16th June 2026 - Kicking of the Summer at the HillTop Lodges

On Saturday 14th June 2025 the HillTop lodges gathered under dispensation at Stow on the Wold to hold our now traditional and Formal Summer Joint Lodge of Instruction (JLOI).  This year we where delighted to welcome W. Bro Mike Neville, our guest speaker for the evening who presented 'Masonic Politicians, Service and Scandal.' 

The HillTop arms of Friendship wrapped around Mike on his arrival and smiles, fun and laughter filled the entire building for the whole evening.  As the meeting was a JLOI, the principle officers were filled by current assistant officers.  Bro. Giles Russel acted as WM, Bro. Andy Cartlidge as SW and Ross Weaver as JW.  They conducted the business of the JLOI with great skill, if a bit nervous!  Well done Men!  W. Bro. Malcolm Wearing WM of The Prince of Wales, W. Bro Geoff Hinton WM of Chipping Campden and W. Bro. Rod Harrison representing the WM of Sudeley Castle where all in attendance along with many other HillTop Brethren and visitors from other Lodges.

Having 'Called off' we were all roundly entertained by Mike’s illustrated presentation, where he described the masonic connections of a variety of British and American politicians – some, good guys …. some, not so good …. and some, absolute scoundrels!  Ending with his trademark “test”, to check everyone had stayed awake, all the Brethren agreed it had been a superb talk expertly delivered.

Mike belongs to many Masonic Orders, and is a retired Scotland Yard Detective Chief Inspector. He is an expert on the history of the Craft and crime and also world renowned for his ability to catch criminals with CCTV using ‘Super Recogniser’ officers.

Consequently, he travels the world assisting police forces and giving lectures in lodges.

He is the author of several books about Freemasonry, one being Crime and the Craft: Masonic Involvement in Murder, Treason and Scandal and he holds the rank of Colonel in the Army Cadet Force and is the national training officer for music.

The fun and laughter continued at the festive board were the raffle raised £200.00 for Mikes chosen charity, The Army Cadets, which was thankfully received and will be faithfully applied.  Mike is certainly a man in demand as he had to rush off for a pre planned interview with GB News halfway through the cheese and biscuits!  In an attempt to provide some background music for the said interview, the Brethren blasted out the visitors song which practically raised the roof!! Marvelous, and a tremendous effort Team!!

On his return, Mike was presented with the cheque as well as a gift voucher for his 'Commander in Chief', otherwise known as Mrs. M. Neville who supports Mike during his journey in Freemasonry which includes at least 100 speaking events each year!!  Jokes were told and many more stories were shared amongst the Brethren as the meeting came to an all too early finish.

W.Bro Mike, THANK YOU for being our guest speaker at our HillTop Summer 25 JLOI.  Your presentation was both insightful, engaging and amusing, leaving a lasting impact on all of the Brethren - the notes of appreciation and thanks are rolling in. We appreciate the unique perspective you brought to our event.

Your presence and engaging company made our JLOI very special. Thank you for your time and effort and we look forward to welcoming you again for future HillTop events.