Not a double ceremony, but double joy for Stuart Crook, who was handed the reigns of Bryn Lodge No 6553 when installed as master of the lodge, only to be exalted into Ashton Trinity Chapter No 8821 less than a week later.
Stuart’s installation was a while coming, as he had to step off the ‘ladder’ when work commitments meant he had to travel away and abroad for several years. However, time and circumstances had their effect and Stuart was able to resume where he had left off and make his way back through the wardens’ chairs and finally achieve his ambition of being installed in the chair of King Solomon in this prestigious lodge.
Assistant Provincial Grand Master Barry Jameson was the distinguished guest at Bryn Masonic Hall and was accompanied by a number of grand and acting Provincial grand officers, including no less than three Past Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, in the persons of Stanley Oldfield, Tony Bent and David Ogden, together with Barry Dickinson PAGDC, group chairman John Selley and vice chairman Ian Green.
Stuart was presented by Barry Dickinson, his proposer into Freemasonry and former work colleague. What followed was a delightful ceremony, commenced by WM Paul Lathom and ably assisted by John Tabern, Stuart was installed in fine style, with DC Derek Burrell keeping a watchful eye on proceedings. Once installed in the chair, Stuart looked comfortable and proceeded with confidence. The address to the master was ably delivered by lodge almoner Les Callan, the address to the wardens by Barry Dickinson and the address to the brethren of the lodge by Barry Jameson.
Congratulating Stuart on taking the chair and everyone who took part, Barry Jameson was delighted to receive cheques for charity donations: to; Guide Dogs UK, Prostate UK, The Brick and Northwest Air Ambulance for £250 each, £500 to Ashton Masonic Properties, £250 to the Development Group and £240 to West Lancashire Freemasons’ Charity. Barry said that this was a very generous donation and thanked the brethren on behalf of the recipients.
Following the meeting there was a fine festive banquet. Barry Jameson, responding to the appropriate toast, passed on his personal congratulations to all who had taken part
in what was a wonderful ceremony, followed by a fine meal in great company. He then passed on a number of messages from the Provincial Grand Master. Paul O’Brien, accompanied by Frank Laird on the organ, gave his rendition of the Master’s Song, in his own inimitable style. The atmosphere was lively and there was a buzz in the air, with everyone enjoying themselves.
Stuart is really looking forward to his year in the chair and is determined to make the most of it. But the installation is only part of this story! Roll on six days, and Stuart is nervously waiting in the ante room in the very same Masonic hall while the three principals, Alan Richards, Fred Dickinson and Phil Barr, opened the convocation of Ashton Trinity Chapter No 8821, in the presence of John Murphy, Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals.
It was the completion his journey in pure ancient Freemasonry for Stuart as he was exalted into the Royal Arch in a well delivered and colourful ceremony, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Speaking at the festive board after his exaltation, Stuart explained how he was delighted to have taken this next step in his Masonic journey and was looking forward to exploring more about the Royal Arch and getting involved in the work of the chapter, adding that he planned to watch, listen and learn for the next 12 months whilst concentrating on his duties as master of Bryn Lodge.
Stuart is married to Denise and they have two sons and a very close extended family. His hobbies include caravaning and football, being a really keen Manchester City fan, and is chairman of his local supporters’ club.
