FREEMASONS from Barnsley and Penistone reinforced their growing links with the community when the Mayor of Barnsley attended a post-meeting meal.
John Clarke stopped off at Bretton Priory Lodge at Cockerham Masonic Hall on Monday.
The Barnsley and Penistone Masonic Association extended the invitation to Coun Clarke as part of the movement’s commitment to engage with the community and it is hoped that this first step will lead to a growing relationship with the body.
President Eric Bowring said: “Our intention is to foster a closer relationship with Barnsley Council, and we were delighted that Coun Clarke was able to accept our invitation.
“Contributing to the community is an important part of being a Freemason.
“We hope that by having the Mayor of Barnsley join our members for a social occasion that we will establish a link that will eventually prove to be of real benefit to our community.
“We’re looking forward to sharing more activities with Barnsley Council as time goes by.”
Coun Clarke added: “I was so pleased to hear that the Freemasons from this area have committed to the community of Barnsley, and I look forward to working alongside them.
“People don’t realise that this is a social, charitable and philanthropic organisation and I’m sure that the people of Barnsley are not aware of the wonderful works of both Bretton Priory Lodge and the Barnsley and Penistone Masonic Association.
“I am so pleased that we have been able to establish the relationship with Freemasonry during my mayoral year and I trust it will develop further in the coming years.”
