–submitted by W. Bro Ronald Nuttall

On the 5th November 2008 at Castle Lodge’s 704th regular meeting Peter celebrated 50 years to the day as an active mason. He was initiated into Castle Lodge on the 5th November 1988 by his father, the then Master of the Lodge, Albert Nursall. Peter is the second most senior brother in Castle after W. Bro Ken Cooper PPrSGW who celebrated his 50 years in masonry in December 2005.

Peter was born in the General Hospital, Nottingham on 8th November 1925. He is married to Sylvia with whom he has two children –June and Mark and has 4 grandchildren.

Peter’s joined his fathers General Engineering and Fabrication Company, and whilst an apprentice in the firm for 4 years, gained an HNC in mechanical engineering and welding. From 1945 to 1948 he did his National Service in the Royal Engineers serving in England throughout despite twice being told he was going overseas. He was latterly on the reserved list and was warned he might be called upon to go to Suez. Peter as a qualified mechanical engineer took over the running of the Company founded by his father until its sale some 20 years ago.

Peter is an accredited local preacher for the Methodist church in the South Normanton circuit and remains active in this calling.

Peter was initiated into Castle Lodge on the 5th November 1958; Passed on 4th November 1959 and Raised on the 7th December 1960; He was Master of the Lodge in 1967 and 1996.

He has been and remains an active member of the Lodge. He became Lodge Chaplain in 1988 following the departure due to illness of the Rev. Stanley Lemon. He is still Lodge Chaplain.

Peter joined Castle Royal Arch Chapter in 1962 being 1st Principal in 1974 and 1992. He was a joining member of Carnarvon Chapter where he was 1st Principal in 1994. He holds a Certificate of Merit.

He joined Rufford Rose Croix in 1971 and was Most Wise Sovereign in 1984.

Until recent years Peter has always been active in floor work at meetings particularly at Installations and thirds. He has always been ready and willing to give of his time, effort and Masonic knowledge and has “mentored” many masons in his quiet, easy way. He is a much respected member of the Lodge and the Brethren in the Lodge send their congratulations on this milestone and wish him well for the future.

Photographs taken by Mike Riley.