A south Cumbria Masonic lodge is set to celebrate its 100th anniversary this year.

The Newby Bridge lodge will be celebrating the centenary milestone in October.

This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the lodge moving into its new premises behind Newby Bridge Hotel, which was built on consecrated ground behind the hotel in 1964.

It was built using materials from the area, including a 'magnificent' oak door from nearby Grizedale Hall, demolished in 1957, which became famous as the setting for WWII film 'The One That Got Away'.

Members of the lodge organised an open day for family, friends, and the public to celebrate the dual milestone.

Guests were invited to tour the lodge and learn about the history of the Masonic movement and the charitable work of the West Lancashire province, of which Newby Bridge is a member.

Lodge secretary Phil Preston said: "We wanted to invite people in for this special occasion, as some of our friends and family had never been into a lodge room.

"We are very proud to be celebrating both our centenary and 60 years of being in this building."

Members of the lodge explained their practices and regalia, including Alan McDougall of Greenodd, the lodge’s longest-serving member, who has been Worshipful Master of the lodge four times during his 44-year membership.

Visitor Eleanor Wood, of Spark Bridge, whose late father Jock Buchanan was a long-standing member of the Newby Bridge lodge, said it had been fascinating to get a glimpse behind the scenes.

She said: "Dad was a devoted Mason for many decades and it’s been really interesting to listen to the history of Masonry and the good they do for the community and for charities – and to see inside their lodge, of which they are so rightly proud."

Members treated their guests to afternoon tea at the Newby Bridge Hotel after the tours.

The Newby Bridge Lodge welcomes new members and further details are available from secretary Philip Preston on 01229 585386 or by email at phil.preston4598@gmail.com.