On Saturday 26th of July 2025, an Extraordinary Meeting of the Vale of Nene Lodge No 7006 was held at Peterborough Masonic Centre to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Consecration of the Lodge. The Vale of Nene were joined by their friends in Freemasonry, as well as many wives, partners and guests. Some Masonic Guests had travelled as far as Yorkshire to represent Lodges who’s members held office when The Lodge was formed in 1950.
The Lodge was opened in due form just after 11am and the dispensation was read. The official visitor for the occasion was the Assistant Provincial Grand Master W Bro Dale Gilbert, who was accompanied by his Director of Ceremonies W Bro Jason Harris ProvAGDC. The only item of business was to initiate Mr Graham Mark Mangion. Mr Mangion was initiated into Freemasonry in an excellent fashion by the Lodge Officers, including the North East Corner presented by W.Bro Rhys Perrin, the working tools were presented superbly by Bro Andy Jones, the charge was given thoughtfully by W.Bro Phil Hammersley, and finally W.Bro Justin Beaumont of Fitzwilliam Lodge, the mother Lodge of The Vale of Nene, gave an insightful rendition of the extended version of the First Degree Tracing Board.
Front row: W.Bro Bob Smith, W.Bro Dale Gilbert APGM, WM – W.Bro Chris Harris, Bro Initiate Graham Mangion, W.Bro Philip Miles , plus Lodge Wardens
Whilst the Lodge meeting was in progress all the guests attended a presentation by W Bro Mike Neville on Freemasonry and the origins of Forensic Science. From the laughter that could be heard outside of the Lodge Room, it was a most enjoyable and interesting talk.
At the festive board, over 80 Brethren, wives, partners and guests enjoyed good company, good food and finally three orations on: Freemasonry in Peterborough and the formation of The Vale of Nene on 31st July 1950; The Lodge and Notable members; and The Vale of Nene Lodge in the 21st Century and the future, given by W.Bro Craig Bunday, Secretary of Fitzwilliam Lodge, W.Bro Phil Hammersley, Lodge Secretary, and W.Bro Rhys Perrin, Lodge ADC respectively.
The Assistant Provincial Grand Master rose in reply to his toast, and specifically thanked those members of the Light Blues Club, who had attended in support of him, and also as part of their ‘Light Blues Passport’ visiting initiative.
Finally, WBro Chris Harris, Worshipful Master, thanks everyone for coming along and making the Vale Of Nene Lodge’s celebrations so special.
The Bar prior to the meeting