FREEMASONS in Burnley threw their lodge open to the public for the first time in an attempt to rid themselves of the "secret society" image.

By mid afternoon more than 500 people had attended the open day at Burnley Freemasons' Hall, Nelson House, Nelson Square.

They were handed leaflets explaining the history of local freemasonry, which dates from the 1600s, and given guided tours of the Lodge Room and exhibition of the regalia, all based on the ancient craft of stone masonry.

East Lancashire Press and publicity officer Norman Pickles said: "We are very pleased by the number of people who have turned up.''

He said the open day, the first in East Lancashire, was part of a policy of openness. Other open days have been held in Manchester, Blackburn and Bolton and future ones will be held at Oldham, Bury, Rawtenstall and Shaw.

The Burnley event included a craft fair with 18 stalls helping to bring in members of the public.

Visitors were able to meet members and ask questions about the organisation.

Mr Pickles said the idea was to show there was nothing sinister or secret about the society, whose members supported the law, community and the family while fulfilling their public and private responsibilities.

Freemasonry also has a charitable side. Locally over £20,000 has been donated to the Hospice Appeal with many other local causes also being supported.

Mr Pickles added: "It was felt that we faced a lot of unwarranted criticism in the national Press and even on television programmes such as Coronation Street.

"It was felt we should invite members of the public to come along and see we are not members of a secret society."

He added: "What kind of secret society would appoint a Press and publicity officer?''

More open days may be held in the future.

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