Gary proclaimed master at Newby Bridge - West Lancashire Freemasons

As storm Debi abated, 57 brethren gathered at Newby Bridge Masonic Hall within the grounds of the Newby Bridge Hotel. Even though the brethren would not get to see a full installation, they would certainly not leave disappointed, as a fine show of ritual was on display.

Pictured left: Philip Gunning (left) congratulating Gary Mansfield. Pictured right from left to right, are: Fraser Nicholson, Dave Smith and Andrew Baker, brethren who presented the working tools of the three degrees.

Once Gary Mansfield had opened Newby Bridge Lodge No 4598 up to the third degree in fine style, (ably assisted by his team), Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies Ryan Modlin made his entrance and announced that Philip Gunning Deputy Provincial Grand Master demanded admission.

Attending Newby Bridge Masonic Hall marked an impressive accomplishment for Philip, as by his own reckoning he has attended every Masonic Hall within the Province of West Lancashire. On this occasion Philip was accompanied by Assistant Provincial Grand Master Peter Schofield, Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies Barry Fitzgerald and Grand officers Rowley Saunders, Barrie Crossley, John Wrennall and Phil Preston.

Also in attendance were the executive committee of the Furness and South Lakeland Group, chairman Alan Pattinson, vice chairman Chris Gray and secretary Tony Jackson. Tony was also there in his capacity of Provincial Senior Grand Deacon. Along with Tony were other acting Provincial grand officers; Provincial Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies Mort Richardson and Provincial Grand Stewards Andy McClements and Phil Renney.

Pictured from left to right, are: John Wrennall, Phil Preston, Barrie Crossley, Philip Gunning, Gary Mansfield, Peter Schofield, Rowley Saunders and Barry Fitzgerald.

Gary was then proclaimed master for the ensuing year. Then a fine show of ritual commenced under the watchful eye of lodge director of ceremonies Phil Preston and assistant director of ceremonies Mark Little. Dave Smith presented the third degree tools and the lodge was closed the long way from the third to the second degree.

Following Dave with excellent presentation of the tools were Andrew Baker and Fraser Nicholson. Particular mention must be made of Andrew Baker, who having not long been a master Mason, did a great job of the long version of the second degree tools. Philip Gunning then rose to congratulate Phil Preston and his team for the work that had clearly been enjoyed.

Following the ceremony, the assembled brethren retired to the hospitality of the Newby Bridge Hotel for an enjoyable festive board. All would leave with memories of an exemplary proclamation ceremony.