Assistant Provincial Grand Master Awarded British Empire Medal
Described as an “inspirational West Cumbrian” W.Bro.Bill Morley, PSGD, Assistant Provincial Grand Master for the Province of Cumberland and Westmorland, has been awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.
W.Bro. Morley rescued the Cleator Moor Civic Hall from closure in 1997 and has seen it grow into a thriving community hub and Masonic Hall, through the hall, Bill has helped raise tens of thousands of pounds for local charities as well as a great deal of money which has been re-invested in the hall.
Bill and his family have kept the honours news secret for six weeks, he said, “I was absolutely stunned to have been selected, I always just wanted to help people and make a difference but never expected anything like this”.
The honours list states, “his leadership and generosity has inspired many within the community, particularly through his work with the towns Civic Hall”. “The hall is a vital resource for such a small rural community”.
As chairman of the centre, Bill has seen the hall used daily by the NHS, local businesses, community groups and various committees of local councils but it is the charity work he is most proud of. “Every Christmas I give up my day to help run a Christmas dinner event for those who don’t have anybody to share it with”. “We also hold an annual trip for the Children of Chernobyl charity, which is an incredible experience for those who come over”.
The hall helps to benefit young and old with groups meeting at the hall ranging from the Phoenix Youth Project to the University of the Third Age.
Speaking to the local press, Bill said, “the Freemasons are a big part of my life, and if other organisations were a bit more like the masons, the world would be a better place. The biggest part of my life has always been my family but if you can make a difference to help others then that is all that matters”.
The honours list goes on to say, “Mr.Morley’s passion and community spirit is inspirational to all those in Cleator Moor and has given the town a new lease of life. Whether it is a concert, a keep fit class or a market the hall caters for all those living in the town, none of this would be possible without his care for others and his attitude to go above and beyond to help as many people as he can”.
Submitted on 14th June 2016 by W.Bro. Peter Clark