England rugger star joins the Craft

Former England rugby star, Steve Thompson MBE, has joined the Craft. The hooker who lifted the Word Cup in 2003 has joined ... Webb Ellis Lodge No 9740.

Here is how the news was reported on the Northamptonshire and Huntingdonshire provincial website

Webb Ellis Lodge No 9740 was honoured to initiate former England and Northampton Saints hero, Steve Thompson MBE on the 14 June. 104 masons attended the initiation at Sheaf Close Northampton.

 

(l to r) Bro Steve Miles SW, Bro Steve Thompson, VWBro Wayne Williams WM & WBro Steve James JW

At the festive board in response to the Masters Toast, the Worshipful Master, VW Bro Wayne Williams, Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master, had everybody in stitches when he recounted his pleasure in undertaking the initiation.

"As I sat there in my chair elevated by the pedestal, a mere lad from the Rhondda Valley, there standing before me appeared the man mountain, Stephen Thompson MBE, hooker for ten seasons for Northampton Saints, 73 caps for England – England's the most capped hooker – British Lion and World Cup winner.

The temple hushed in expectation as I said, 'You will kneel on your left knee.' Something many a Welsh front row would have loved to have achieved - but regrettably, never did."

I should get a few beers on that story in Cardiff when attending Provincial Grand Chapter in South Wales!"

Here is Steve in a more familiar look..