freemen

THE NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

MAGAZINE

ISSUE 8 JUNE 2010

 The Coat of Arms of the
City of Newcastle upon Tyne

freemen
TY NE
UP ON
WC AS TL E
TH E NE
ZIN E
MA GA

20 10
8 JU NE
ISS UE

Front Cover Photograph, Swearing the Oath.

Photographs by Steve Brock Photography.
Tel: 0191 2863430 Mbl: 0793 2948245
To view all photographs of Guilds and Civic Reception,
visit www.stevebrock.co.uk
Foreword Contents
Editorial 4

News 5-6-8-9-19

FEW 7

Lord Mayor 10

Christmas Guild 11

Easter Guild 12-13

Civic Reception 14-16

Superintendents Report 17
This is proving to be a momentous
year in the history of the Freemen Social 18
of Newcastle upon Tyne. There
Music by a Cooper 20
can be no doubt that the advent
of Lady Freemen is an outstanding Tyne Bridge 21
achievement and for which we are
justly proud. Equality is spoken of in this Newcastle Silver 22-23
day and age as if it were a given right
but our experience has demonstrated Charities 24-25
that translation into action called for
a prescriptive rather than permissive Notice Board 26
approach. In this respect we were Dates for your Diary 26
delighted that despite reaching a very
late stage in the Parliamentary process,
the Government listened and enabled
legal enactment to nationally facilitate
the initiative that was promoted by
Newcastle upon Tyne.

We are delighted to welcome Lady

Freemen and look forward to active
and influential participation in all that
we do as guardians of a much revered
environmental asset – the Newcastle
Town Moors.
Magazine Editor:
Jim Johnson
Tanners Company, Stewards Committee.

Sir Leonard Fenwick The Newcastle upon Tyne Freemen

Chairman, Stewards Committee Magazine, Moor Bank Lodge, Claremont
Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4NL

E-mail freemenmagazine@freemenofnewcastle.org

FreemenMagazine 03
 Editorial
Welcome to the 8th publication of our
Magazine being a bumper issue to
celebrate that after some 900 years
daughters were sworn in as Freemen,
in the presence of Councillor Mike
Cookson.
Although the focus has been on
these historic events we do continue
to inform of the work of the Stewards
Committee who stay focused on all
aspects of their responsibilities as
custodians of the 1200 plus acres of
the Town Moors and all this entails.
We cannot help but to mention the
successful season of our football team
‘Newcastle United’ not only gaining
promotion at the first attempt to the
Premier League, but as ‘CHAMPIONS’,
capping all the remarkable events
since the previous issue.
Once again a plea for your assistance
as we continue to have copies of the
Magazine returned marked ‘moved,
addressee unknown’ much of which is
a consequence of not being informed
of changes in address. Please do
inform us of any change in your
circumstance, contact information
can be found at the rear of this
Magazine.
May we express our appreciation for
so many compliments received about
the Magazine. As ever do keep us on
our toes by contacting the Editor with
any suggestions or comments you
may wish to make on the content of
this and future issues.

Gild of
Freemen
We are advised that the ‘Gild’ of
Freemen is to be stood down with the
underlying reason being the initiatives
taken by the Stewards Committee to
bring about a more corporate and all
inclusive approach to the Freelage in
Newcastle upon Tyne.
It does need to be made clear that
the modus operandi of the ‘Gild’ was
not the responsibility of the Stewards
Committee, who only took the
initiative to organise events to fill a
void which had become apparent in
this regard over the last few years.

04 FreemenMagazine
Winter on the Moor
The Moors are usually quiet during
the Winter period, but the weather in
late December through to January
2010 started with a bang. Heavy snow
blanketed to Moors and which the
local population took full advantage of.
The hills on the Town Moor soon filled
with children, students and families
enjoying a days sledging. Anything
that could be used was employed,
sledges, kayaks, surf boards, snow
boards, even skateboards with the
wheels removed. It was a wonderful
sight to see so many local residents
enjoying their right to air and exercise
in such a way.
As ever the mild weather came and
the sledging was no more. Once again
the Moors fell quiet although very wet,
too wet in fact for our staff to drive the
‘gator’ onto the hills to clear debris left
by the public. Once the surface had
drained sufficient to enable access
the true extent of what had been left
behind became apparent, broken
sledges or anything that could have
been used as a sledge. In total one
weekend alone necessitated the
deployment of two big skips.
This all involved a fair bit of extra work
for our staff who did all in their stride,
knowing it is all part of ensuring the
Moors are safe to be enjoyed by the
public and then fit for grazing cattle in
the Spring.
FreemenMagazine 05
 Cattle warning signage
Incidents in various parts of the country involving
aggression being shown by grazing cattle towards
members of the public has prompted the need to
provide clear warnings at gateways, that dogs off the
leash pose risk of provoking retaliatory behaviour – from
what are by nature docile animals.

