It was a very special morning for Adrian Hunter PPSGW of East Lancashire, as he was installed as the master of Ashar Lodge No 5154 who meet at Ridgmont House in Horwich. Ashlar moved from Blackpool to Horwich last year with new members, saving the lodge from closing and they are now settled in the Chorley and Leyland Group as a daytime lodge.
Outgoing master Jim Jackson installed his successor in fine style and in the presence of Assistant Provincial Grand Master Peter Lockett, who was the principal guest. Accompanying Peter was Peter Hegarty Assistant Provincial Grand Master for East Lancashire, along with fellow grand officers Ken Shaw the lodge chaplain and Paul Hesketh the lodge director of ceremonies.
Michael Greenhalgh gave the address to the master and Bryn Proctor gave the address to the wardens, both giving equally as good ritual. To finish the set, Peter Lockett took to the floor to give a flawless address to the brethren of Ashlar Lodge, wishing them many years as a happy lodge.
35 brethren were in attendance, including Chorley and Leyland Group Treasurer Colin Preston and visiting officer Andy Anderson, all present enjoyed an excellent and jovial installation ceremony. Before closing the lodge, newly installed master Adrian presented Peter Lockett with cheques from the lodge to charity for a total of £666. Peter thanked Adrian and the brethren of the lodge for their generous donations. The charity collection in the lodge raised a total of £124 as well.
Following the closure of the meeting, all brethren retired to an eagerly awaited festive board, filled with much happiness and enjoyment. Peter Lockett rounded off the afternoon by giving a compelling and informative oration, which was well received by all present.
Peter Hannis from Lever Park Lodge No 8144 performed the master’s song, accompanied by the guest organist Alan Breeze. The raffle raised £156 at the festive board and Adrian humbly responded to the toast to his health and said he was really looking forward to a most enjoyable year ahead as master.
