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freemen THE NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

MAGAZINE

4
E
08
M SU
20
IS
AY
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The Coat of Arms of the

City of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne

Front Cover Town Moor looking towards the

City of Newcastle upon Tyne
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freemen
THE NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

MAGAZINE

Foreword
Each year brings something of a fresh
challenge for the Freemen of Newcastle
and 2008 is no exception.
Town Moor Act
l988. In this regard,

20 4
08
AY E
M SU
Newcastle City

IS
Council have a duty
of care in relation to
our affairs and I am
pleased to say they
are very much
committed to
supporting this
Contents
objective. We are Editorial 4
not an organisation
Stewards Committee report 5-10
that is prepared to
compromise Notice Board 11
For more than long inheritance and Being Lord Mayor 12
enough we have responsibility in all
that we do, but do Lord Mayor Easter Guild 13
looked to others
from a national readily acknowledge Christmas and Easter Guilds 14
perspective to change is inevitable
if we are to move Companies of Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne 15
facilitate the
opportunity of forward as we have Town Moor Money Charity 16
ensuring the rights done so successfully
throughout the Guild Hall Merchants Court 17
of the Freelage and
all this entails is centuries. It is our Freemen’s Bungalows 18
extended to women intention to promote
Freemen of England and Wales 19
and thereby ‘Lady opportunities over
Freemen’. Alas the coming months. Thomas Davison & Sir Thomas White 20
expectations have Freemen who carved a name for himself 21
not come to fruition In addition to the
above, it is business Diary Dates 22
hence the time is
right for Newcastle as usual. We look Contacts 23
to seize the moment forward to a
and ‘modernise’ successful Hoppings,
accordingly. That effective grazing Magazine Co-Editors:
said this is not a season and ongoing Jim Johnson-Tanners Company, Stewards Commitee.
simple task because environmental Alan Robson-Bakers & Brewers Company, Gild of
when introducing improvements.
Freemen Hon. Treasurer.
change we need to
be mindful to As ever, feedback
and comments The Newcastle upon Tyne
protect longstanding
welcomed. Freemen Magazine
and proven
governance so much Moor Bank Lodge
of which is enshrined L R Fenwick CBE Claremont Road
in the legislation laid Chairman, Stewards Newcastle upon Tyne
down by of the Committee NE2 4NL
E-mail freemenmagazine@tiscali.co.uk

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FREEMAN ISSUE 5 MAY rework9 18/5/08
Editorial Team
We are pleased to report that the world-
wide distribution of our magazine is now
extended beyond the Freemen of
Newcastle upon Tyne and their
dependents, and is being exceptionally
well received. The Stewards’ Committee
requested the Editorial Team to give due
consideration to the content to maintain
and develop the interest of the overall
readership. This we are doing.
In addition to the many comments and
welcome feedback, we do continue to
receive magazines returned marked
”Gone away - address unknown.” If you
are moving house, do not forget to write
to the office at Moor Bank Lodge
(address on the inside rear cover) to let
us know your of your current
whereabouts. It is equally important to
advise of the death of a Freeman. In such
cases future magazines can be re-
addressed to the widow and dependents.
The Freemen of Newcastle and the
Stewards’ Committee in particular remain
very active on many fronts. In this edition
we particularly highlight the charities
“ The Freemen of Newcastle and the
Stewards Committee in particular
remain very active on many fronts
4 FREEMEN MAGAZINE
14:59 Page 4
administered by the City Council to assist
young Freemen setting up in business.
It is also reported that the Stewards’
Committee are with the assistance of the
City Council to refresh the momentum to
bring about the introduction of Lady
Freemen.
As this magazine is published bi-annually
we regret not being able to publish
information or application forms in a
timely manner for events organised by
our Gild of Freemen. If you reside in the
vicinity of the North East, and would like
to be sure that you have the opportunity
of participating in Gild organised
activities, may we suggest you become a
member of the Gild of Freemen. Do not
hesitate to make contact with the Hon.
Treasurer for an application form - his
details are on the inner rear cover.
Keep on sending your comments,
contributions and ideas. It is your interest
in the magazine that sustains enthusiasm.
Editorial Team
“
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New Gator
We have taken delivery of a
‘Gator’, this specialist vehicle
will be deployed on all Moors
and shall give greater flexibility
and effectiveness in dealing
with day to day operational
requirements including out of
hours emergency call outs
which at times can be rather
frequent.As a spend to save
initiative coupled with reducing
the environmental impact it is
envisaged the cost of the
vehicle will also be offset by
savings made in time
and fuel.
New work-wear has been
issued to our staff, bearing the
Freemen’s coat of arms and
their names, the new Gator
and our Tractors have been
liveried so they will be easily
recognised as Freemen of
Newcastle vehicles.