Illegal Parking on the Moor

Local residents in the Jesmond area
contacted the Stewards Committee
with a plea for help with regard to
parking on the verge of Clayton
Road. They had complained to the
City Council and the Police. The
City were unable to help and the
Police were unable to act unless they
directly observed the cars crossing the
footpath. Our simple solution was to
erect a small race course style fence
on the area to prevent access by
motor vehicles.
Compliments were soon received from
residents thanking the Freemen for their
swift action in resolving the problem.

06 FreemenMagazine
The Freemen of England and Wales (FEW)
and the rights of Daughters of Freemen
Equality in the Freelage is something
we can now take for granted thanks
to the amendment initiated by the
Newcastle upon Tyne Freemen.
There was a simple reason why
the Newcastle Clause 27 received
Government and cross party support.
In the words of the Government “the
greater the equality for women, the
better”, recognising that Clause 28
alone and which in essence and was
promoted by FEW, so fundamentally
discriminated against women.
One would assume the officers of the
FEW would have accepted the error of
promoting inequality and support the
Bill, alas no, in their February Journal
the Deputy President covered a brief
history of the progress of Parliamentary
Bills emenating from the Beverley Bill
(which they originally supported, then
withdrew). In their words “FEW were
able to make representations and the
Dept of Communities were receptive to
the problems raised accepting a redraft
and putting decision making back in
the hands of the Freemen - all was well!!
Sorry, no happy ending. At the last
minute Newcastle upon Tyne promoted
an additional clause inserting the
automatic right of daughters to be
sworn in across the land.
1. The original clause giving the Freemen
the facility to amend their local rules on
admission.
2. The new clause imposing upon every town
where the freedom exists that daughters of
Freemen must be admitted under the same
rules as applicable to sons of freemen.
Right, so now we know the situation,
how does it affect us and what (if
anything) can we do to minimise the
problems.”
To view the admission of daughters as
a ‘problem’ is remarkable in this day
and age. Oddly enough the article
then proceeds to examine how to
prevent daughters benefiting from
Gild funds or charitable support. This
all serves to beg the question, are
the opinions based on greed and self
preservation rather than that of the
original constitution?
The FEW Deputy President also
explained; “You may agree with me that
the loss of 1000 years of tradition by the
forced insertion of a prescriptive clause
in a bill takes an ego of monstrous
proportions, but we must live with the
consequences of that act and protect
the freedom to the best of our ability.”
I would suggest it is Freedom per se’
which needs protecting. FEW do hold
opinions that are an anathema to how
we view life here in the North East of
England and this set of actions has only
served to reinforce the decision taken at
Guild by the Incorporated Companies
to withdraw Corporate membership
of FEW until such time as they can
demonstrate true democracy in the
modern age rather than playing out as
an historical artefact (albeit having only
been constituted in 1968). Astonishingly
FEW continue to parade as an
organisation representing all Freemen of
England and Wales, which as we know
they do not!
As for equality for daughters of
Freemen; Yes we took the moral
high ground; Yes we challenged the
assumed sovereignty of FEW; Yes we
promoted the amendment to facilitate
equality, and Yes we were victorious,
and make no apologies for this.
Our Strength is in our Unity.
Editor
FreemenMagazine 07
 Newcastle Hoppings
Preparations are well underway
for the 2010 Hoppings (the Race
Week Festival). The Showmen will be
welcomed onto the site on 12th June
to set up and test the attractions in
readiness for the opening on Friday
18th June by the Lord Mayor.
During the 2009 fair the City Council
carried out an in depth survey of
visitors and showmen attending the
Hoppings, exploring their perceptions
of the quality of facilities, activities
and general community value the ‘Little Hoppings’
event provides.
The May Bank Holiday weekend saw
As part of the census the Hoppings the recreational space adjacent to
was most commonly described as Nuns Moor Park accommodating
‘fun’, ‘thrilling’’ and ‘lively’ with 95% the ever popular fairground which is
of visitors anticipating a return to the a pre-cursor to the Hoppings on the
Hoppings. main Town Moor.
There are as you would expect a We have welcomed the Clark family
considerable amount of suggestions for many years and have fond
and comments for improvement, memories of Bill and Helene Clark, as
which will be taken on board as well as Bill’s Uncle Kit Jobson who was
we continue dialogue with the City a much revered travelling fairground
Council and Showmen to secure a operator here in the North East.
strategy for improvement to secure
Today this fair, that comes within the
the long term future for the Hoppings.
aegis of Bill’s eldest son William Henry,
has gone from strength to strength.
The enclosed area provides a safe
environment for family entertainment.
All in all this is a much appreciated
community event in Newcastle’s West
end.

