United Grand Lodge
of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons
of England


 
Province of
South Wales Eastern Division

News
Report

Bargoed MH  formally reopens  after major renovation project Bargoed Masonic Hall has undergone major works both internally and externally during the summer break.	Bargoed's Masonic Hall
The building, which was previously Trinity Chapel, in Cardiff Road has been the home of Bargoed Masons for 56 years. The work was completed, despite a very tight schedule, in time for the official opening on Friday 6th September 2002. Most of the cost was raised by the masons themselves, and indeed they did much of the work themselves. They are however grateful for the co-operation and financial assistance from Caerphilly County Borough Council and the Welsh Development Agency. Brian Eveleigh, a senior Bargoed mason said that the project was, "a model for community partnership. It shows how to regenerate old buildings and breathe new life into old communities."  The luxuriously furnished and carpeted function suite in the hall is not intended for the exclusive use of freemasons. "This has been a partnership between local Freemasons and the Council because we are on a gateway site to the re-generation area," said Brian Eveleigh. "It means that we now have a modern facility that will allow us to give a service to the community." The Provincial Grand Master opening the facilities,  in the presence of Cllr & Mrs Viney The hall was full to capacity for the formal re-opening ceremony, conducted by Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro Hywel Davies. The ceremony was attended by Freemasons from all over the Province, and also by representatives of the local community. The Chairman of Caerphilly County Borough Council, Councillior Kevin Viney, accompanied by wife Marian, led the local delegation. In his address he said, "You are to be congratulated. Your work both on the outside and the inside of this old building has made a tremendous difference to the locality. I hope you will enjoy long and successful use of the building." The Provincial Grand Master made reference to the universal nature of Freemasonry and that it was open to all men of good character. He emphasised the charitable nature of the fraternity giving examples of donations made to communities affected by Foot & Mouth disease and the relatives of those who lost their lives in the World Trade Centre.  He commended those responsible for the management of the premises for the excellent relationship that had been built up with the local community. He went on to congratulate Brian Eveleigh, Vic Watkins and Phil Matthews who had led the regeneration efforts of the two Lodges using the premises. He stressed the fact that these facilities would be enjoyed not just by Bargoed's Masons, but by many other people in the area. The opening ceremony was concluded with the cutting of cakes, speedily followed by a superb buffet lunch enjoyed by all. The proceedings were graced by the melodious sounds of a Welsh harp, and in true masonic spirit the harpist had decided to donate the fee received to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.  Harry Andrews, a local councillor for 30 years and a worshiper at Trinity Chapel in his youth was highly impressed by the refurbishment of the old building. "It shows tremendous enterprise and initiative on the part of the local Lodges," he said. "It is going to be highly popular with many organisations in the town who would like to take advantage of what is now a top-class facility. It will have a huge part to play in the cultural social and voluntary areas of development in Bargoed."