Moor Bank Lodge – Investment Programme

In preparation for the major
improvements planned to the external
agricultural infrastructure at Moor Bank
Lodge new cattle pens are to be installed
on Hunters Moor. This shall enable cattle
to be decanted via Hunters Road.
Enhanced security measures, including
electronic surveillance are to be installed
at the Moor Bank yard.
to accommodate the range of plant and
equipment is envisaged to be constructed
later this year. It is to be noted planning
permission is required. A capital
expenditure will be in the region of
£130,000.

The existing agricultural outbuildings are

no longer suitable hence a new building

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TOWN MOOR FOOTPATH CASTLE LEAZES FOOTPATH

THE GOOD THE BAD

Town Moor Joint

Working Group
We continue to meet with City Officers and Councillors to address issues
concerning the Town Moor and environs.

Matters of particular
note:
Anti-social behaviour
Is an ongoing problem, with
wilful damage, being directly
related to alcohol and drug
related behaviour having been
highlighted. As the summer
months beckon it is anticipated
the return of the problems
encountered over the past two
years. There is also a significant
nuisance factor by motorcycles
particularly over the weekends
on Nuns Moor North which is
of concern. Police involvement
is essential but the overall issue
is proving to be highly
problematical and shall not be
easily resolved. The matter has
been raised by the Chief
Executive of the City Council
with the Chief Constable and
combined with the pressure by
our staff constantly reporting
incidents as a crime we are
hopeful of some improvement.
Of note when going to press
there was an incident on Nuns
Moor where paint was spayed
into a cows face, the Police
were able to secure the arrest
of four youths (two on
motorcycles) who have been
bailed pending investigation.
This incident of mindless
behaviour on defenceless
animals is of particular concern,
thankfully we are able to report
the animal has fully recovered.
Footpaths
The condition of the Castle
Leazes footpaths have been
highlighted and require urgent
attention. The City Council
have indicated consideration is
being given to the issue.

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Hoppings 2008 environmental impact and Initial engagement with

Consideration was given as to
whether or not the event
should go ahead following the
excessive damage arising out of
the extremely adverse weather
in 2007. In essence to enable
full recovery and benefit from
an extensive reinstatement
programme, a year without the
event beckoned. The decision
has been reached to progress
with the letting but also to
begin to facilitate change to
more effectively deal with the
changing dimensions of the
travelling fairground industry.
The City Council and the
Stewards Committee are of
common purpose and
understanding on what needs
to be done from the
perspective of
(i) event management
(ii) communications and
respective organisation role and
responsibilities and (iii) financial
considerations.
Showmen has been
encouraging. The inherent
rights and traditions of the
Showmen’s Guild of Great
Britain does however pose a
complex set of issues but the
recognition that fundamental
change is unavoidable to secure
the long term viability of the
event is acknowledged.
The Hoppings will be open to
the public from Friday 20th
June 2008 until Saturday 29th
June 2008.

Armistice Sunday 2007

The Stewards Committee were pleased to accept and
invitation by the Lord Mayor to join the Civic Party at
the Remembrance Day parade. Members of the
Stewards Committee joined the official party in
procession from the Civic Centre to the refurbished
Renwick Memorial for the service of remembrance, part
of the service included the laying of a wreath at the
Memorial on behalf of the Freemen of Newcastle by
our Chairman Len Fenwick. Following the service the
Lord Mayor and Party proceeded to the Saluting Dais
where the Parade of various regiments and services
marched passed; the Lord Lieutenant taking the Salute.
The Lord Mayor spoke of how delighted he was to
reinstate the lost tradition of attendance by Freemen at
the parade.

Back row from left Alan Bainbridge, Len Fenwick, Bill It is now added to the Stewards Committee annual
Frizzle, Jim Johnson, Bottom row Keith Hall, David Wilson
calendar.

