If you ever attend a Masonic meeting in Ryton you will probably hear the name Alan Chapman. You may not personally know Alan but in any of the Lodges within the Town his name is often mentioned by those who know him and always mentioned by those who have just met him. That is because he is a stalwart supporter of Freemasonry and continues to enjoy it with a passion and pride that is as inspiring to newer members as it is respected by the more established brethren, but simply as a man he is also one of the friendliest and welcoming persons you could ever hope to meet. Ryton Holy Cross has benefitted greatly by his presence.
In true testament of his warm and friendly manner, Alan and John Watts APGM, who was present to personally deliver a Certificate on behalf of the Provincial Grand Master, Norman Eric Heaviside, sat quietly for a good half hour or so prior to the meeting commencing, chatting about times gone by how Alan had enjoyed his time as a Freemason before the brethren assembled in the lodge room to witness the presentation of the certificate and also to hear John deliver an impassioned speech about Freemasonry in the Community and the recent initiative not only in the Province of Durham but also within Freemasonry in general. John spoke about the invaluable support and guidance that esteemed members like Alan has shown to many brethren over the years, particularly newer members and also how action plans and directives were being created to take Freemasonry forward. This was acknowledged by everyone in attendance and as Alan made a brief but emotional response to his own presentation he also thanked John for keeping the brethren up to date with current events. However, John was left speechless when Alan turned the tables and presented him with a personal donation to Durham Benevolence and the 2021 Festival. A truly well-deserved round of applause rang out as everyone showed their respect and love to Alan and stood to express their good wishes.
The evening was to be one of many events. John went on to pay appreciation and thanks to his Provincial Assistant Director of Ceremonies, Derek Wake for the support and friendship he had experienced whenever he was on masonic duties as this was the final official masonic duty of the year prior to the Provincial meeting and the installation of the new Acting Officers. John also introduced the brethren to Mavin MaCauley, a member of the lodge who has been appointed as Membership officer for the North Area. He explained that he was to be part of a new team of brethren who were looking at membership levels and various initiative regarding recruitment and retention.
After the formalities and lodge duties were concluded the Worshipful Master and his Officers welcomed the brethren to the festive board, accompanied by two non-masonic guests, Karl Brown and Paul Richardson from the Ryton and District Angling Club who were present to receive a donation of £500 toward improving the facilities of the club. Both guests also congratulated Alan and thanked the lodge for such a generous donation and thanked everyone for what they described as a “Wonderful Masonic experience”.
Alan Lawrence Chapman was initiated into Freemasonry on 8th June 1966 and after supporting the Lodge in various roles he became Master in 1976. He was also Master of Clavering Lodge in 1997 and took the chair of Ryton Holy Cross Chapter in 1983. His hard work and dedication to the Craft was rewarded in 1985 when he received the appointment of Past Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies and in 1996 when he was promoted to Past Provincial Grand Sword Bearer in 1996 and in 1989 he also received Provincial Honours in the Royal Arch Chapter has ProvGSN.
Alan has also served Freemasonry by playing the organ at many Lodges throughout the Province and is a member of the Royal College. For many years Alan worked in the drawing office at Parsons and has been married to his wife Barbara for 64 years. He has two sons, Colin and Peter, both of whom were members of Clavering Lodge and were initiated, passed and raised in between 1997 and 1998. Colin now resides in Southern Australia and sent his personal congratulations to his Father, which was read out in open Lodge to Alan on his behalf.
Alan Chapman is a good man, a friendly man, and without doubt is certainly a good and friendly Mason. Many congratulations Alan.