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The Sleaford masonic centre was packed for a meeting of the growing Rough Ashlars club at which members were able to meet members of the Provincial Executive team and hear from the club’s committee.
The Rough Ashlars is a club designed to bring together Light Blue apron-wearing members throughout the Province as a mutual support network and friendship group, taking groups of its members to support new brethren joining the craft and progressing through their degree ceremonies, as well as arranging social events. The ultimate aim is to have representatives in every centre, and ultimately every Lodge, and the 16-strong committee is working towards that.
Chairman Mike Coleman said: “The Lincolnshire Rough Ashlars is a club run by Light Blues, for the Light Blues in the Province – though it’s stressed that any Dark Blues who feel Light Blue at heart will be welcome too.
“We meet throughout the province and help new members navigate their first steps in Freemasonry by getting together for regular social events which can include anything from pub quizzes, brewery visits, go-karting along with anything else that the members wish to do. In addition, we visit Lodges on nights of initiation to welcome new members.”
There’s no cost to join, and having been initiated every new Freemason is automatically a member. Some activities may require a ticket to cover the cost of admission but otherwise The Rough Ashlars is completely free.
Mike adds: “We do however suggest that you purchase a specially-commissioned Club Tie at a cost of £15, which by kind permission of the Provincial Grand Master, can be worn at meetings and social occasions. We also have polo shirts available for £20.”
Everyone on Facebook is invited to search for the ‘Lincolnshire Rough Ashlars’ Facebook group, and include their Lodge name and number in their request to join to group. Mike says that’s the best way to keep abreast of developments.
More information about the club is available from it officials, who’d also be keen to hear from volunteers ready to increase club representation at Lodges and centres where it doesn’t already have a formal presence: Chairman – Mike Coleman – 07866 637799; Vice-Chairman – Richard Skells – 07590 455850; Secretary – Steve Henman – 07446 880005 / lincsroughashlars@gmail.com
Pictures: Ralf Galloway