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Hoppings Site
The condition of the Hoppings site is of inclement weather coupled with the intensity
concern having not fully recovered from the of modern plant and equipment in the
2007 event, it may look fine on the surface travelling Fairground industry is an issue for
but there is very little root structure and the an area where reasonable hard standing can
fear is the sward will easily churn up if the never be guaranteed, yet part of the fun and
weather is less than optimal. character of the UK Fairground is the
environment and atmosphere.
To alleviate the damage caused by heavy
goods vehicles during pulling on and off the The Showmen’s Guild, City Council,
site, we have enhanced the service roads. ourselves and the public have their fingers
crossed this year.
Regretfully active grazing of the Hoppings
site has been suspended this year , a loss of
more than 50 acres the intention is to give
the grass the best possible growth period
prior to the Fairground people pulling on.
We currently have an ongoing programme of
assessing and improving with new and
reinstatement works the drainage of the site.
Several problem areas have been identified.
Some areas of drainage do of course date
back to the 19th Century and recent years of

‘Elizabethan’ Metal Fences

The planned phased replacement of the timber
fence line with the Elizabethan metal fence
continues on the Nuns Moor perimeter to the
north of Fenham Hall Drive and the Ponteland
Road junction. This area is one of high visual
impact the photograph demonstrates the
enormity of the task we are undertaking!.
Local community response has been
overwhelmingly in favour of this type of fence,
although one or two do say they prefer the
timber ranch style look. The decision as to
the suitability of the type of replacement
will continue to be taken Moor by Moor
basis and in further consultation with all
interested parties.

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Web Site re-launch
The web site had served us
well, but to keep up with
technological advances the
decision was taken to revamp
the site and bring it into the
21st Century.
During a recent visit to India
our Chairman was shown how
information technology was so
readily accessed with his hosts
proudly displaying this
magazine via our web site,
demonstrating the ease which
the World Wide Web is
utilised hence making us so
mindful of the importance of
having a website the Freemen
can be proud of.
David Hughes a Steward of
the Coopers Company offered
his expertise in web design
through his company
‘Infection Media’, On receipt
of the initial brief David set
News from the Town Moor Superintendent
As the winter came across the Moors the staff
assisted the graziers to decant more than
550cattle to winter holdings. Whilst we endured
one of wettest summers in living memory the
graziers have reflected upon the grazing season
as a success. The animals flourished on the Moors
and the pasture stood well for what is the
overriding purpose of the open space.
From left to right David Holland, Kevin Batey, Billy Harland
18/5/08 14:59 Page 9
about redesigning the original
site, and at Easter Guild he
was able to demonstrate and
gave Stewards the
opportunity to view the
finished product which was
received enthusiastically
with many positive
comments.
We believe we now have a
vibrant, informative, and
flexible user friendly site,
which can deliver up to date
information not just locally but
world wide.
The result can be viewed at
www.freemenofnewcastle.org
as ever feedback welcomed.
David Hughes,
e-mail: infectionmedia@
infectionmusic.com,
web site:
www.infectionmedia.co.uk
Oddly enough the weather has been kind in
respect of our Winter Works and environmental
improvement programme. It is heartening to
receive so many supportive and kind comments.
During February and March the main tasks for
the Staff were to carry out necessary fencing
repairs to the boundary fence lines, also clean out
and repair all water troughs, clear all rubbish from
the Moors in readiness for the cattle returning to
graze from the beginning of April.As we go to
print it is all hands on deck to address the
challenge of preparing the Hoppings (Town Moor
Festival) site.
My concerns do however primarily concern the
minority of people who show scant respect for
the environment and the animals. In reality this is
becoming our major challenge and the staff are
determined to do all that they can in this respect.
We shall in our endeavours need the continuing
help of our local communities and enforcement
agencies in this task.
Kevin Batey
Town Moor Superintendent.
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Disenfranchised Freemen
– Non-Company Keepers
Subsequent to the debate clear and most
unequivocal direction expressed at Guild,
a ‘watch and wait’ approach has been taken.
In essence , this is not about ‘Closed
Companies’ becoming ‘open’ but simply that
in modern times, those Freemen who can
claim to hail through a respective Company via
prime documentary evidence i.e. possession of
an Oath paper and lineage on the Roll, do
need to be accepted for admission as a
Company Keeper.
It is acknowledged that neither Guild nor the
Stewards Committee can give an overriding
direction on such matters hence only prevail
upon any Company to operate within the spirit
of equity and justice on such matters.
It is clear the current situation is something of
an anachronism hence the sense of
consternation spoken by the overwhelming
majority of Stewards and the determination of
all forward thinking Freemen to ensure the
institution as a whole is progressive and
influential whilst ensuring the long founded
traditions and fundamental values of equity
and commitment to all that we do in
Newcastle upon Tyne.

