The Master of Heartland Lodge 8990, W Bro Anthony Pointing, gave a hearty welcome to all present at their meeting in the chapel at Guy’s Cliffe, Warwick, when the lodge hosted the presentation of a 50 Year Service to Freemasonry Certificate to W Bro John Durling, PProvSGW, by Assistant Provincial Grand Master W Bro Trevor Sturt.
Born in Ruislip in 1935, when driving tests and the 30mph speed limit were first introduced, and well remembering the war years during his time there, John soon became hooked on football, becoming a devoted follower of Chelsea FC and after trials became a member of their youth academy. Sport has always been his passion and shortly after becoming an apprentice toolmaker in 1951 he took up cross country running, often outpacing professional runners.
In 1946 he joined Scouting, becoming a Queen Scout in 1953 and was in the parade at Windsor Castle in front of Queen Elizabeth II.
After marrying Heather in 1961 and moving to Maidstone, John took up cricket, then in 1962 he joined Sandvik UK as a Salesman, becoming Manager of the Midlands in 1971 when he moved to Kenilworth.
In 1964 he joined Hearsall Golf Club in Coventry. This coincided with the arrival of their first daughter Anita, followed by Louise in 1973 who has recently produced a grandson for them.
In 1980, he moved into Computer aided Design and Manufacturing and soon made his mark with Prime Computers of Boston, USA.
John was initiated into Lodge of Perseverance 1743 (meeting in London) where most of the members also belonged to Livery Companies. He became the Lodge’s 100th Master fourteen years later, with the Anniversary being attended by many senior freemasons of the day.
Having been the Founding Master of Meridian Lodge 9003, where he was Master in 1981, 1982 and 2009, John was also Master of Priors Lodge 8265 in 1988 and was appointed Provincial Grand Steward in 1987, followed by successive promotions to his present rank in 2013.
He is also a member of five Royal Arch Chapters and has given active service to the Provincial Grand Chapter, as well as holding high office in several other Orders.
After offering many congratulations and best wishes, the Assistant PGM presented John with his Certificate and Badge of Service, which was followed by a magnificent Proclamation by the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, W Bro David Stanford.
A most enjoyable ”Burns” festive board then took place, at which W Bro “Doc” MP Halliday was Piper.

(l-r) Trevor Sturt, John Durling, Anthony Pointing