08 FreemenMagazine
Moor Bank Lodge –
Residential House
Improvements
This is the residential base of the Town
Moor Superintendent and as part of
the overall upgrade programme of the
Town Moor estate, domestic facilities
have been substantially improved with
the construction of a kitchen extension
and associated facilities.

Albert Austin Merchants

Adventurers Court
refurbishment
Essential
restoration of
the Merchants
Court within
the Guildhall
was completed
Albert sadly passed away in in time for
February 2010. the Christmas
Guild. The
Albert was the Fairground Supervisor works included
for some 20 years while employed by redecoration of
the City Council (his day job being the decorative
Chief Building Control Officer) then ceiling plaster
latterly by the Northern Syndicate. His and upper walls all
sheer professionalism and expertise of which date from
in setting out the overall site ensuring the 15th Century,
the success of a safe Hoppings was as well as cleaning
unsurpassed. A truly great friend of the to associated
Freemen who was held in the highest artwork together
regard. with some electrical improvements.
Before the arrival of the Showmen in A project which required input from
June this year the Freemen and the various experts in historic restoration
City will be placing a park bench was co-ordinated by David Wilson
at the former bus turning circle, and Harry Alder. Some £22,000 was
Grandstand Road, facing south expended to ensure this treasure is
towards the fairground, which will be presented with pride to all users and
known as Albert’s seat. visitors.

FreemenMagazine 09
 Lord Mayor Mike Cookson
I am proud and pleased to have served a year as Lord Mayor
of the City of Newcastle upon Tyne. I am exceptionally pleased
that in this year there has been a historic change which I
believe will sustain the Freemen for a further Millennium, the
swearing in of women.
Just to take part in one Guild is a
delight, to participate on a number
of occasions is a reinforcement of the
pleasure. To sit and listen, to respond,
commend and praise is an honour.
However there is more, to stand and
welcome the new Freemen, to take
oath and to take that silver coin is
cream and cherry on the cake. As
one of a thousand or so Mayors, I am
proud of this City’s Freemen history and
its presence today.
A thousand years, near enough of
of women is far too long for me to
burgesses, mayors and freemen. A
repeat here but I now think that I have
thousand years of history and tradition
actually been a part of it. History is
is a tremendous and valuable treasure
important but change will occur, it
that all in Newcastle should hold dear
might take a year or two or a hundred
to their hearts. I have not studied
years but change will win.
the history of the Freemen enough,
neither in Newcastle nor anywhere What we must do is welcome such
else across the country, hopefully I will change and manage, pro-actively,
remedy that soon. However, it is not the consequences and outcomes
those personal mementoes which will that change brings. Re-action is not
remain with me, as I have a number enough, and is often a negative reply
of silver coins and I understand that and is counterproductive.
these tokens remain mine at the end
of my term in office. The largest coin is To retain that which we all treasure
dated 1874 and shows a very young requires solid work by the interested
Queen Victoria. I’d like to mention and concerned. This effort must not
another coin, dated 1908, the year rely upon past precedent, history
that Elizabeth Garret Anderson was the or re-action, but must involve a
first woman elected a Mayor. commitment to pro-active change.
Those changes are now upon us and
The history of the emancipation the next generation.

“The introduction of women to the Freemanship is

long overdue and should be welcomed by all.”

10 FreemenMagazine
Christmas Guild 11th January, 2010

All in attendance assembled in the main hall to witness Richard Mark son of Michael
Rowland Moat, Bricklayer, sworn in by the Lord Mayor.

