Army v Navy Day at Twickenham

Saturday 2nd May saw the Middlesex Ambassador Team setting up camp at the ever-busy Army v Navy Day at Twickenham Stadium, based from the splendid surroundings of the Twickenham District Masonic Centre (TDMC).

Representing Middlesex on the day were Jim Owens from the regular Ambassador Team, ably supported by Terry Walters and Geoff Baker, both members of Shepperton Lodge No. 8611 – The Rugby Lodge of Middlesex. The team arrived bright and early to erect the gazebo and assemble the usual collection of banners, leaflets, tables and assorted “paraphernalia” that seems to multiply every time we do an event!

Despite weather forecasts promising glorious sunshine, Mother Nature treated us to a brief light shower during setup, just enough to keep us on our toes — but thankfully it passed quickly and the remainder of the day was blessed with very pleasant conditions.

As the crowds gathered for the big match, we enjoyed meeting and chatting with many fellow Freemasons from across the country. There was plenty of good-natured banter throughout the day, proving once again that Masonic friendship travels well wherever you go. One particular highlight was giving a guided tour of the magnificent main Temple to a group of Northamptonshire Masons, who were highly impressed by both the Temple itself and the excellent facilities at TDMC.

The event also provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the exciting new direction being taken by Shepperton Lodge. After several years of static membership numbers, the Brethren reflected on the fact that many members shared strong links with rugby, whether as players, coaches, former players or simply devoted supporters of the game. The idea was proposed that the Lodge should embrace this shared passion and become a Rugby-themed Lodge, attracting like-minded men who value both rugby fellowship and Freemasonry.

With the enthusiastic support of all members, the Lodge embarked upon the lengthy process of becoming a recognised Special Interest Lodge. The Brethren are particularly grateful to W. Bro. Warren Gell, PSGD, APGM and VW Bro. Jim Mitchell, PGSwdB, Deputy Provincial Grand Master for their invaluable guidance and encouragement throughout the process.

Permission was formally granted by United Grand Lodge of England and RW Bro. David Allan, Pro Provincial Grand Master on 10th April 2025, during the Lodge’s 50th Anniversary Meeting held at Cole Court, for the Lodge to become officially known as Shepperton Lodge No. 8611 – The Rugby Lodge of Middlesex, complete with its own newly designed Lodge crest.

The Lodge is proud to have a strong contingent of enthusiastic Light Blues and newer members. Recognising that enthusiasm sometimes benefits from experienced guidance, four experienced joining members were recruited to help mentor and support the growing Lodge.

Shepperton Lodge meets four times a year at Cole Court, with meetings embracing a rugby theme. In addition, the Lodge holds a thriving and well-attended Lodge of Instruction every Tuesday evening at Feltham Rugby Club. Any Brother wishing to attend a meeting, learn more about the Lodge, or simply enjoy a beer and good company at the Rugby Club, is warmly encouraged to contact Secretary W. Bro. Shaun Keen at shepperton8611@gmail.com.

Whilst we didn’t secure any immediate sign-ups on the day, our gazebo certainly occupied a prime position and attracted plenty of attention. Hopefully, one or two curious visitors may yet be inspired to look us up online once the excitement of the day had settled.

By mid-afternoon, as the final supporters drifted away from Twickenham, the team packed everything down with military efficiency and brought another successful Ambassador outing to a close.