Acorn Lodge Celebrates 50 Years of Freemasonry for W.Bro Alan Newton!

Members of Acorn Lodge, together with distinguished guests, gathered on Thursday 22nd January 2026 to celebrate a significant milestone: the 50th anniversary of W.Bro Alan Newton’s initiation into Freemasonry.

The special meeting marked half a century of Alan’s service to the Craft and was attended by W.Bro Anthony Shepherd, Metropolitan Grand Inspector, accompanied by his Director of Ceremonies, W.Bro Peter Kersley, and two Metropolitan Grand Stewards.

During the meeting, W.Bro Anthony Shepherd presented W.Bro Alan Newton with a certificate from Metropolitan Grand Lodge in recognition of his 50 years of service to Freemasonry. The presentation was warmly received by members and guests, reflecting the respect Alan has earned over many years.

The well-attended meeting included a rehearsal of the Third Degree conducted by W.Bro Alan Newton and the Walking Charge delivered by the Senior Warden, Bro. Mark Godfrey.

W.Bro Anthony Shepherd also delivered an address recounting Alan’s 50 years in Freemasonry, congratulating him on his dedication and contribution to both the Craft and the Royal Arch.

Alan’s Masonic journey has included membership of Acorn Lodge and Middleton Manor Lodge in Sittingbourne, as well as a Royal Arch Chapter in London. Throughout his Masonic career he has undertaken many offices, most notably serving as Treasurer in both Lodges and his Chapter.

Presenting the certificate, W.Bro Anthony Shepherd said:“ I am very pleased and proud to present Alan with his certificate of 50 years of service to Freemasonry.”

Those present celebrated not only the length of Alan’s service but also the spirit in which it has been given. Achieving 50 years in Freemasonry is a rare milestone, representing a lifetime of dedication, knowledge, and service.

For Acorn Lodge, the celebration of W.Bro Alan Newton’s Golden Jubilee was both a tribute to his remarkable journey and a reminder of the enduring values of friendship, charity, and commitment that lie at the heart of Freemasonry.