A NEW Masonic lodge has been formed in Huddersfield - the first new one in the town since 1946.

The lodge will draw on the town's rich rugby heritage and its aim is to attract people involved in either rugby union or league into freemasonry.

The lodge was formally formed and consecrated at Greenhead Masonic Hall near Huddersfield town centre in a special ceremony attended by 170 masons.

The consecration was led by Provincial Grand Master Trevor Broadley before the new lodge's Master Designate, Worshipful Brother Keith Robinson, was installed.

Worshipful Brother Mick Dyson, son of former Fartown favourite Frank `Spanky' Dyson, said: "The lodge will meet four times a year and will have 54 members.

"At the moment it has drawn its members from other Masonic lodge all over the country with one coming from as far away as Surrey.

"Our aim is to encourage people from the rugby fraternity - both league and union - into becoming freemasons."

The lodge will be based at Greenhead Masonic Hall and has started 110 years after rugby league was officially formed at the George Hotel in Huddersfield town centre.

A raffle of rugby memorabilia raised £800 which will be given to charities in the Huddersfield area.