The Guernsey and Alderney Freemasons are celebrating a summer of hard work, dedication and teamwork following significant improvements to the Masonic Centre and its grounds in St Martin’s.
Over the summer months, Brethren from across the Province, alongside a number of local businesses, have given their time, skills and support to enhance both the interior and exterior of the Masonic Centre, creating an even more welcoming environment for members and visitors alike.
One of the most striking additions is the newly created Len Tostevin Memorial Garden, who was a member of Loyalty Lodge who have helped fund this amazing areas which features the Square and Compass, the recognised symbol of Freemasonry, surrounded by a beautiful selection of roses and planting. The garden has been transformed thanks to the efforts of many volunteers, including members of the Light Blues Club and the Guernsey and Alderney Installed Masters, who dedicated weekends to digging, planting and landscaping.
To help coordinate ongoing improvements and maintenance, a new working group alongside Septimal who help ensure the facilities are cared for. Comprising Brethren from each Guernsey Lodge within the Province, the group help ensure the Masonic Centre and its grounds continue to be cared for and developed for future generations.
The work has also been supported by a number of local companies, including Hill-Smith Ltd and A.C. Heating Services, together with several other businesses that have generously contributed to the project.
Special recognition has been given to Martyn Guille, who oversees the care of the building and grounds and whose dedication has been instrumental in delivering improvements throughout the site. His commitment and leadership have helped transform many areas of the Centre, with enhancements ranging from practical improvements to significant refurbishments.
Among the latest additions is a secure bicycle storage area, making it easier for members to travel to meetings by bike. Inside the Centre, the bar area and kitchen have undergone a major facelift, while several Brethren have generously donated and built new bar tables, further enhancing the facilities enjoyed by members and guests.
The timing of the improvements could not have been better, with the Province welcoming the start of the new Masonic season this week. On Wednesday evening, Mariners Lodge No. 168, the oldest Lodge in the Province, held its first meeting following the summer recess.
More than 40 Brethren attended the meeting, which featured a Second Degree Ceremony for Brother Alex Elliott, who joined Freemasonry earlier this year. The evening was enjoyed by all in attendance and concluded with a festive board where a charity raffle raised £200 for good causes.
As a member of Mariners Lodge No. 168, the Right Worshipful Brother Phil Falla, Head of Guernsey and Alderney Freemasonry, was among those attending the meeting, which marked a fitting start to the new season and showcased the impressive improvements made to the Masonic Centre over the summer.
The extensive programme of works demonstrates the strong spirit of friendship, volunteerism and community that exists throughout Guernsey and Alderney Freemasonry, ensuring the Masonic Centre remains a valued home for Freemasons and an important community facility for many years to come.
It is 30 years this year that meeting have been taking place in this incredible purpose built facility and from newly covered Master and Warden chairs to new free pumps at the bar we are blessed to have the incredible facilities which continually need care and for anyone interested there are many ways to support this from the monthly lottery to the donation box outside the main lodge room, speak to Septimal who have many future projects that need support to leaving a gift in you will which al helps ensure freemasonry for the future in Guernsey.
