Assistant Grand Registrar of England, David Edwards, representing the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews was the principal guest at Blackpool Masonic Hall to witness Carl Robert Spindler being installed for the first time as the master of Peace and Unity Lodge No 3966.
David was accompanied by Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master Harry Cox and grand officers; Geoffrey Lee, Giles Berkley, Keith Jackson, David Thomas and the Blackpool Group Chairman Stephen Jelly, with acting Provincial grand officers Ryan Modlin and Gavin Egan.
The lodge was opened by Gerard Maxwell who conducted the installation ceremony with assistance from his brother Peter. The installing officers were; senior warden Geoff Birkwood, junior warden Alan Howie and inner guard Paul Bennett. Once all the installing officers were placed in their respective positions, Ian Watson presented the master elect before the assembled brethren and in the traditional Peace and Unity Lodge manner, Carl was installed into the master’s chair.
The working tools were presented by the light blues of the lodge, Nicolas Powlesland, Michael Sinclaire-Sly and Andrew Coppen. Ryan Modlin gave the address to the new master and the remaining addresses were given by; Giles Berkley to the wardens, Ken Buckley to the deacons and Bob Marsden to the stewards. On completion of the installation, David Edwards gave the address to the brethren of the lodge.
After a fine traditional installation ceremony and after those most welcome words: “That concludes the ceremony of installation” David rose to bring greetings from the Provincial Grand Master Mark Matthews, congratulating Carl on being installed into the chair of King Solomon and everyone who took part in the afternoon’s proceedings. Special mention was given to the three junior brethren who delivered the working tools.
Carl had the immense pleasure of presenting cheques to the total value of over £5,000 to various deserving charities. David gave thanks to the brethren of the lodge for their very generous donations. In addition, a raffle at the festive board raised a further £500 for charity.
At the festive board the Master’s Song was performed by John Darrell accompanied by Leonard Jolley on the piano. A wonderful evening, enjoyed by all who attended. Carl has a full programme of ceremonies and socials to look forward to during the forthcoming year.
