It was a sunny and bright morning when the brethren from St Helens Lodge of Loyalty No 897, a biker’s lodge, and their guests started to flow through the impressive doors at St Helens Masonic Hall. These fine fellows were dressed in their patch adorned biker jackets, known as ‘cuts’ by these brethren on bikes, with helmets under their arms and many an impressive motorbike gleaming in the carpark.
The lodge opened promptly at 10:30hrs by the acting WM Andrew Baxendale and his dutiful wardens, all with frighteningly loud voices, all of whom had the unmistakeable sparkle of anticipation in their eyes. These fine pillars of the community were eagerly and possibly nervously awaiting the main event of the day which they alone had the privilege of setting in motion.
Their voices echoing across the splendid art deco chamber from wall to wall with an awe-inspiring confidence that only comes from years of hard work and toil, not to mention a steely determination of never giving up on one’s goals no matter how difficult it may seem during the initial steps on the journey towards greatness.
The acting secretary, seated behind his desk proudly sporting his cut which was covered in patches, proof of many a sun-drenched day with the wind rushing past him on a magnificent machine that represents freedom to so many, did circulate the minutes to all brethren. The minutes were duly proposed and seconded by the brethren and deemed a true and accurate record therefore being duly approved. There was a proposal and a ballot for a notice of motion which was originally proposed and seconded by the members of this uniquely attired lodge earlier in the season.
Officers conducting the ceremony performed their roles with aplomb, akin to a military display team on parade. George Graham was the epitome of a steadfast Mason throughout this theatrical and heart racing event in which he was the leading man. His voice confidently carrying across the gilded hall of the temple, even reciting perfectly parts of the WMs role, until he was told to ‘shh’ with gentle laughter following.
The deacons glided across the temple like a pair telepathically connected when performing their duties. One of whom is the grandfather of George, David Graham beaming with pride from start to finish as he led brother Graham across the chequered floor of this grand temple chamber and who would also propose the toast to his grandson at the festive board later that evening in addition to this, the acting WM is that worthy brother’s future stepfather as of the 27 June 2026.
Both wardens were precise in their steps and pronounced their words with great zeal which was worthy of being performed on any West End theatre stage, the effort exuded by both these men showed dedication and great skill throughout proceedings.
Andrew Clarke explained the tracing board, with not a single word dropped, the concentration shown during this remarkable feat was evident to all who had the pleasure of witnessing what can only be described as a succinct example of the explanation of the board as well as a very informative delight to behold for all the brethren present.
The ceremony was a triumphant success by this wonderful lodge of hardworking pillars of the community who all pulled together to make it a night which George Graham, his grandfather and his future stepfather will never forget. Each member is definitely worth his salt or rather his engine oil. After the brilliant ceremony, George sat in his seat beaming in his new apron while the charities were honoured by all brethren present.
The propositions for new and joining members were given. Then the communications were conveyed from Untied Grand Lodge, Provincial Grand Lodge and then to general ones by the secretary. Then on to any other business before the lodge was closed in the usual dignified manner by the acting WM and his ever faithful and loyal wardens.
The festive board consisted of pie and peas which was delicious and was all gone in a matter of minutes, great company, a terrific toast to the lodge’s newest master Mason by, as George put it: “Brother grandad”, which was heartfelt and a joy to listen to, which resulted in everyone in the room feeling its warmth.
George’s response received roof raising cheers which were accompanied by a thunderous round of applause by everyone. There was the usual toast or two and raffle, extraordinary camaraderie between members of this lodge and visiting distinguished guests and concluded another memorable meeting of Masons.