Members of Lyn Lodge 3251, together with visiting brethren from across the Province, recently gathered in Linton for a very special occasion – to celebrate 50 years of commitment and service to Freemasonry by Worshipful Brother Eddie Dymond.
Freemasonry places great value on loyalty, and a 50-year certificate marks a significant milestone. To ensure the evening reflected the pride and affection felt for Eddie, the Master of the Lodge David Wilde opened the evening with a light hearted quiz. While many questions tested the Masonic knowledge of the assembled brethren, a number of playful questions featured answers which were “Eddie Dymond” himself!
The formal presentation started off with the Provincial Grand Secretary, Tony Jordan, reading the citation highlighting some of Eddie’s Masonic journey – much of which seemed to be highlighting his generosity of donating banners to the various units he has been part of over the years.
Eddie’s certificate commemorating his 50 years in Freemasonry was then presented by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Dr Richard Ebrey. Richard also offered Eddie a personal gift of one of the new Provincial Lodge Ties, as a token of the personal affection and respect Richard has for Eddie.
Following rapturous applause, Eddie gave an emotional response and thanked everybody present for travelling far and wide to be there that evening.
The Provincial Grand Secretary then rose again, and surprised all present with a further citation, this time highlighting the ongoing and steadfast service of the IPM, John Rice. John is an active member of 3 craft lodge in North Devon (Lyn; West Buckland School; Lodge of Good Intention) and had only in May 2024 received his own certificate of service celebrating his 50 years in Freemasonry in his Mother Lodge, Lodge of Good Intention 6927 in Barnstaple. This presentation was a special acknowledgement from the Provincial Grand Master of his dedication and support of Freemasonry. Once Again, Dr Richard Ebrey presented the certificate and again gave a personal gift of a new Provincial Tie.
The gathering was also supported by Charles Yelland and Timothy Golder, both Assistant Provincial Grand Masters of Devonshire, along with another 45 brethren from across the Province and our neighbouring province of Somerset.
The atmosphere throughout the evening was warm, cheerful, and filled with camaraderie – a true reflection of the values which underpin Freemasonry.
The Provincial Grand Master, and the wider Province, extend heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Eddie and John for the example they set for others.
