A service was held at St Albans Abbey to mark 300 years of freemasonry in England.
More than 450 masons, in full regalia, gathered with their families for the thanksgiving celebration on Sunday, June 18.
The service was attended by the Dean of St Albans, the Very Reverend Jeffrey John, the Bishop of Hertford Reverend Dr Michael Beasley, the provincial grand master of Hertfordshire Paul Gower and Sir David Hugh Wootton, assistant grand master of the United Grand Lodge of England and former Mayor of London.
Former Mayor of St Albans Cllr Annie Brewster also attended.
Deputy provincial grand master David Ferris said: “The liaison and cooperation between the Abbey and Hertfordshire Freemasons are well established, with masons assisting at various Cathedral events, particularly the Annual Pilgrimage in June.
“Freemasons contribute over £33million a year as one of the UK’s largest charitable givers. Raising funds largely through voluntary donations by Freemasons, they help support individual members and families, local communities and global emergencies.”
The Provincial Grand Lodge of Hertfordshire is based in Porters Wood, St Albans.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here