The masonic centre in Southgate is opening its doors to the public this weekend in an attempt to show the secretive society is "people-friendly".

The open day is part of a move to dispel popular myths about the society's cultish traditions. But the assortment of strange oddments, symbolic decor and elaborate costumes do little to further their argument.

James Young, a freemason of 23 years, is well acquainted with the narrow corridors that lead to a hidden masonic temple towards the back of the High Street centre.

The small room is crammed with strange relics. On a patch of chequered floor lies a rope, a pick and a spade, positioned carefully among specially-shaped rocks, a pair of compasses and The Volume of the Sacred Law'.

"I know you are thinking that this is cultish," says Mr Young. "That is what has been levelled by people who have an ignorance of it. The idea of this week is to dispel such misconceptions.

"We are like-minded people drawn together by the principles of brotherhood, relief and truth."

The Southgate centre has been running since 1967 and now accommodates 158 masonic lodges' of between 15 and 200 people who meet about five times a year.

Visitors can look around the rooms at 88 High Street, from 10am to 4.30pm on Saturday. Admission is free.

June 25, 2002 13:00