Snuff Box
During the reorganisation at Moor Bank
Lodge one of the many interesting artifacts to
be uncovered is an antique Snuff box which
gives an interesting insight into life in the late
19th century. Silver Snuff box Made in 1892.
Gilt inside and engraved with the following:-

Ye Box of Ye Incorporated Companies of the

Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne
Chairman, Jno.D.Walker 1891 to 1923.
J.R.Andrews 1923: Vice Chairman, Faraday
Spence 1891 – 96. Henry Robson 1897 – 02
John S.Smirk 1902 – 21. Robert Robson 1921
– 23 .C.S.Errington 1923 – 35. W.Story 1935 -
The use of the box appears to have stopped
suddenly as it still contains a quantity of Snuff,
perhaps due to the onset of the 2nd world
war. Ps; the present Committee declined the
offer to take a take a pinch!

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Photographs
at Guild
Photographer Steve Brock is to bring
printing equipment to the Guilds
enabling instant printing of photographs
he takes at the swearing in ceremony. taken, just have a word with Steve on
New Freemen and their families can the day and he will accommodate.
have photographs taken, and receive
them on the day. Anyone attending Photographs will be available in 8”x 6”
Open Guild may have photographs prints priced at £6.50 each.

Few
Representative
Notice Board
ments
Company Announce
Steward Change

Smiths Company
eward.
D.Melville, Head St

Bereavements Alan Bainbridge, Goldsmith and

member of the Stewards

Plumbers Company Committee has taken on the

responsibility as the Newcastle
James Anderson. Freemen representative for the
Freemen of England and Wales
mpany
House Carpenters Co
Association FEW. Alan a
Stewards Committee member for
William Sample. some six years is also a Trustee of
the Mary Magdalene and Holy
House
Freemen of Trinity
Jesus Trust, has gained a wealth
of experience in the affairs of the
Lesley Taylor Freemen which shall prove to be
invaluable in addressing issues
from a national perspective

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Being Lord Mayor

“ Now that I’m rapidly approaching the end
of my term as Lord Mayor, it is the right
time to look back.
The first and obvious comment
is that it is like no other job in
local government. You have to
be a councillor to do the job,
but you spend the year not
acting as a councillor. Yes, there
are casework issues to deal
with, but the ordinary round of
activities, such as attending
committee meetings and
campaigning politically, are
strictly off-limits. You quickly
lose touch with the realities of
council life unless you are
determined to keep in touch
with them.
Next, your time is not your
own.Your diary is controlled by
the staff in the Lord Mayor’s
Office, and even though you
can decide which events to go
to, a lot is decided by tradition
and precedent. I now have a
much better understanding of
what it must be like to be a
member of the royal family. As
Lord Mayor I always have to be
dressed smartly, I have to meet
a lot of new people almost
daily, I have to be careful what I
say, and I am conscious all the
while that I am the
representative of the whole city,
and must give a good
impression of Newcastle at all
times! It’s enough to try the
patience of a saint, let alone
someone with my background
and temperament!
As Lord Mayor I have met
people and been to places other
politicians don’t. That’s because
as the first citizen I am seen as
representing everyone, and
people and organisations are
keen to show you what they do
and how they contribute to the
life of the city. I’ve particularly
enjoyed meeting community
and voluntary groups, and
seeing the work that charities
do. I have been very impressed
by their passionate concern for
their small bit of our corporate
“
life. Without them, Newcastle
would be a much poorer place
in every sense of that word.
And then there have been the
traditional events, such as
Remembrance Sunday, the Gilds
of the Freemen, royal visits,
courtesy calls by foreign
ambassadors visiting the city,
and the captains of Royal Navy
ships, as well as a whole host of
other visitors from all over the
world. One thing I hadn’t
expected has been the number
of occasions when I’ve been
with the military. It’s been a
very humbling eye-opener into
a world I’ve not known a great
deal about, and I’m very
grateful for their patience and
their willingness to explain their
role and purpose in our local
and national life.
Finally, I’m realistic enough to
understand that the office of
Lord Mayor is without any real

