A LOOK behind the scenes of the Freemasonry world was snapped up by people in Ipswich who went along to an open day in the town.

By Nick Richards

nick.richards@eveningstar.co.uk

A LOOK behind the scenes of the Freemasonry world was snapped up by people in Ipswich who went along to an open day in the town.

The day was held at Freemasons' Hall in Soane Street as part of a nationwide awareness week to demonstrate how Freemasonry works in the community and to openly answer questions about what is often thought of as a secretive world.

Members of the public were invited to take a tour around the lodge, to view the ceremonial aprons and to watch a video of the 275th anniversary gathering of the Freemasons, held at the Royal Albert Hall in 1986.

Assistant secretary Barry Rackham, said: "We've had a good turnout of 60 people and they are all very interested in what goes on here.

"We're always looking for new members but that is not the purpose today. Today is more about raising awareness rather than recruiting, but we have had three people wishing to join".

There are 1,200 members of the Freemasons in Ipswich who attend 18 different lodges. Across the country there are thought to be 3,200 members.

Any man over 21 can join the masons providing he has some kind of religious affiliation.

Although to join the group, the man must have consent of his wife or partner as the masons strongly encourage family unity.

The current Grandmaster of the Freemasons is the Duke of Kent and famous past and present members include Jim Davidson, Stanley Matthews, Winston Churchill and Walt Disney.

WEBLINK:

www.suffolkfreemason.org.uk