Stephen installed in the chair in fine style
 
Assistant Provincial Grand Master Ian Douglas Nairn was delighted to attend Ormskirk Masonic Hall as the principal guest at the installation ceremony of Ormskirk Mark Lodge No 734. Ian was accompanied by two Deputy DCs, Grand Officers: Fred Hargreaves, Brian Molyneux, Further support came in the persons of acting Provincial Grand Officer Stewart Hyde.
Ian Douglas Nairn congratulates Stephen Brereton on attaining the chair of Adoniram
The initial business of the lodge being concluded, Ian was warmly received by the WM and was, by right, offered the gavel. Ian returned it with comforting words to Andrew.
Ian and the other distinguished brethren were there to join the members and visitors to witness, the installation of Stephen Brereton into the chair of this small but happy lodge. Stephen was installed in the chair of Adoniram by outgoing WM Andrew Cunningham who asked Stephen the required questions he then asked his IPM Prince Bagley to assist him by carrying out the rest of the installation ceremony which Prince did in fine style with dignity and precision.
Ian and Stephen are pictured with the installing masters and distinguished guests
Once installed in the chair Fred Hargreaves presented Stephen with the Keystone Jewel and collaret which is worn at all meetings that the worshipful master attends in his year in office – Fred with his usual flair explained the origin of the jewel which the lodge was given to mark its donation towards building Mark Master Masons Hall in London.  Freed also presented Stephen with the and MBF collaret.
Overall the Installation ceremony was a well-orchestrated team effort. ADC Stuart Cunningham gave the address to the WM at short notice due to the poor heath of the new DC Peter Smith who was unable to attend the meeting, Paul Carr delivered the address to the Wardens and Stuart Cunningham presented the Working Tools and Address to the Overseers, Ian gave the address to the Brethren.
Once the installation was completed, Ian rose and brought the congratulations of the Provincial Grand Master, who he said, would have been delighted to witness such a fine installation and would have congratulated Stephen on attaining the chair and Andrew and Prince on installing him in such a fine way.
In response Stephen was delighted to present Ian with two charitable donations one to West Lancashire Freemasons’ Mark Master Masons Charity for £300 and one to the British Heart Foundation for £100 for which Ian thanked the members of the lodge.
Ian responds to the toast to Grand Officers
A really enjoyable festive board followed in the joyful atmosphere that always prevails at Ormskirk Mark diners. In his response to the toast to grand officer Ian on his own behalf gave congratulations to the new master and praised the two installing masters for the way they installed Stephen. Ian then spoke about the topics encouraged by the PrGM, including the Mark Masons Charity and the Childrens Christmas party He concluded by thanking the acting Provincial Officers for their support and lodge secretary Robert Povall for the work he does behind the scenes.
 
Words and Pictures Courtesy of Mark Holloway