Cumbria Freemasons Pay Tribute to Fell Running Legend Joss Naylor
Cumbria Freemasons have paid tribute to the legendary fell runner Joss Naylor, who passed away this week at the age of 88.
Naylor was widely respected for his dedication to fell running in Cumbria and had been a committed Freemason for many years.
In a heartfelt post on social media, Cumbria Freemasons wrote: "A farmer, an amazing fell runner, and a Freemason.
Bro Joss Naylor MBE (king of the fells), sadly passed away at the age of 88. In December 1971 Mr. Joseph Naylor, age 35, a farmer from Bowerdale, Wasdale, was initiated into Scawell Lodge in our province."
The post went on to highlight Naylor's significant contributions to both fell running and Freemasonry: "Although he did not hold office in the lodge, except as a steward, in 1978 he was given Provincial Honours as PPrGPur, in recognition of his services to masonry through his charity sponsorship as a noted fell runner."
Naylor's achievements in fell running are nothing short of extraordinary.
"In 1986, at the age of 50, Joss ran all 214 Wainwrights in seven days. When he turned 60, he ran 60 Lakeland fell tops in 36 hours, and at 70 he ran 70 Lakeland fells, a true and amazing athlete," the post continued.
Not only was Joss a remarkable athlete, but he was also a dedicated philanthropist.
"Over the years, Joss raised tens of thousands of pounds for both Masonic charities and wider charities, a true and proud Freemason. He also became the holder of the MBE."
The tribute concluded with a reflection on Naylor's impact: "Joss will be sadly missed as not only was he a national hero, but also internationally as his fell running talents were incredible."
The Cumbria Freemasons and the wider community mourn the loss of a true legend whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
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