At the September meeting of Borough No 3996, the lodge brethren had the pleasure of initiating a new candidate in the person of Chris Walsh, the son-in-law of Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master David Ogden who oversaw the Wigan Group.
Master of the lodge Ian Finney opened the lodge and was immediately followed by a minute’s silence in respect of Tony Bent PAProvGM, who had recently passed to higher service.
The pleasure of performing the initiation went to Phil Hughes, the DC of the lodge, who caried out a flawless ceremony to the acclaim of all present. He was very ably assisted by his wardens, with a special mention to the deacons who perambulated and assisted the candidate in excellent fashion.
The first degree working tools were presented effortlessly by Damien Dickinson, the senior deacon. On his return to the lodge, Chris Walsh was treated to a word-perfect rendition of the first degree charge delivered by none other than his father-in-law David Ogden.
The lodge was honoured by the presence of the Deputy Provincial Grand Master Frank Umbers, who presented the initiate’s booklet to Chris at the conclusion of the ceremony.
Also present were Tony Harrison, Phil Gunning, Malcolm Bell and Ryan Mangnall with Peter Littlehales keeping a watchful eye on the proceedings.
All in all, Chris was initiated in the best possible manner which will remain with him for the remainder of his Masonic career.
Following the completion of the ceremony, the retinue retired downstairs and enjoyed a splendid festive board courtesy of Phil and Christine Hughes, before retiring home happy in the knowledge that they had witnessed a superb affair from start to finish.