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significance in terms of political power, but it
has real significance to a wide range of people
in the community. They enjoy a visit from the
Lord Mayor. It gives the seal of approval to
their activities, and there’s nothing like a bit of
pomp and ceremony to brighten up
someone’s day! It also shows the power of
tradition, something that marks Britain off as
different in our thoroughly modern world. Like
the Freemen, the Lord Mayor has lost a lot of
real power, but gained so much positive
influence instead. We may both be something
of a throwback to a former time, but the
opportunities available to us to do good in the
here and now remains undiminished.
I’m very proud to have had the opportunity to
be Lord Mayor of the City of Newcastle upon
Tyne upon Tyne. It’s given me much pleasure
to remind all of our visitors that our great city
is the centre of the known universe, and that
we Tynesiders are the canniest folk on earth!
Lord Mayor Peter Arnold

Easter Guild 2008

The Open Guild was presided over by the Lord Mayor Peter Arnold, assisted by City staff,
also in attendance James Bartle a student of Manor Park School who was shadowing Ian
Humphries, Manager, Lord Mayor’s Office as part of his work experience.

From left to right

Trevor Cartner, Mace Bearer. Ian Humphries, Manager, Lord Mayor’s Office.
The Right Worshipful Lord Mayor of Newcastle upon Tyne Cllr Peter Arnold.
Mrs Val Dodds, Head of Legal Services. Bill Bage, Lord Mayor’s Chauffeur/Butler.
James Bartle, Manor Park School. Patrick Tracey, Lord Mayor’s Chauffeur/Butler

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Christmas Guild
New Freemen sworn in at Christmas
Guild January 14th 2008
Craig, son of Kenneth Brett
– Ropemaker.
Graham Peregrine, son of Owen Richard
Oxnard – Cooper.

Apprenticeship Callings.
1st Calling,
Alexander James Spooner
Apprenticed to Capt John Lawrence
Fielding, Master Mariner.
(Freemen of Trinity House)
Simon Nicholas Harvey
Apprenticed to Capt John Lawrence
Fielding, Master Mariner.
(Freemen of Trinity House)

Easter Guild
New Freemen sworn in at Easter
Guild March 31st 2008
Robert Richard, son of Robert Richard
Atkinson (Snr) – Ropemaker.
Bryan, son of Robert Richard Atkinson
(Snr) – Ropemaker.
Nigel Julian, son of Clive Alwin Story
– Tanner.
Giles William, son of Clive Alwin Story
– Tanner.
Benjamin Stanley Roy, son of John
Rowland Lishman – Shipwright.

New Freemen sworn in at the Lord

Mayors Chamber Civic Centre

8th February 2008

Ian Anthony, son of John Michael
Andrews – Saddler.

28th April 2008 Guild photographs

Richard David, son of David William courtesy of Steve Brock Photography.
Marshall – Cordwainer. Tel 0191-2863430
Andrew Keir, son of David William Mobile 07932948245
Marshall – Cordwainer. email: steve@stevebrock.co.uk

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The Companies of
the Freemen of
Newcastle upon Tyne
2008
Throughout England, in the twelfth Companies known as
and thirteenth centuries, Freemen’s Mysteries,
companies proliferated in nearly all
Merchant Adventures. Skinners
principal towns. Some of the earlier
Glovers. Taylors. Bakers Brewers.
companies were referred to as
Tanners. Cordwainers. Saddlers.
Mysteries – the name being derived
Butchers. Smiths.
from the French word “mistiere” , in
modern French “métier” (a trade).
There were other companies called Companies known as
Bye-Trades. Bye-Trades.
Master Mariners (renamed ‘Freemen
The purpose of a Freemen’s Company of Trinity House’2007). Weavers.
(whatever its title) was to strictly Barber Surgeons. Shipwrights.
maintain the standards, quality and Coopers. House Carpenters. Masons.
control of their particular trade within Joiners. Millers. Curriers. Colliers.
the town. The Freemen of these Slaters & Tylers. Plumbers.
companies also had a duty and
liability for the proper government of
Companies not of the
their town and for its defence from
Bye-Trades.
attack – exemplified in the motto on
Goldsmiths. Upholsterers. Bricklayers
our City’s Coat of Arms “Fortiter
Wallers Plasterers. Ropermakers.
Defendit Triumphans” (Triumphing by
Brave Defence). To this day, when a Scriveners.
Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne is
admitted he is sworn before the Lord Hostmen, had no grant of Arms but
Mayor to defend the City. used a common seal.

