A Personal Challenge Inspires Provincial Support
On Thursday, 9th October, the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master took the rather unusual step of attending the Installation of the Master of one of his own Lodges.
The occasion marked the Installation of Worshipful Brother Stephen Young for a second consecutive year as Master of Coquetdale Lodge, Alnwick, conducted by his father, Worshipful Brother Allan Young, the Immediate Past Master.
A Ride for a Worthy Cause
Earlier in June, Stephen undertook an epic 170-mile cycle ride from Bristol to London with several friends, raising funds for Prostate Cancer UK. His dedication and endurance on this challenge raised the fantastic sum of £1,700, prompting the Provincial Grand Lodge to recognise his efforts by matching the donation with an equal contribution of £1,700 from the Richard Henry Holmes Masonic Benevolent Fund – the Province’s own charitable fund that supports both Masonic and non-Masonic good causes.
Ceremony, Emotion, and Recognition
The Installation ceremony itself was exemplary – a full and flawless ritual conducted by W. Bro. Allan Young, culminating in an emotionally charged rendition of “Hail, Masonry Divine!”
After the ceremony, R.W. Bro. Kevin Stannard, Provincial Grand Master, offered warm congratulations to W. Bro. Stephen Young on his reinstallation and commended his commitment to such a worthy medical charity.
He also reaffirmed the Province’s continued support for men’s health initiatives, assuring the Brethren that free prostate cancer screening packs would once again be available at the Annual Meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge in November, continuing the successful initiative introduced last year.
Doubling the Impact
In recognition of Stephen’s achievement, the Provincial Grand Master presented him with a cheque for £1,700, doubling his fundraising total to a remarkable £3,400 for Prostate Cancer UK.
This generous support reflects the ongoing commitment of Northumberland Freemasons to promoting health awareness and contributing meaningfully to the wider community.