WSMBA 21st National Rally 2025 – Hosted by Beda Chapter
From 25th to 27th July 2025, the Bedfordshire Beda Chapter of the Widows Sons Masonic Bikers Association proudly hosted the WSMBA’s 21st National Rally at Leighton Buzzard Rugby Club. This memorable event was supported by the Cobblestones, Hallstone, Iceni Norfolk, Oxonian, Shires, and Suffolk Chapters.
The rally was led by Beda President Jeff Boote of Bunyan Lodge 5973, Vice President and President Elect Jason Rickels of Sandye Lodge 8820, and VP Elect Mark Crelin-Lane, also of Bunyan Lodge 5973, with Beda Officers representing seven Bedfordshire lodges.
Over 700 Widows Sons, Associate Members, and their families attended from across the UK, Europe, and the USA. Many camped for the duration of the weekend, enjoying fellowship and fun. Saturday featured a large and successful ride-out led by Andy Mann (Bunyan Lodge 5973), which included a stop for refreshments at the scenic Danish Camp.
A highlight of the weekend was a regular meeting of the Widows Sons Lodge No. 10011, a “travelling” lodge, attended by three Provincial Grand Masters and Grand Superintendents, our own from Bedfordshire Nick Edwards, as pictured above and below (!) and two from supporting Provinces, Mark Constance of Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire, and Jolyon Berry of Suffolk (on his huge, green bike!)
On behalf of his fellow Provincial Grand Masters Nick Edwards addressed the gathering , commending the Lodge and WSMBA for their warm hospitality and the spirit of enjoyment and brotherhood.
WSMBA lodge meetings offer a unique twist on Masonic tradition:
Masonic regalia is worn alongside Chapter “cuts” or waistcoats.
Rock anthems accompany the Opening and Closing processions.
The Master and his officers chairs are replaced by motorcycles.
Gavels are substituted with motorcycle pistons.
The Temple floor is typically grass inside a massive marquee.
The Tyler is stationed “Outside the door of the Tent”.
Evening entertainment featured a lively Oompah Band, Bandeoke, and an energetic performance by The Skasouls. Attendees enjoyed the specially brewed Widows Sons Ale on tap and a hearty hog roast.
The rally also raised funds for WSMBA charities through Alms collections, T-shirt, challenge coin, and rally pin sales, a charity auction, and the traditional Masonic raffle. Beneficiaries include Lifelites, SERV Blood Bikers, Kids in Mind, Kids in Action, and other local charities.
It was, without doubt, a truly unforgettable celebration of brotherhood, charity, and shared passion.