In this current economic climate where numerous live venues up and down the country have closed, it’s extremely refreshing to see a new one not only open, but also doing very well indeed. The Alchemy which opened last year in Runcorn, Cheshire, is owned by local Freemason Gary Oates and is run by his son Matt (also a Mason) and when opened, revealed an interior décor that was inspired by Masonic symbolism.

Gary, who served as Worshipful Master of his lodge last year, came up with the ideas for the designs himself and wanted to incorporate the symbolism without using the word Freemasonry, the interior of the venue having just enough Masonic imagery to be recognised by the initiated should they wander into the club. The Alchemy has gone from success to success, the venue supporting the many local bands.

The All-Seeing Eye is prominent in some of the images, the symbolism becoming a much talked about topic amongst the visitors and the bands. There is live music at the venue throughout the week, for information on what’s on check out the twitter page here.