The Fylde light blues continue what has now become a much valued annual tradition, assembling for an afternoon tea at the Palace in St Annes on Sea. The venue once again provided an excellent setting for an occasion that brought together 72 light blue Freemasons, their families and guests, who enjoyed an afternoon of fellowship, conversation and a superb selection of sandwiches, savouries and cakes prepared by Masonic Event Catering.
The gathering was organised by Fylde Light Blues Chairman Ian Fell, supported by secretary Del Hernen. Their efforts ensured that all present were able to enjoy a well co-ordinated and welcoming event. Ian opened the proceedings by extending warm greetings to everyone in attendance and outlined the programme for the afternoon, which included entertainment from the ever popular Roger Lloyd Jones, followed by the customary raffle.
A thoughtful gift had been placed at each ladies place setting: a decorative teapot crafted from card, which was warmly received and demonstrated the care and attention that characterise light blue social occasions.
Once the Palace catering staff had served an abundant selection of cakes, savouries, sandwiches and scones, accompanied by plentiful tea, the room settled into a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere. Conversations flowed freely, plates were readily replenished and the sense of shared enjoyment was evident throughout.
Following the afternoon tea, Roger Lloyd Jones commenced his entertainment with a musical quiz centred on famous lead guitarists. John Robbie Porter and David Barr emerged as clear winners, achieving a maximum score of 21 points. Roger then delivered a varied musical set spanning several genres, encouraging enthusiastic participation from everyone in the room. A number of guests even took to the floor to showcase their own guitar skills, adding to the enjoyment of the afternoon.
With the entertainment concluded, attention turned to the raffle. More than 30 prizes were available, generously donated by those attending. Polly Hernen and Trudie Heelis undertook the task of selling tickets with great enthusiasm, raising an excellent total of £505. This sum will be donated to both local charities and wider community causes.
Ian then addressed the room once more to outline the forthcoming programme of Fylde light blues events. A car treasure hunt will take place on 6 September 2026, followed by a Sunday lunch at Rigby’s Farmhouse Restaurant near Warton on 25 October 2026. The Christmas party social is scheduled for 16 December 2026 at the Park Club in Cleveleys and a New Year breakfast will be held at Farmer Parrs Tractor Shed Bistro at Fleetwood on 10 January 2027. Ian also highlighted the monthly workshops held across the Fylde coast, with the next session scheduled for 26 August 2026 at the Park Club Cleveleys.
In closing, Ian expressed his thanks to Lee and Janine Munro of Masonic Event Catering, John and Pamela Nicholls of the Palace, Roger Lloyd Jones, his fellow committee members and all the attendees for their support in making the afternoon such a successful and enjoyable occasion.