The Christmas Close Guild was
dominated by the proposal to refresh
the Rules and Orders to reflect the
changes in legislation and in particular
which gave daughters the same
right to the Freelage as sons. Arising
out of vigorous debate, the Stewards
of the various Companies voted by
a significant majority to adopt the
updated rules. Stewards representing
the Freemen of Trinity House (historically
known as Masters & Mariners) and
the Millers Company did vote against
adoption of the revised Rules and
Orders, which if not agreed upon at
that time would then have served
to frustrate progress to ensure Lady
Freemen were sworn in at Easter Guild.
At Open Guild, the Chairman Sir
Leonard Fenwick addressed the
Lord Mayor, advising on all aspects
of the Freelage including the
success of Clause 27 of the Local
Democracy, Economic Development
and Construction Act 2009, and
more importantly that a proposal to
modernise our Rules and Orders to
comply with the legislation had been
successfully adopted at Guild, paving
the way for the first swearing in of
daughters.
The Lord Mayor, Councillor Mike
Cookson, responded to say how much
he was looking forward to being the
first Lord Mayor to swear in Ladies as
Freemen of Newcastle. The Town Clerk
Stuart Ovens (Head of Corporate Law)
responded to the Chairman’s remarks,
complimenting the new Clause as to
clarity and the distinct unquestionable
rights awarded to women. Finally Ian
Humphries, the Lord Mayors Principal
Secretary read the list of callings of
new Freemen.
Paul David, son of Malcolm Edward
Anderson, Butcher; was called but not
present.

