It’s always a pleasure to host a busy meeting filled with visitors, turning a special occasion into something truly extraordinary.
The meeting was graced by many distinguished Freemasons, including the Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Mark Estaugh, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, V.W. Bro. Ian Gallehawk, and two Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, W. Bro. David Huntley and W. Bro. Graham Raven. We were also honoured by the presence of the Past Deputy Grand Master and Past Second Grand Principal, R.W. Bro. Russell Race, as well as the Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master, V.W. Bro. Graham Higgs, and Past Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, V.W. Bro. Roland Wade, W. Bro. Charles Marchant, and W. Bro. Kenneth Lorberg—along with many other esteemed brethren.
With over 60 in attendance, the meeting was bustling with energy and camaraderie.
The ceremony began with Bro. Ashley Barnard being passed to the Second Degree by W. Bro. Paul Goff, followed by the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Brian Burbidge, delivering an impressive explanation of the Second Degree Tracing Board.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the day was the presentation of a 50-Year Citation to W. Bro. Geoff Whale, the longest-serving subscribing member of the Lodge, by the R.W. Provincial Grand Master. We heard about Geoff’s days as a Hospital Radio DJ, his professional life, and his remarkable Masonic career, which includes membership in other orders and outstanding charitable contributions, especially his work with the Duke of Kent Court.
Adding to the celebration, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W. Bro. David Huntley, surprised W. Bro. Paul Christopher with a 30-Year Citation during the second rising. A heartfelt tribute was paid to W. Bro. Paul for guiding the Province through the disruptions of COVID and for his exemplary organizational skills. His Masonic journey and career were celebrated with much admiration.
The day was further enriched by the return of old friends, including the much-loved past Almoner, W. Bro. Steve Bishop, whose presence was a delightful addition after several years away.
At the Festive Board, the Lodge presented W. Bro. Geoff with a commemorative memento of his special day—a nod to his days in Hospital Radio. It featured the number one single on the day he was initiated, “If” by Telly Savalas, inscribed with a personalized touch.
Additionally, W. Bro. David Ferdinando offered Geoff a personal gift, rekindling a long-standing jest where Bro. David was discussing Bro. Geoff’s attributes! .
The meeting, along with the lively Festive Board, was thoroughly enjoyed by all. It truly was an occasion to remember, celebrating the past, present, and future of Freemasonry.
With grateful thanks to V.W. Bro. Ian Gallehawk for providing the photographs of the meeting.