Scorton Advancement
 
The latest recruit to the ranks of Scorton Mark Lodge No 1103 is retired haulage contractor David Partington. David is a member of Pilling craft lodge and is an enthusiastic mason.
 
Amongst those witnessing the ceremony at Garstang Masonic Hall was his proposer, Colin Richmond.
Colin Richmond, David Partington, Ian Henderson and Mark Astbury
The curse of Covid, holidays being caught up upon following the restrictions, work etc. led to there being a reduced number present with some of those in attendance being asked to undertake roles outside their remit. The last scheduled lodge had had to be called off due to the impact of Covid and the lodge, despite the difficulties they were faced with, were determined that this meeting should go ahead.
Stuart Mowbray was called into action to pull the strings as the acting director of ceremonies. Graham Benson the WM of Furness Mark Lodge No 36 stood in as senior warden with provincial senior steward Jim Richards of Jubilee Mark Lodge No 375 taking the role of master overseer. I was delighted to be asked to guide David through the ceremony as the senior deacon.
Stuart Mowbray, Graham Benson and Jim Richards
However particular mention must be made of the work of Mark Astbury. Not only is he the lodge treasurer but on the evening acted as secretary and then took to the chair to assist WM Ian Henderson in undertaking some of the advancement ritual. He can reflect on a job(s) well done.
 
Despite the enforced changes to the officers the evening proved a very pleasing one with a ceremony that David enjoyed. It was worth the effort of all involved.
 
Those members present were obviously pleased to be at the first lodge following the Covid restrictions and happy that Scorton Mark Lodge is once again up and running.
On the evening it was agreed that Scorton Mark Lodge become the new anchor lodge for what is at present Preston RAM No 143 which for some years has been meeting at Garstang.
Words and pictures by Dave Sear Special Rep, Acting SD (unpaid)