Having lost their senior and junior wardens through separate work commitments, taking them both abroad for a time, it did not stop the brethren of White Hills Lodge No 5209 from delivering a splendid installation ceremony as Chris Wilson stayed in the chair for a second year.
During their installation, newer brethren took to the floor to deliver the working tools after Paul Boardman had presented the third degree tools. Both Neil Bramwell with the second degree and Steven Peel with the first degree tools did a fantastic job of delivering great ritual, as did Paul.
Pivoting their original Plan A, with Chris staying as master, Paul Boardman stepped out of the secretary’s chair and into the senior warden’s chair to fill in the final vacant office. Having served as secretary for 12 years, Paul was relieved to see Mark Humphrey take his place as secretary of White Hills and wished him well.
After each new officer was invested, the address to the stewards was given by acting Provincial Grand Steward Paul Wharton-Hardman in fine fashion. Followed by the address to the wardens by Mark Humphrey and Peter Locket, the evenings representative to the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, presented a perfect address to the brethren of White Hills Lodge.
On completing the installation, Peter stood to congratulate Chris on behalf Mark Matthews for being master of his lodge for a second year and for the splendid ritual that had just taken place. As customary a cheque was presented to Peter from the lodge brethren, this year for £750 to West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity. Mike Silver, the group secretary, accompanied Peter in the lodge and was thankful to receive it after Peter had thanked the brethren of the lodge for their donation.
Other acting Provincial grand officers in attendance were; Ian Moss, Rick Winfield and Paul Wharton-Hardan together with group publicity officer Kieran Taylor-Bradshaw.
With the installation complete and after the lodge was closed the brethren made their way downstairs for the festive board. The atmosphere was full of great conversation and newer members were excited to get on the ladder and were looking forward to learning and understanding each office they took.
Nick Medway entertained the brethren with the Master’s Song accompanied by Doug Little on the piano, who had gifted the lodge with his musical prowess during the installation too. The night ended and every left happy.
