FREEMASONS from throughout Cornwall gathered in Newquay on Sunday, March 19 to officially start their celebration of 300 years of The United Grand Lodge of Engand.

A tercentenary Sunday lunch was held at the Hotel Bristol and attended by more than 180 people consisting of representatives of Cornish Lodges together with family, friends and other invited guests.

Granville Lodge No.3405, which meets in Bude, was represented by charity steward Peter Reeve and treasurer John Weller together with their wives.

A splendid three course lunch was enjoyed by everyone present after which the Provincial Grand Master, Stephen Pearn, thanked everyone for attending and pledged the province’s ongoing commitment to local communities. He then very carefully cut the huge four-tier birthday cake, with everyone attending receiving a slice.

A raffle and auction raised in the region of £2,000 for masonic charities, one of which was TLC, Teddies for Loving Care. This charity provides teddy bears to hospital A and E departments to be given to young children who are in a distressed condition while awaiting treatment.

The masonic Province of Cornwall was formed in 1752 with Stephen Pearn being only the 16th Provincial Grand Master to hold the office and Granville Lodge was consecrated on December 10 1909.

Further celebrations have been planned which include a service in Truro Cathedral in June and a family fun day with a hog roast and barn dance in July,

Granville Lodge will be holding local celebrations with a Sunday afternoon tea party on July 9 and an open day at the Masonic Hall on July 30.

For further information about freemasonry in Cornwall email [email protected]