To achieve 50 years in a Craft Lodge is remarkable; to reach that same milestone in the Royal Arch Freemasonry is extremely rare, especially when those she is have been filled with such tireless work and responsibility.
It was, therefore, a true privilege for the many Companions from right across East Lancashire and beyond to witness yet another Masonic Golden Jubilee for Excellent Companion James “Jim” Sutcliffe, PGStD.
To accommodate the high attendance, Padiham Masonic Hall kindly hosted Abbey Chapter on the evening of the 19 February 2026, ensuring that everyone who wanted to, could properly acknowledge and celebrate Jim’s extraordinary service.
The Scribe E., Excellent Companion David Tyman, read the minutes of the Abbey Chapter meeting from 50 years ago when Excellent Companion Sutcliffe was Exalted into the Royal Arch. Excellent Companion Graeme Wilkinson then gave a personal tribute to Excellent Companion Sutcliffe, “Jim”.
Excellent Companion Anthony Freemont, 2nd Provincial Grand Principal representing the Provincial Grand Superintendent then read aloud a letter from the Provincial Grand Superintendent to Excellent Companion Sutcliffe before presenting him with an illuminated scroll marking this auspicious occasion (see image above).
The images accompanying this short tribute show how many Companions wanted to be present to witness the happy and harmonious Chapter workings and congratulate Excellent Companion Sutcliffe on his personal achievement.
