Common questions about the chapter, joining, ride-outs, and the raffle.
Any Master Mason in good standing with a UGLE-recognised Grand Lodge who holds a full UK motorcycle licence. You don't have to live in Sussex — we welcome Brethren from across the South East and further afield.
Yes, but not if they are clubs that operate outside the principles of Freemasonry. You must not be affiliated with any group that could bring disrepute to the WSMBA.
Yes. If you're moving into Sussex or already a member of the Widows Sons elsewhere, you can request a transfer. Your previous Chapter may need to confirm your standing. Contact the Secretary to begin the process.
Yes. Members must have valid insurance and breakdown cover for every ride. The Chapter does not provide this on your behalf — it is your responsibility to make sure your policy is current before every ride-out.
We use the "Second Man Drop-Off" system. The Road Captain leads the group and appoints riders to mark every turn, with a Tail-Ender at the back to make sure nobody gets left behind. Staggered formation, hand signals, and a full briefing before every ride keep us all on the same page. Full details are in the Chapter's Ride Safety Policy, issued to every new member.
There is no formal dress code for ride-outs, but members are expected to wear appropriate safety gear when riding — helmet, gloves, jacket, and suitable trousers/boots as a minimum. For Masonic events and the annual Chapter dinner, standard Masonic dress codes apply.
Official Chapter ride-outs run roughly twice a month from March to October, plus occasional winter rides when the weather permits. Members also organise informal rides in smaller groups throughout the year — the Chapter Facebook group is where these get arranged.
Every kind you can think of. Cruisers, tourers, sportsbikes, adventure bikes, classics, and the odd electric. What matters is that you ride, not what you ride.
The Chapter charges a modest annual subscription to cover running costs, patches, and events. Details are provided to prospective members during the joining process. Come on a ride first — you'll want to meet us before committing.
Yes. Our raffles are run as small-society lotteries under the Gambling Act 2005 and are registered with the appropriate local licensing authority. Ticket sales, draws, and prize allocation are all conducted in line with Gambling Commission guidance. Full terms are published on each raffle page.
The Masonic Charitable Foundation, the Royal British Legion Riders Branch, Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance, and local Sussex-based causes selected by the Chapter each year. Funds raised from raffles, merchandise, and charity ride-outs all go to these beneficiaries, with accounts published to members annually.
Drop us a message via the contact page, or email the Secretary directly at secretary@sussex.wsmba.uk. You're also very welcome to join our Facebook page.
Still got a question? Drop the Secretary a line — we don't bite.
