Toxteth Lodge No 1359 November meeting at the Geoffrey Hirst Suite within Woolton Golf Club, was to initiate Le Gros into Freemasonry. However, the night could have been disastrous as the WM Dennis Douglas advised the treasurer Eric Binks the night before that he was unwell and unable to attend.
Eric Binks immediately got out his book of ritual and decided to perform the ceremony himself. Eric did not disappoint. The candidate for initiation was admitted into the lodge in due form after signing the declaration and paying the necessary fees. Eric undertook the entire ceremony including the Charge and the junior. deacon Anthony Robinson was word perfect and conducted the candidate with precision and confidence.
On the candidates return into the lodge, he was presented to Ian Edge who was deputising for the group mentor, he received the information pack which is now presented to all initiates. There were 15 Lodge members present and 14 visitors at the festive board. The toast to the candidate was given by John Leisk who delivered the Rudyard Kipling poem, ‘The Initiation’ and gave Le a framed copy of the poem.
Ian Edge presented him with a ‘Forget me not pin’ and explained its significance, especially as it was the weekend the country celebrates those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Le Gros responded with a short sincere thanks to the brethren.