FreemenMagazine 11
 Easter Guild 12th April, 2010
Easter Guild 2010 sealed its place in
history as being the first Guild to swear
in daughters of Freemen of Newcastle
upon Tyne. There was certainly a
tremendous buzz of excitement and
anticipation as one son and ten
daughters stood in line to hear the
Lord Mayors Principal Secretary Ian
Humphries, read out the declaration
then each in turn sworn whilst holding
the ancient musket before presenting
themselves to the Lord Mayor Councillor
Mike Cookson, to complete the
admission as a Freemen by the signing
of their Oath paper and presenting the
Lord Mayor with a pre 1910 silver coin.
Reporters from local newspapers
radio and BBC television attended to
record the occasion including the first
daughters being sworn in. The ensuing
media coverage was extensive,
including a light hearted cartoon in the
Newcastle Journal, 13th April, 2000.
12 FreemenMagazine
Alexander Joseph son of Joseph
Michael Proctor, Plumber. Nina
Luena Blenkinsop daughter of
Michael Blenkinsop, Cooper.
Ruth Plummer daughter of
Lionel Robson Lunn, Bricklayer.
Maureen Bell daughter of John
James Skirving, Weaver. Judith
Caroline Carruthers daughter of
Philip Bulman, Tanner. Lesley Ann
Walker daughter of Alan Robert
Bainbridge, Goldsmith. Ellen Hall
daughter of James Taylor Hall,
Masters & Mariners. Christine
Margaret Lowes daughter of Ernest
Fenwick Loraine, Cordwainer.
Maureen Brien daughter of Joseph
William Carr, Joiner. Gemma
Louise Ions daughter of Alan
Ions, Shipwright. Beverley Heron
daughter of Thomas Wilson,
Ropemaker.
Following an address by the Lord
Mayor, the Guildhall echoed with a
resounding applause, a sound which
will be repeated many times over in
the coming months. More than 200
daughters’ names were called at Guild
and arrangements are in hand to
secure dates for all to be sworn in over
the coming months.
Applications awaiting verification will
be called at Michaelmas Guild 2010
and subject to being verified by the
Lord Mayors Office.
FreemenMagazine 13
 Great Civic Occasion
On 17th April 2010 the City of
Newcastle held a Civic Reception
in the Banqueting Hall at the Civic
Centre Newcastle upon Tyne, at the
invitation of the Lord Mayor Mike
Cookson and Lady Mayoress Dorrie
Cookson to celebrate daughters being
given the right to the Freelage of
Newcastle upon Tyne. Many present
and future Lady Freemen gathered
with their guests along with the
members of the Stewards Committee
in a celebration of the right of equality
into the Freelage.
The Lord and Lady Mayoress and the
Chairman of the Stewards Committee
processed to the podium where the
Lord Mayor welcomed his guests
saying it was a proud day for the City
and himself as the 103rd Lord Mayor of
14 FreemenMagazine
Newcastle upon Tyne and the first in
900 years to swear in a Lady Freemen.
The Lord Mayor then introduced
Sir Leonard Fenwick who gave a
snapshot of the historic Parliamentary
events effected by the Freemen, from
achieving success with regard to the
1774 and 1988 Town Moor Acts through
to the successful inclusion of the
Newcastle upon Tyne Clause to bring
about gender equality in 2009, saying
the “tenacity of the Freemen always
shines through.”
The Lord Mayor then invited those
Lady Freemen present who were
sworn in on Monday 12th April at the
Easter Guild to join himself, the Lady
Mayoress and Sir Leonard in cutting a
cake in celebration of the event. The
Lord Mayor called for a ‘sharp knife’
upon which his assistant handed him
the City’s ceremonial sword which was
used to cut the cake.
The Lord Mayor then called upon
everyone present to enjoy the
hospitality of the City Council. As the
buffet was served the Lord Mayor, Lady
Mayoress and Sir Leonard mingled with
the guests along with members of the
Stewards Committee.
We cannot express enough
appreciation to the City and in
particular Lord Mayor and Lady
Mayoress for their kind invitation, and
also to Ian Humphries and his staff for
organizing such a wonderful event.
A special mention is also called for
in respect to Alan Bainbridge of the
Stewards Committee for liaising with
the Lord Mayors Office.
The Lord Mayor presented David
Wilson and Jim Johnson of the
Admissions Group with a special bottle
of Newcastle Lord Mayor Brown Ale in
appreciation of their assistance.
FreemenMagazine 15
16 FreemenMagazine
Superintendent’s Report
Our grazing season was due to
commence on 31st March but inclement
weather led to postponement until 12th
April. The Moors were saturated and most
were standing inches deep in water,
and the temperature was well below
the norm for this time of year. What a
difference two weeks made. The 12th
of April arrived and the cattle were
decanted giving the moors that look of
“spring is finally here” and a welcome
sight for all to enjoy. The Town Moors
will be home to more than 500 head of
cattle this season.
The weather also delayed our fertiliser
programme, which is generally
complete before the cattle arrive;
however all is not lost the fertiliser was
spread on the main Town Moor and
Nuns Moor South by the end of April.
The Town Moor staff have spent
the Winter months repairing and
strengthening the timber lines. A new
trough had to be installed on Nuns Moor
North following vandalism. Unfortunately
the problem of vandalism is an issue
that remains unabated, and a strain on
our day to day resource with constant
calls from residents, local agencies and
the Police bringing to our attention
details of the latest incidents that require
attention.
When only into week two of the grazing
season some 140 feet of timber fencing
was decimated by drunken youths.
Gate springs too
have had to be
welded on to
our gates when
smashed as
vandals encouraged cattle to escape
on to the highways. Our 24-hour on
call system, which operates during the
grazing season, proves its worth and we
do appreciate the many phone calls
from the local residents alerting us to the
problems stemming from such mindless
and aggressive behaviour.
The Stewards Committee, our specialist
drainage contractor and Town Moor
staff are currently working closely with
City Council Officers on a range of
environmental issues including the
challenge to bring about more effective
drainage on the Little Moor in Gosforth,
and also Nuns Moor South and Nuns
Moor Central in Fenham. Exploratory
works are set to commence over the
coming months, which will identify the
underlying problems and assist us to
draw up the necessary plans ensuring
we install the correct scheme to
overcome these problems.
We will continue to ensure that the Town
Moors are a safe haven for our cattle
and the public to also enjoy.
Until the next Issue…
Kevin Batey
Town Moor Superintendent
FreemenMagazine 17
 Freemen of Newcastle Social
Approximately 130 Newcastle Freemen
attended a social hosted by the
Stewards Committee on January 17th
2010 in the Guildhall.
It was a truly splendid event.
Northumbrian music provided by
Malcolm Bennett who entertained with
songs and ditties from the area, most
of which were known and joined in
with by the majority of the audience.
As a consequence a number of the
audience would be a little hoarse the
following day as they attempted to
reach musical notes that were beyond
their reach.
Humour was provided by Bob Bolam,
a well known local comedian and
raconteur, who told jokes and stories
that were so simple and honest that
they reflected the times that we have
lived through without ever causing
offence or reverting to the inept
language that seems so prevalent in
comedians of today. The audience
loved it and it confirmed people’s
thoughts that Geordie humour is alive
and well.
Next on were the Stewards Committee.
At a previous social event one of the
ideas that were put forward by those
attending was to have a question and
answer session between the audience
and the Stewards. There were a good
number of questions however the
one that dominated was the question
of women being admitted to the
Freelage, especially the length of time
it would take to get everyone sworn in.
It was explained that the first women
would be sworn in at the Easter Guild
on the 12th of April 2010 and thereafter
at intervals to be arranged between
the Lord Mayors office and the
Stewards Committee. It was hoped to
work through the list in good time trying
to balance each swearing in with all
the factors that exist in today’s society
and giving each ceremony the dignity
it deserves.
There followed the buffet lunch
where the tables groaned under the
weight of food and drink. A number
of Freemen had travelled from afar
and had used the event to see old
friends and acquaintances, as well
as meeting new ones. Conversations
were again dominated about women
entering the Freelage and the general
consensus was that it was a good thing

