Another great occasion was enjoyed by all at Tyldesley Lodge No 2572 and this time Tony Cummings was initiated by his friend and colleague Derek Bond. Derek is actually the immediate past master but, due the absence of the WM, he was delighted to perform the initiation ceremony for his old pal Tony.
Derek and Tony used to work together at Bolton General Hospital before Derek retired and he embraced the opportunity to step in on the night to welcome his former colleague into Freemasonry. A previous member of His Majesty’s Armed Forces, Tony carried himself around the lodge with great dignity and the junior deacon Andrew McVee was faultless in his instruction. The charge after initiation was delivered with consummate ease by Mike Silver, Chorley and Leyland Group Secretary.
Following a wonderful first degree ceremony, the brethren were invited downstairs by Derek to continue the celebrations at the festive board.
During the meal, Tony informed the assembled lodge that his father-in-law was a Scottish Mason and he was delighted that his joining would carry on the family tradition. Tony was also joined by another Bolton General Hospital colleague, Shaun Higson, who came to witness his initiation into Freemasonry.
The evening ended and everyone is looking forward to passing Tony to the second degree in the new year.