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60 Years and still going. Must be the Haggis!

Alan Melrose receives a 60th Year Certificate, for continuous service in Freemasonry.

The Life of Alan Smellie Melrose

The Journey of Allan Smellie Melrose: A Life Rich with Experience and Dedication

Allan Smellie Melrose, affectionately pronounced “Smiley,” hails from the town of Motherwell, his story begins on a momentous day—May 10, 1941. The same day Rudolf Hess made his dramatic landing in the Scotland and Parliament faced a bomb attack.

Childhood Adventures

Allan’s earliest memory is a dramatic one, involving an unfortunate encounter with an army truck. However, the family soon found solace as the war prompted a relocation to a charming village at Carstairs. This new setting, with its expansive village green and endless fields, allowed Allan and his siblings to roam freely—much to the relief of their parents.

His early education took place at a local village school, where he was fortunate to encounter excellent teachers and a cook who made school days delicious. He then moved on to Lanark Grammar School and later Coatbridge Technical College. Among the highlights of his secondary education was a beloved gym teacher nicknamed “Mr. Wong.” Rather than spending time in the gym, Mr. Wong took the class to the swimming baths, where Allan and his peers honed their lifesaving skills, culminating in numerous awards, including bronze, silver, and gold medals. The emotional moment when Mr. Wong received a prestigious European trophy for their swimming club’s achievements remains etched in Allan’s memory.

Career Beginnings

Upon completing his apprenticeship at British Steel’s Dalzell Works, Allan’s career quickly flourished. He was promoted to charge-hand within two years, and just two years later, he assumed a foreman role. However, with the steel industry in decline in Glasgow, a shift was on the horizon. An opportunity arose when a manager invited him to join him at Sheerness Steel. With little knowledge of the area, Allan discussed the move with his wife and promptly accepted the challenge, starting anew on January 1, 1972.

Over the next 13 years, Allan served as a Maintenance General Foreman before transitioning into training—a move that sparked an entirely new adventure. He played a pivotal role in developing the first National Vocational Qualifications (N.V.Q.s) in the steel industry, which led to the creation of a training department and, eventually, an external training company specializing in hydraulics, pneumatics, and engineering principles. Married in March 1964 to Rena, Allan and Rena were blessed with two children, Pauline and John.

A Rich Masonic Life

Allan’s journey through life has been intertwined with Freemasonry. He was initiated into freemasonry on October 1, 1964, and quickly progressed through the ranks, being initiated on the 1st October 1964, Passed on the 15th and Raised on the 29th, all three degrees in one month!
From 1965 to 1971, Alan moved up the line of Stewards, reaching number 7 from number 15. 

Finding himself in leadership positions shortly after. He fondly recalls his time as Master of Adam’s Lodge in 1993, a year marked by both challenges and triumphs, including a memorable ceremony involving two candidates who fainted but ultimately revived to complete the ritual.

Tragedy struck in 1997 with the passing of his beloved wife, Rena. The support of the Masonic community during this trying time proved invaluable, and eventually led to his meeting Maureen, who would become a vital part of his life and Masonic journey. Their bond grew as they navigated life together, with Maureen actively participating in Allan’s Masonic activities. They have two sons together. Maureen accompanied Alan to all of his Almoners duties, which made the office a pleasure to undertake. 

 

Community Contributions

Beyond Freemasonry, Allan and Maureen became active members of their community, engaging in indoor bowling and joining a local bowling group. Allan’s leadership skills shone when he was invited to run the Eastchurch Village Hall, a role he embraced with enthusiasm. Together with Maureen as treasurer, they revitalized the hall, ensuring it became a thriving community hub.

After more than a decade of service, Allan stepped down as secretary, leaving behind a flourishing institution that stands as a testament to his commitment and hard work.

A Life of Service and Achievement

Allan’s Masonic resume reflects a lifetime of dedication and achievement, from being a Life Member of St. Mary No. 31 to holding esteemed positions within Adam’s Lodge and various other Masonic bodies. He embodies a spirit of service and leadership that has left an indelible mark on both his community and the Freemasonic fraternity.

As Allan looks back on his remarkable journey—one characterized by resilience, opportunity, and the bonds of friendship—his story serves as an inspiring reminder of the impact one individual can have through dedication, community involvement, and a willingness to embrace life’s adventures.

Picture of Alan
Alan in hisa Scottish Regalia
Alan in his East Kent Regalia, UGLE
Piping in the Haggis

MASONIC CV

Alans Masonic Resume is extensive, highlighting his career from Scotland to East Kent.

Life Member of St. Mary No. 31, (Scottish Constitution) Craft and Mark.  Only cost £5.00

Joining Member Adam’s Lodge 1978, Master 1993

Director of Ceremonies  1998-2003;   Almoner  2004 -2013;  Asst Secretary  2003 and 2014- 2024;  Assistant Director of Ceremonies  2023-2

Current East Kent Provincial Rank PPJGW (Past Provincial Junior Grand Warden)

Adam’s Lodge Nominated Trustee of the Sheerness Masonic Club 1995-2010

First Director of Ceremonies of the “ Sheerness Dutch Degree Demonstration Group

Adam’s Chapter Past 1st Principle PZ & Provincial Rank Royal Arch

Royal Ark Mariner – Provincial Rank

Red Cross of Constantine, Grand Rank, Div. S. General

Rose Croix, 31st Degree.

Royal Order of Scotland;  Past Assistant  Provincial Grand Master

Kinghts Templar Provincial Rank.

Click the images to enlarge them. 

Join Our Province

Discover the heart of Freemasonry at our annual provincial craft meeting in Kent. This event brought together over 600 brethren, celebrating our rich traditions and shared values. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with us.

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