18 FreemenMagazine

and about time that women took a
full part in the affairs of the Freemen.
A number of eagle eyed Freemen
noted that the Merchant
Adventurers Hall (where the buffet
was laid out) looked a little brighter
than it had on previous occasions.
This was due to the Freemen
working together with English
Heritage to restore the ceiling and
panel work to the original state that
it was in 1620.
Guests started to drift away at
around 3.45 pm the farewell on
everyone’s lips was coupled with
the question, when is the next
social?
The Catering team lead by Geoff
did a wonderful job, not only did
they provide us with a delicious
buffet they helped with the furniture
removal and tidying up afterwards.
Many thanks go to them and all
those who helped in any way.
Alan Bainbridge.
Organiser, Stewards Committee
and Goldsmiths Company.
Using Facebook
to reach out
As an organisation we continually
seek to utilize the latest technology
and are continually looking to use the
most current medium for Freemen to
interact. Facebook a social networking
site is the latest addition to achieving
interaction.
Facebook is a free-to-join internet-
based utility designed to help its
members stay in touch with friends,
relatives and colleagues the world
over.
Our Facebook page has been initiated
to encourage Freemen to interact
within a common interest.
This kind of facility is fast-becoming
second nature to the next generation
of Freemen which is why we need to
keep up to speed with progress of
technology.”
To access the group, you need to
have or set up an account at
www.facebook.com, which only takes
a few minutes. After that, just search
on ‘Freemen of Newcastle’ and you’ll
arrive at the all-important page. The
Web Page Admin team will be able to
offer you any help and assistance you
may need.”
FreemenMagazine
FreemenMagazine 19
 Music by a Cooper
David Hughes, Junior Steward of the That’s become very successful and,
Coopers Company, is responsible for so far, our music has been used on
the day-to-day maintenance of our several radio shows in the US and on a
web site, Freemenofnewcastle.com Canadian wild life documentary.”
through his company, Infection Media.
David and partner, Jules, are also trying
However, in his spare time, David also to build a following amongst the local
composes and releases music. David music scene.
explains, “We record under two band
“We’re gigging fairly regularly in the
names at the moment, SkinMechanix
next couple of months’, says David. ‘We
and Ion. SkinMechanix is our live outfit, the
plan on playing at the Morden Tower
name we go under when we’re playing
later in the year. Morden Tower was the
concerts.” says David. “Ion is actually our
meeting hall of the Plumbers Company
library music project, music that is used for
and is currently used for poetry readings
TV and radio. SkinMechanix tends to be
and concerts.”
loud and noisy, very rock and roll. Ion is
more laid back and relaxed.” “My Great, Great, Great, Great Uncles
were Thomas and William Ions, the
This adventure began as a hobby in
organ masters at St. Nicholas Cathedral
a spare room with just a couple of
in Newcastle, and we’ve been
synthesisers but, after University, David
reworking some of their music using
began working as a music journalist
modern instruments. The plan is to put
and subsequently became very serious
on a concert later this year where we
about learning to play and record.
play some of our tunes mixed in with
“I released a CD in 1995 called ‘The their music.”
Infection of Time’ and that did very
For more information visit: Infection
well, earning a lot of good reviews and
Media: www.infectionmedia.co.uk
enjoying airplay right around the world.
Thinking Metal Music:
Seven CDs later, we began to branch
www.thinkingmetal.co.uk
out into writing music for TV and radio.

