A RETIRED blacksmith and firefighter has celebrated 50 years as a Freemason.

The golden jubilee celebrations at Windermere Masonic Hall saw 66 brethren gather to pay tribute to worshipful brother Thomas Bland.

Provincial grand master Norman James Thompson presented the Kentmere farmer's son with a framed certificate to mark his achievements.

The gathering heard that Mr Bland and his wife of 59 years, Mary, had produced the beautiful banner displayed at lodge meetings. Mr Bland, who worked as a blacksmith, farrier and structural steel manufacturer, also made and embroidered the lodge kneeling stools and renovated the master’s and warden’s chairs.

Between 1959 and 1987 he was a retained firefighter, serving as station officer at Windermere for 17 years. Since 1988 he has wound the Baddeley Clock between Windermere and Bowness.

The grandfather-of-six became a Freemason in 1967 and has twice served as worshipful master of Windermere Lodge, as well as director of ceremonies and secretary. In 2011 he was promoted to the high rank of past provincial senior grand warden.