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Town Moor
Money Charity
The Charity exists to offer and you
financial help to Freemen, could be
Widows or Daughters in receipt
irrespective of where they live of a bi-
provided they are on a lower annual grant
income, grants are awarded in while you’re
June and December. in education.

One group we can also assist is In addition to

students, sons or daughters of the scheduled
Freemen who are embarking on Grants, our
Higher Education courses. With Charity can also
the cost of going to help Freemen,
University/College often a Widows or
burden, the TMMC is already Daughters, who
helping a number of students. “are in need”
If you know of a son or through unexpected encouraging to hear the
daughter of a Freeman who is expense at any time, grants have made such a
attending or about to start we can also assist with difference.
University/College please the purchase of disability items
encourage them to complete an or mobility equipment, if you Application Forms are available
application form and let us help are in doubt and would like to from Company Stewards, or
ease the financial burden so know if you would qualify, Moor
they can concentrate on write to me at the Moor Bank Bank
succeeding in acquiring their Lodge office with the Lodge
qualifications. particulars of your request, the
It is not just young people who address can Keith Hall
can benefit from the Charity in be found at the back of this Chairman
this way, Freemen entering into publication. and
adult Higher Education courses Trustee,
are often surprised to discover We have received many letters Town
they qualify; it only costs the of appreciation from applicants Moor
time to fill in the application who have benefited from the Money
form and the price of a stamp charity. May I say that it is very Charity.

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Guild Hall, the

Merchants Court
We are currently considering redecorating the Merchants
Court. As a consequence of the age of the ornaments we
are seeking advice from English Heritage and shall be
speaking to those who specialise in this type of work.

The Merchants Court is a Christ’s feet; Christ healing

beautiful panelled room
within the Guild Hall, it
was originally in the
Maison Dieu and was built
by Roger Thornton as a
hospital in 1412.
In 1629 his descendant, Sir
Richard Lumley sold the
building to the Mayor and
Burgesses of Newcastle for
the sum of £100. The
Maison Dieu was rebuilt in
the mid 17th century as
the Guildhall by the
architect Robert Trollope.
The Merchants allowed
the Maison Dieu to be
demolished on condition
the ornaments and
furniture were preserved.
The chief ornament is the
magnificent carved mantel
taken from the Maison
Dieu bearing the date
1636, the two large
carvings represent ‘The
Miraculous Draught of
Fishes’ and the ‘ The
Judgement of Solomon’
smaller carvings depict
Mary Magdalene washing
the blind man; the
feeding of the multitude;
and John the Baptist
preaching in the
wilderness.
The frieze around the top
of the room depicts in
relief the planetary deities,
each seated in a wheeled
chariot drawn by an
animal, they are from left
to right Saturn, Juniper,
Mercury, the Sun, Venus,
Mars, and Mercury again.
The ceiling bears the date
1620 shown by separate
figures in each of its four
corners. Arms of the past
benefactors and governors
adorn the walls, also the
governors chair and a fine
escutcheon showing the
arms of the Merchants
Adventurers of Newcastle.
Open Guild receptions are
held in the Court after the
swearing in of new
Freemen. Many Guilds
also use the room for their
meetings and associated
functions.