20
20 FreemenMagazine
FreemenMagazine
Tyne Bridge: A sight when
Geordies know they are home
The earliest bridge across the Tyne, Pons
Aelius, was built by the Romans near
the location of the present Tyne Bridge.
Built around 122 it fell into disrepair, and
a stone bridge was built in 1270. This was
in turn destroyed by the great flood of
1771. In 1781, a new stone bridge across
the Tyne was completed. Increased
shipping activity led to the stone bridge
being removed in 1866 to make way
for construction of the present Swing
Bridge, which opened in 1876.
The idea for a bridge at the location
of the present Tyne Bridge dates back
to 1864, due to concern regarding the
cost of tolls on the High Level Bridge
- although the first serious discussions
took place in 1883. On 29 April 1924,
Newcastle and Gateshead approved
the plans, and the Newcastle upon Tyne
and Gateshead (Corporations) Bridge
Act was passed on 7 August that year.
Work started in August 1925 with Dorman
Long acting as the building contractors.
Despite the dangers of the building
work, only one worker (Charles Tosh)
died in the building of this structure.
The bridge was completed on 25
February 1928 and opened on 10
October by King George V and Queen
Mary, who were the first to use the
roadway travelling in their Ascot landau.
The Tyne Bridge’s towers were built of
Cornish granite and were designed
as warehouses with five storeys. Lifts
for passengers and goods were built
in the towers to provide access to
the Quayside, although they are no
longer in use. Tram lines were built into
the Tyne Bridge structure and ready
for immediate use after the opening
ceremony Tram car No. 289 was the last
Newcastle tram to run into Gateshead
over the Tyne Bridge on Sunday 5 March
1950 at approximately 10.55 pm. The
tram lines were subsequently removed,
although some vestiges of these remain
such as redundant fixings for overhead
power lines.
The bridge was originally painted green
with special paint made by J. Dampney
Co. of Gateshead. The same colors
were used to paint the bridge for the
Millennium. The bridge spans 531 feet
(162 m) and the road deck is 84 feet
(26m) above the river level.
FreemenMagazine
FreemenMagazine 21
 Newcastle Silver
Joe Petty, Head In 1536 five Newcastle silversmiths,
Steward of the goldsmiths combined with local
Hostmens Company, pewterers, plumbers, glaziers and
(left), is not only a well painters to form a craft guild, receiving
known Freeman of their company charter in 1536.
Newcastle upon Tyne,
Whilst silversmithing was an active
he is also a highly
craft in the 16th and 17th century
respected expert
very little survives from the period
on Newcastle Silver,
prior to the civil war, as silver that did
and is often called
exist was either surrendered to the
upon to give talks and advice. He has
King or confiscated by Cromwell. The
written many in-depth articles on this
earliest piece which can confidently
subject from which the following is
be considered Newcastle silver is
abstracted.
a small communion cup made by
There must have been craftsmen Valentine Baker, dated 1583 which is
in precious metals in Newcastle in now displayed in the Treasury at York
Medieval times for an ordinance of Minster.
1248 required the appointment of two
The restoration of the Monarchy and
monyers to test the purity of coinage
the re-establishment of the Church
minted locally and of two assayers to
of England in 1660 brought about
test for purity all items of wrought plate
a marked change in the fortunes
submitted to them.

22 FreemenMagazine
of silversmiths. Many of the gentry
wished to replace what had been
given up or confiscated, and the
church required replacement plates
and communion silver, and this was
certainly true in Newcastle, the craft
had never completely died out and
rapidly revived. Foremost among the
silversmiths in Newcastle from 1660
was William Ramsey who had been
admitted into the Company in 1656
and was very active until his death in
1698. As well as being the leader in
his craft he was active in the town life
serving as Sheriff and later as Mayor.
The provincial assay office at
Newcastle was established in 1702.
Local silversmiths and goldsmiths had
to register their private marks with the
office, and all items of silver had to be
assayed and marked with the three
castles of the town arms and other
marks prescribed by the Britannia Silver
Standard Act, or the later Wrought
Plate Act of 1719. In 1784 an act was
passed reintroducing a direct tax on
plate. This required an additional
mark, the sovereign’s head, had to be
stamped on each piece to indicate
that duty had been paid.
Over 80 Newcastle makers’ marks are
registered.
Due to internal wrangling, and a
steady decline in the production
of silver pieces, the assay office at
Newcastle was closed in 1884
Coins struck in Newcastle bear the
text, VILLA NOVI CASTRI, translates to
‘Town of Newcastle’
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 = Date letter, 2 = Assay Mark,
3 = Newcastle Mark, 4 = Standard Mark,
5 = Duty Mark, 6 = Makers Mark.
FreemenMagazine 23
 Town Moor Money Charity
a timely reminder
In accordance with the provisions of
the Newcastle upon Tyne Town Moor
Act 1988, the Stewards Committee is
empowered to designate up to 100
acres of the Town Moor as “Intakes”.
Rents arising from the lease of Intakes
provide income for the Town Moor
Money Charity.
Support is available to assist Freemen,
their surviving spouse, also sons or
daughters of Freemen aged 18 to
20 being in higher education for
assistance. Means tested grants are
made towards living expenses, or
help towards the purchase of mobility
aids and other items that can assist
independent living.
Forms for financial assistance are
available from the Senior Steward of
the Incorporated Company, which
you, your father or mother hails, or
from the Treasurer of the Town Moor
Money Charity at Moor Bank Lodge
Claremont Road, Newcastle upon
Tyne NE2 4NL. Applications are
considered by the Town Moor Money
Charity Trustees, with grants awarded
in June and December of each year.
Once the first grant has been awarded
a form will be automatically sent in
24 FreemenMagazine
time for the next distribution. In cases
of extreme hardship, the Trustees may
consider applications outside of the
normal distribution dates by calling an
Extraordinary Meeting.
If unfamiliar with the name and
address of the Senior Steward of the
company, it can be obtained from our
web site www.freemenofnewcastle.
org or from Moor Bank Lodge.
In the past cases have come to light
where an applicant has struggled
financially for many years unaware
that help was at hand. If you are
unsure if you would qualify why not
complete an application form, the
forms are not complicated, you will
be informed by the Trustees whether
or not you are successful. Please don’t
just assume you would not qualify, it
costs nothing to fill in a form and let the
Trustees check if you are eligible.
Should you be aware of someone
whom you believe would benefit from
financial aid, please encourage them
to apply.
Keith Hall
Chairman
Town Moor Money Charity
Homes at St. Mary Magdalene
& Holy Jesus Trust

