A Half Century For Exmoor’s ‘Stormin’ Norman Ackland
On Thursday 20th September 2018, the Brethren of Minehead’s Exmoor Lodge No 2390 and their guests were present to celebrate the occasion of W.Bro Norman Ackland receiving his 50th Masonic Year Certificate from Deputy P.G.M. the V.W.Bro. John Winston.
The presentation of the
certificate was accompanied by a very erudite and witty precis of
Norman’s formative years and his introduction to Freemasonry in West
Somerset through the late W.Bro. Norman Coles of Quantock Lodge No 4446,
from whom advice to the Initiate included the statement ‘you’ll only
get out of it what you put in’!
Norman has certainly embraced that advice throughout his own busy Masonic journey.
Having been Master in Craft, Mark and RAM, Norman’s unerring commitment has seen him receive numerous past and active Provincial Honours in Craft and Mark. He now also holds Grand Rank in Royal Ark Mariners.
Having served as a Royal Marine for eight years from the age of 17, Norman then became a Somerset police officer until his retirement in 1986. He lives in Minehead with his wife Lee.
He is currently Lodge Chaplain at 2390 and remains actively interested and involved in supporting all aspects of Lodge life.
As
he put it ‘I have enjoyed my life as a Freemason, with all its ups and
downs. I would not change a thing and I hope I can continue to do so for
a few years yet’.
The Brethren sincerely hope so too Norman.
Bro. Andy Baird.
Lodge Information Officer.
Exmoor Lodge 2390.