I was initiated into Freemasonry while living and working in Francistown, Botswana. As there was only one Lodge in Francistown, which fell under the Scottish Constitution, I perforce became a Scottish Mason. 

After passing through the ranks, I was Installed as W.M. in 2001. Soon after that, I relocated to Kasane, a border town, where I was badly hurt when attacked by a crocodile. The fellowship of Freemasonry was graphically illustrated when, after my wife and I had been cas-evacted to hospital, another Mason, from a different constitution, stood guarantor for all expenses. 

Botswana was an interesting place, as there were four constitutions represented at various Lodges – Scottish, English, Irish and Nederlandic: this made visiting extremely worthwhile, as the differences in ritual and approach were fascinating: just as well, since such visits involved much travelling, the nearest Lodge to Francistown being 200 kilometres away and the furthest nearly 500 kilometres.

 After recovering somewhat from the croc-inflicted injuries, we continued working in Kasane for two years, during which I served a second term as WM of the Francistown Lodge, travelling over 250 kilometres to hold a meeting. Eventually the toll of the injuries meant that we had to quit Botswana and return to England, where my brother immediately enrolled me into Cinque Ports Lodge (ably abetted by Jake Jackson). After ten years at C.P., I resigned due to conflict with one of the members, and joined Rutupiae Lodge, where I served as Secretary until Rutupiae, sadly, folded. 

I rejoined Cinque Ports and was made welcome by the members, who extended me the honour of making me their W.M. Unfortunately, my health has made a big down-swing so that I have not been able to carry out my duties to my satisfaction, but the support I have received from the officers and members has been outstanding and heart-warming. I must also acknowledge the tremendous support I have receive from the MCF, who have supplied me with a stair lift, a conformable bed and an adjustable armchair. Freemasonry is universal, so is the support and friendship it offers.