Carry on to Cleator
 
It was on the 15th November 2025, on a damp but improving morning, that a number of intrepid Allied West Lancashire Masons, made the trip up to Cleator Moor Masonic Centre for the annual meeting of the District Grand Council of Cumberland and Westmoreland. The directions to this outward-bound venue are quite simple, take the M6 motorway up to Penrith, turn left and follow the directions to the end of the earth. When you get there, drive another 10 miles to get to Cleator Moor (credit to one of our colleagues for this witty repost). Of course, the journey isn’t that bad, unless you follow your sat nav, and find yourself circumventing the Cumbrian mountains via the coastal path to save a few seconds off the journey (not recommended in the evening gloom of the return trip). Joking apart, as we all know, Cumberland and Westmoreland is a beautiful part of the country, and Cleator Moor well worth a visit.
 
In fact, it is known as the gateway to the Lake District, and dates back to the 12 Century when Cleator was founded by monks. During the 18th century Industrial revolution it was also a much-prized area of iron ore mining, with many of our Irish Brethren involved in the search for and mining of iron ore, leading to its then nickname ‘Little Ireland’.
Early arrivals with a welcoming cuppa
It was the usual warm reception at Cleator, with warm beverages and bacon barms aplenty, and of course the meet up with friends old and new. Suitably refreshed after the journey, time passes quickly on these occasions and soon it was time to take our seats in the Lodge Room. West Lancs attendees were down in number on this occasion, due to conflicting events, one of which was an Allied Investiture of a new DGP in London in the presence of the Grand Master, and also the son of our own DGP was being Installed as WM in his Lodge, an event that Mark couldn’t miss.
West Lancs Brethren, John Bicknel, Paul Snape, Ian Nairn, Richard Higson and Ray Pye
A homely and welcoming Lodge Room ready for action
Select a number to win a prize, including a 2 gallon bottle of the Scottish finest
The District Grand Prefect was processed into the Lodge with his officers, and the formal part of the occasion was completed very efficiently. The new District Officers were appointed to the applause of Brethren and were saluted by C&W brethren. The usual business was conducted, and, as the time approached midday, the Lodge was closed and the DGP and distinguished guests processed out of the Lodge. I’ve got to say at this stage that C&W secretariat played a blinder in providing a more prominent place in the Lodge Room and Festive Board for RW Brother Paul Snape PDGP, than his more senior East Lancashire equivalent, Mervyn Wilson PDGP. Sorry about that Mervyn, but cream always rises to the top as they say.
West Lancashire Brethren Richard Higson, Paul Snape, Ian Nairn and John Bicknel slaking their thirst before dinner
Following some after meeting socialising with a G&T, the dining room filled up quickly and the chatter accompanying the dinner provided evidence of the Brethren thoroughly enjoying themselves.
   
Just a few wine takings, toasts and responses followed. Together with the prize draw, of which our Dep DGP was a recipient winning a nice bottle of the hard stuff, and very soon we were taking leave of a wonderful occasion. From beyond the edge of the earth to God’s country beckoned. I was in good hands for the journey though, Ian Nairn, Dep DGP for West Lancashire, is also a seasoned former rally driver, and, with my hands gripping the seat in anticipation, the engine growled and roared into action as his souped-up jalopy carried us with ease through the hairpin bends and chicanes of Cumbria, even if it was via an unintended scenic trip around Barrow!

 
Words by our flat earth correspondent & Photographs by various Brethren