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Freemen’s Bungalows
at Spital Tongues
A safe and friendly environment
to live being ideally situated and
set in private landscaped
gardens, half a mile by bus or a
nice stroll to Newcastle City
centre for shopping and its
transport links to all regions (use
the new bus pass! if your lucky
enough to have one).There are a
number of homes allocated
specifically for Freemen, their
widows or unmarried daughters
(unmarried daughters or being a
divorced or widowed daughter
of a Freeman) who would meet
income and capital criteria. So if
you’re over 50 why not come
along and view the properties
and see if you qualify, but be
prepared to be hooked.
18 FREEMEN MAGAZINE
14:59 Page 18
Although the properties are self
contained, residents who don’t
feel like cooking may use the
dining room to enjoy lunch in
the company of like minded
residents. Social activities are a
regular feature should you wish
to participate.
All in all the choice is yours you
can be self contained or be part
of an active community, but no
matter what the personal wish
or circumstances, assistance is
always on hand giving peace of
mind. There is also a residential
care home for those who require
a little extra help and who meet
the appropriate criteria.
Bungalows are administered by
the St Mary Magdalene & Holy
Jesus Trust,
To have a look around please
contact:
Miss Sharon Hepple,
General Manager
St Mary Magdalene & Holy
Jesus Trust,
Claremont Road,
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4NN
Tel: 0191 2697920
emil: st.marymagdalene@
btconnect.com
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Freemen of
England and
Wales Association
AGM Weekend 2008
Friday 29th to Sunday 31st August
The Freemen of England and Wales
(FEW) is an association of Guilds or
similar bodies of Freemen linked to
various towns and cities throughout
England and Wales. There is also
“Individual Membership” available to
Freemen who have a strong commitment
to the objectives of the Association.
These objectives being:
To advance by research and
publication, knowledge of the history
and legal custom of boroughs of
England and Wales, and the legal
Institution of the freedom
To support and protect the legal
Institution of the freedom, within
each of those several places in
England and Wales being former
boroughs where that institution is to
be found.
In 1966, the Freemen of the City of
Newcastle upon Tyne were amongst the
founders of the Association and
maintained a close involvement. Under
the auspices of FEW, the eminent
Newcastle Freeman, Robin Walker,
worked closely with Harry Ward and
Charles Sparrow QC to rectify the
omission of Freemen’s rights in the 1972
Local Government Act. Then during the
years 1999-2002, Alan Robson (co-editor
of our magazine) was the President of
FEW. Today, Newcastle Freeman Joe
Petty is Chairman of the FEW Trustees
and is also FEW Warden of the North.
Our Stewards’ Committee maintains a
Page 19
FEW Guild Membership on behalf of all
the Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne.
What this means is that any Freeman of
Newcastle upon Tyne, with his partner
and family, may attend the FEW-AGM
weekends. This year, during the weekend
29th to 31st August, the Freemen of Hale
will be the hosts for this popular 3-day
event.
The FEW-AGM weekend will be centred
at the Carnatic Conference Park (10
minutes from the centre of Liverpool).
Apart from accommodation and meals,
the AGM, the lavish Gala Dinner and the
colourful Church Parade, there will Civic
Receptions, sightseeing tours and talks
on the local freedom packed into the
weekend package. As always, there will
be plenty of opportunity to meet and
chat to fellow Freemen who will have
travelled from the various towns and
cities spread all over England and Wales.
Total weekend package for 2 persons is
only £315.
For full details of this special weekend,
and to obtain a booking form, contact
Mr Steve Turton, Tree Tops, Within Way,
Hale, Liverpool L24 4BZ
emil: steve.turton@dsl.pipex.com
or telephone 0151 425 1361
Alan Robson
FREEMEN MAGAZINE 19
FREEMAN ISSUE 5 MAY rework9 18/5/08
Thomas Davison and
Sir Thomas White Charities
Under 25 years old? Thinking of setting up a business, as a Freemen of Newcastle
you may qualify for assistance.
Thomas Davison the Younger
Charity, under a declaration of
trust dated 19th August 1755, is
for making gifts to young
Newcastle residents in need of
assistance in setting up business
in the City and preference is
given to Freemen
Sir Thomas White Charity,
regulated by declaration of trust
dated 1st July 1566, is for
making loans, free of interest for
a period not exceeding ten
years, to young Newcastle
residents in need of assistance in
setting up business in the City
and preference is given to
Freemen.
20 FREEMEN MAGAZINE
14:59 Page 20
Provided that you are a Freeman Applications should be made to
of Newcastle upon Tyne, and Barry Richardson Enterprise
residing in and Development Team Manager,
Economic Development Team,
intending to set up business Environment & Regeneration
within the City and less than 25 Directorate at the Civic Centre
years old - then you may apply telephone 0191 232 8520
for help from the Thomas ext. 25668.
Davison Charity or the Sir
Thomas White Charity.
Each Charity may issue a
grant up to the amount set
out as follows.
Thomas Davison £2,600
approx
Sir Thomas White £7,000
approx
FREEMAN ISSUE 5 MAY rework9 18/5/08 14:59 Page 21

The Freemen
who carved a
name for himself
Peter Robinson of the Incorporated Company of Smiths has spoken of his great-great-
uncle Gerrard Robinson, who was born on 22nd December 1834 in Forth Street, Forth
Banks, Newcastle upon Tyne – son of a “Whitesmith”. He became a woodcarving
genius, famous for his detailed high relief carved furniture, oak panels and other pieces
which graced stately homes and churches of the time.

