On Wednesday, 21st June 2006, the brethren of Norman Lodge and their guests including the Provincial Grand Master, Rt. W. Bro. Derek Richmond, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master,
W. Bro. Eric Heaviside, and Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, W. Bros. George Clark and Denis Lascelles gathered to hear an unofficial Prestonian Lecture entitled:
"The Victoria Cross - Freemasons' Band of Brothers" given by W. Bro. G.S. Angell M.Ed., B.Sc., B.A., R.V. (retired), PPr SGW (Worcestershire).
A number of non-Masonic guests were also present including Lt. Commander John Bridge G.C., G.M. and Bar, King's Commendation for Bravery, representing the Victoria and George Cross Association.

The Lodge was opened in due form and, after the official business, closed. The non-Masons were then admitted and Lt. Commander Bridge was welcomed by the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Arthur Lockyear.

W. Bro. Angell gave an excellent lecture delivered without notes and with obvious knowledge of, and fervour for, his subject. He led us through the establishment of the Victoria Cross, dispelling myths and illuminating little known facts on the way.
His researches had uncovered previously unknown Masonic V.C's and they now totalled 142:
more than ten per cent of the total number of recipients.
He outlined the role of Masons influential in setting up the Order and described the life of Rear Admiral Sir William Hewett, V.C., K.C.B., who was awarded his medal for action in the Crimean War. He was in fact the first Masonic V.C. and the fifth person to receive his medal from Queen Victoria at the inaugural investiture.

At the conclusion of his lecture W. Bro. Angell was greeted with generous applause and thanked by the Worshipful Master.

The assembly then retired to the festive board and, after dining, the usual Masonic toasts were given. The Corps of Bugles of the Army Cadet Force led by Bugle Major Derek Corbett entertained with a number of traditional bugle calls. The Worshipful Master presented Major Corbett with a cheque for the Corps' funds. A special toast to the Victoria and George Cross Association was given by the Master, to which Lt. Commander Bridge responded. A donation was made to W. Bro. Angell: to help with his work in restoring the graves of Victoria Cross holders.

This concluded a memorable evening that was enjoyed by masons and non-masons alike.

Click Here for some photographs of the occasion.