Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire No 6615 held its last meeting of the season at Fleetwood Masonic Hall. This special occasion was marked by an atmosphere of camaraderie and tradition, setting the stage for a memorable evening.
The principal focus of the meeting was to commemorate the remarkable achievement of John Wright, who had reached his 50-year milestone in Freemasonry. The lodge gathered to celebrate this significant anniversary, recognising John’s longstanding dedication and service.
The routine business of the lodge was conducted efficiently by WM Richard Dennison in his customary manner with notable swiftness. Following this, the guests, including gentlemen and wives of those attending, were invited into the lodge room to join the brethren in supporting John Wright in his golden anniversary celebrations. WM Richard then commenced with a succinct and detailed overview of John’s 50-year Masonic career, with heartfelt remarks, further expressing the great honour for the lodge to be able to host and celebrate this anniversary with John.
He further commended John’s dedication and longstanding commitment to Freemasonry, ably demonstrated through his membership in various lodges and chapters over the past 50 years and the inspiration and support that John has given to both Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire and West Lancashire Masonic Clay Pigeon Shooting Society.
Once again, WM Richard reaffirmed the honour and privilege for Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire to host this significant occasion, marking John’s remarkable journey and achievements within the fraternity. This evening of celebration not only recognised John’s personal milestones, but also reflected the values and traditions upheld by the lodge and its traditions.
Vice chairman of the South Fylde Group, Ian Park, formally presented John with his 50 years in Freemasonry certificate and a commemorative lapel badge. The lodge presented a pair of engraved cut glass whisky tumblers as a token of the brethren’s esteem and appreciation. Members and guests then adjourned to a convivial festive board, which was capably managed by lodge director of ceremonies Tony Berry.
The evening was filled with good spirits, fellowship and a delightful meal, reflecting the close bonds within the lodge. Demonstrating the generosity of the lodge, WM Richard organised the collection of £255 from the 42 diners by way of a ‘Chorley raffle’. At John’s request, this donation was directed to his chosen charity, Fleetwood RNLI Lifeboats.
Rev Canon John Hall and Dave Smith, both actively involved with Fleetwood RNLI, expressed their gratitude to the brethren for their generous contribution. They explained that the funds would be used to purchase essential sound equipment for the lifeboat service, furthering its vital work in the local Fleetwood community.
The WM concluded the evening by thanking all the attendees, expressing appreciation to Fleetwood Masonic Hall for hosting the event and wishing members an enjoyable and restful recess. The next meeting of the Country Pursuits Lodge of West Lancashire is to be held on Wednesday 30 September at Rowley Court, Lancaster with a very interesting presentation entitled ‘Ensuring a future for red squirrels in the UK’.