We wish to bring to the attention of our new readers, and to remind

all Freemen, of the availability of designated accommodation at
the St. Mary Magdalene & Holy Jesus Hospital.
The Trust exists mainly to provide Applicants are given every opportunity
sheltered housing. All applicants to look around the Trust’s properties
have to meet certain financial and facilities before taking the
criteria, although each application is decision to accept a property. Looking
considered on its own merit. at the location and benefits is an
opportunity which should be given
There is an allocation of
serious consideration if you are looking
accommodation afforded to the
to ‘downsize’ and cut your overheads!
Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne over
the age of 50 years (married couples Should you, or anyone you know who
or single), or a surviving spouse of a meet the qualifications and may be
Freeman living in the region. interested in this accommodation and
have the benefit of the internet why
The bungalows in Spital Tongues
not visit www.mmhjtrust.com and see
provide a safe and friendly
what’s on offer, if not please contact
atmosphere, with home help and
the Trust directly.
personal assistance available to those
who may require these services. There
is a main dining room where residents
can enjoy a mid-day meal if they do
Miss Sharon Hepple,
not feel like cooking for themselves and
General Manager, St Mary
regular social activities are arranged,
Magdalene & Holy Jesus Trust,
should you wish to participate.
Claremont Road,
The Trust offers self-contained homes Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4NN
in landscaped gardens just a short bus
ride from the City centre. Telephone 0191 2697920.

FreemenMagazine 25
 Notice Board Diary Dates
New Stewards Monday 11th October 2010
MICHAELMAS GUILD, upstairs in the
Alex Wright Newcastle Guildhall (on Quayside,
Scriveners Company bottom of Dean Street)
Close Court of Guild (for Company
Arnold Currall Stewards only) begins at 10am
Hostmens Company
At this particular meeting the Stewards’
Committee is elected via ballot for the
Bereavements ensuing year.

David Gregson Annan Open Court of Guild (for all Freemen of

Phillip Bulman Newcastle upon Tyne) commences at
Tanners Company 12 noon prompt
You must be seated by 12 Noon for the
Open Guild in readiness to receive the
William Harrison Lord Mayor.
Upholsterers Company
The meeting concludes with new
Freemen being called, and if present
Leonard Elder sworn in by the Lord Mayor.
Smiths Company Following the proceedings, a buffet
lunch and refreshments are served in
the Merchant Adventurers Court.
Professor R.C. Cookson
Merchants Company Monday 17th January 2011
CHRISTMAS GUILD, upstairs in the
Jack Graham Newcastle Guildhall (On Quayside,
Plumbers Company bottom of Dean Street)
Close Court of Guild (for Company
Stewards only) begins at 10am
Nichol Frizzell
House Carpenters Open Court of Guild (for all Freemen of
Company Newcastle upon Tyne) commences at
Colliers Company 12 noon prompt
You must be seated by 12 noon for the
Open Guild in readiness to receive the
Annual Guild Days Lord Mayor.
Christmas Guild - the first Monday
The meeting concludes with new
after 13th January
Freemen being called, and if present
Easter Guild - the first Monday after sworn in by the Lord Mayor.
Easter Monday
Following the proceedings a buffet
Michaelmas Guild - the first Monday lunch and refreshments are served in
after Michaelmas Monday the Merchant Adventurers Court.

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

FreemenMagazine 27
COPYRIGHT: Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne.

PUBLISHER: Riney Publishing Limited, Sue Riney-Smith Tel: 01325 304360 Email: sue@cherrington.onyxnet.co.uk