Two Leigh-on-Sea Freemasons celebrate 50 Years of Friendship

Special presentation by Assistant Provincial Grand Master at Leigh-on-Sea Lodge

At a recent meeting, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Martin Howse, visited Leigh-on-Sea Lodge No. 4708 to present two 50-year Certificates for Meritorious Service to Craig Bowles and Peter Edwards who have both served as Masters of the Lodge twice.

Having joined Freemasonry at about the same time, Craig and Peter have become life-long friends. Martin Howse gave a potted Masonic history for both which was well received by all 37 members and visitors present.

The 45-strong Lodge meets four times a year at Saxon Hall, the Southend Masonic Centre, and has had several fathers and sons among its membership. Craig Bowles said “I clearly remember the day of my initiation in 1973. I was proposed by my father and seconded by my brother.  The proudest moment of my 50 years in the Lodge was initiating my own son, Richard, and leading the next two ceremonies for him to become a Master Mason.”

Leigh-on-Sea Lodge was formed in 1925 by builders, schoolmasters, clergymen, undertakers and local retailers in meat, corn, wines and spirits in the Leigh-on-Sea area. It is one of nearly 300 lodges which meet at 26 centres across Essex with around 7,500 members who regularly donate £1 million or more each year for local charities and community groups in the County as well as volunteering a lot of time to good causes.  

Photos

Top (L-R): Riyad Cajee – Junior Warden, Graeme Cook - Worshipful Master, Craig Bowles, Martin Howse APGM, Peter Edwards and Jayson Read – Senior Warden.

Bottom (L-R): Craig Bowles, Martin Howse APGM and Peter Edwards