjoy the company of like-minded people, engage in interesting and varied conversations whilst enjoying a high-quality meal.
Should you need to travel or move to a new location here or abroad, there will likely be a Freemasons lodge ready to make you welcome, and for you to make new friends.
We have an Esprit de Corps, which is defined as, a shared spirit of comradeship, enthusiasm, and devotion to a cause among members of our Lodge.
If you are curious about Freemasonry and its 300-year history, looking for exciting challenges & learning new skills, coupled with fun & camaraderie then please get in contact.