Astley and Ellesmere Lodge No 730, which meets at Chorley Masonic Hall, celebrated a memorable evening for the installation ceremony of master Mason Tom Richardson. A feat he has been preparing for since his start on his Masonic journey.
Master of the lodge, Derek Whittle opened the lodge and soon after, the principal guest John Robbie Porter entered the lodge as the evening’s representative of the Grand Master Mark Matthews, Robbie was accompanied by Paul Wharton-Hardman, the Chorley and Leyland Chorley and Leyland Group Vice Chairman.
Tom was then presented for installation by his close friend and lodge member, Andy McMath. Tom even had the pleasure of having the company of his own father Phillip Richardson, he must be very proud of Tom, the lodge brethren are sure he will remember it for a very long time.
The installing master, Derek Whittke, then conducted the ceremony with great skill and dignity with the help of the lodge’s director of ceremonies Kevin Taylor, who ensured that the evening ran with precision and smoothness befitting the occasion.
Once Tom was successfully installed as master of the lodge, he invested his officers. The address was given to the master by Andy McMath with sincerity and meaning. The address to the wardens was given by Eric Kos and the working tools of each degree were presented in an exemplary manner by the following brethren; Josh Dewitt, Vic Norris and Ken Ingham.
This evenings representative John Porter then rose and gave an excellent rendition of the address to the brethren of the lodge, certainly the best rendition that any member has seen before and heard.
The master Tom then closed the lodge and the evening concluded with a warm and convivial festive board, highlighted by the Master’s Song, beautifully rendered by Brian Flynn which brought the celebrations to a fitting close. The event was a true reflection of the harmony, dedication, and friendship that continues to thrive within the lodge, making it a night to remember for all who attended.