Gerrard Robinson is Robinson’s work held in the not a wealthy man.

particularly remembered for
his magnificent carved oak
sideboards which each tell a
story like a book or a series of
three dimensional paintings
and are still highly prized
among the fine art
connoisseurs of today. Among
these are the Robinson Crusoe
Sideboard, the Chevy Chase
Sideboards (two were made),
the Shakespeare Sideboard,
the Derby Day Sideboard, the
Ivanhoe Sideboard, the Robin
Hood Sideboard and the
Burns Sideboard.
In 1991 there was a special
exhibition of Gerrard
Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle
upon Tyne and the Shipley Art
Gallery, Gateshead. Samples
of his work can still be
admired today at these two
venues.
2001 saw one of the Chevy
Chase Sideboards come up for
auction at Sotherbys, and they
described it as one of the
most important pieces of 19th
century English furniture. It
was sold to an American
buyer for $750,000.
When Gerrard Robinson died
from Phenomena on the 16th
March 1891 (aged 57) he was
“Unfortunately for himself”
wrote one of his
obituaries”Mr Robinson was
so retiring and diffident a man
that he never got the credit
and reputation that was due
to him. A more self-assertive
artist with half his talent
would have made fame and
fortune” However, there is
no doubt that the world of
fine art is all that richer
because of the lifetime work
of this Newcastle upon Tyne
Freeman and master
craftsman - Gerrard Robinson.

FREEMEN MAGAZINE 21
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Diary dates
Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne
Friday 29th to Sunday 31st August
FEW Weekend
Freemen of England and Wales AGM weekend
in the Village of Hale, near Liverpool.
Monday 6th October 2008
Michaelmas Guild, upstairs in the Newcastle
Guildhall (on Quayside, bottom of Dean Street)
Close Court of Guild
(for Company Stewards only) begins at 10am.
At this particular meeting the Stewards’
Committee is democratically elected via ballot
for the ensuing year.
Open Court of Guild
(for all Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne)
commences at 12 noon prompt. You must be
seated by 12 Noon for the Open Guild in
readiness to receive the Lord Mayor.
The meeting concludes with new Freemen
being called, and if present sworn in by the
Lord Mayor. Following the proceedings a buffet
lunch is available in the Merchant Adventurers
Court.
Monday 19th January 2009
Christmas Guild, upstairs in the Newcastle
Guildhall (On Quayside, bottom of Dean
Street)
Close Court of Guild
(for Company Stewards only)) begins
at 10am
Open Court of Guilds
22 FREEMEN MAGAZINE
Page 22
(for all Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne)
commences at 12 noon prompt. You must be
seated by 12 noon for the Open Guild in
readiness to receive the Lord Mayor.
The meeting concludes with new Freemen
being called, and if present sworn in by the
Lord Mayor. Following the proceedings a
buffet lunch is available in the Merchant
Adventurers Court.
Annual Guild Days
Christmas Guild
- the first Monday after 13th January
Easter Guild
- the first Monday after Easter Monday
Michaelmas Guild
- the first Monday after Michaelmas Monday
Gild of Freeman
Monday 13th October 2008
Newcastle Gild of Freemen meeting, upstairs
in the Newcastle Guildhall, starting at 7.30pm.
Monday 8th December 2008
Newcastle Gild of Freemen meeting, upstairs
in the Newcastle Guildhall, starting at 7.30pm.
Saturday 13th December 2008
Newcastle Gild of Freemen Christmas Buffet,
upstairs in the Newcastle Guildhall, starting at
12 noon. Booking forms must be returned to
the Gild Hon. Treasurer before the
10th December 2008.
FREEMAN ISSUE 5 MAY rework9 18/5/08 14:59 Page 23

Contacts
Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne
Superintendent and Office
Mr K. Batey,
Moor Bank Lodge, Claremont Road,
Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4NL
Tel: 0191 2615970
email: admin@freemenofnewcastle.org
Website: www.freemenofnewcastle.org

Gild of Freemen of Newcastle

Gild of Freemen of Newcastle,
Mr A. Robson,
“Monarkens Fryd,”
4 Parklands,
Hamsterley Mill,
Rowlands Gill,
Tyne and Wear, NE39 1HH
Tel: 01207 543509
email: alan.robson@freemenofnewcastle.org

Freemen of England and Wales Association

Warden for the North of England
Mr J.W.N. Petty
7 Wentworth Grange
The Grove, Gosforth
Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 1NL
Tel: 0191 2850591

FREEMEN MAGAZINE 23
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