Masonic hall in Thurso will be setting for food and crafts fair
Thurso’s historic Masonic hall will be the setting for a community event featuring five food stalls as well as art, jewellery, wooden sculpted creations and other unique handcrafted items.
Those attending the Artisans North crafts, food and artisans fair will be able to get a close-up look at the Olrig Street building which dates back more than 150 years.
The fair takes place on Saturday, June 14, from 11am to 3pm.
Event organiser Elaine Rapson-Grant said: “We are thrilled to be working in conjunction with the Thurso Masonic lodge for this very special Artisans North crafts and food fair.
“The lodge is opening up its licensed bar downstairs especially for this event, so it’s a great opportunity to enjoy a drink as well as lunch at the lodge since we’ll have five food stalls in attendance selling traditional Scottish hand-baked bridies, pies, sausage rolls, pasties, shortbread, traybakes and cupcakes. We cater for vegans and vegetarians too.”
Elaine went on: “This year Artisans North is raising funds for the MS Society Caithness group as well as Caithness Cats Protection. Artisans North’s ethos is that money raised by them should stay in the county for the benefit of our local community.
“We hope you can join us for a relaxing and enjoyable day out, as well as celebrating and supporting some of the finest small artisan businesses in the county.”
The masonic building, formerly a volunteer drill hall, was designed by local architect David Smith in baronial style with castellated and carved stonework.
It opened in November 1873 and the exterior remains largely unchanged since the late 19th century.
Right Worshipful Master Ian Mackay said: “We look forward to welcoming you, your friends and your family for a guided tour around our beautiful and historic Masonic lodge.
“When you come to visit us, you might like to take a few moments to look up and observe the rich detailed work that has been built into every corner of our upstairs room. There is also some good surviving 19th-century internal detailing.
“Afterwards, please do join us for some refreshments and take the opportunity to browse the products and gift selection displayed at the Artisans North crafts and food fair.”