Busy Barry
 
Barry Fitzgerald, the WM of Furness Mark Lodge No. 36, is about to set out on a masonic season when he is not only the head of the lodge but also has to find his feet in what will be a very demanding maiden year as a Deputy Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies in the craft. A busy man indeed.
Peter Schofield, Peter Clafton, Barry Fitzgerald and Andrew Ridal
The first meeting of the lodge saw Andrew Ridal advanced into the degree. In addition Peter Schofield and Peter Clafton were welcomed as joining members.
Ian Cottam, Stuart Brackstone and Peter Clafton.
Andrew is the craft Provincial Deputy Grand Secretary whilst Peter Schofield is the chairman of the Furness and South Lakeland group. Peter Clafton has no such title but is a well-respected, capable mason and an all-round good egg.
Stuart Brackstone IPM Bill Glassey and Jim Richards.
Harry Moore, Ian Cottam and Dave Sear shared the work in advancing Andrew. In his first outing as Senior Deacon John Houlding showed his worth as he conducted Andrew through the proceedings with great aplomb.
Geoff Waters proposes the toast to Andrew.
Amongst the interested onlookers were special representative Stuart Brackstone and Jim Richards who is the WM of Jubilee Mark Lodge No 375.
Two very distinguished members of the degree in the persons of Tony Harrison and Phil Gunning had been otherwise engaged and could not be present but sent their congratulations to Andrew on his advancement.
John Houlding grasps his prize.
On the evening there were two propositions for membership which should ensure that there are no gaps to fill in the calendar this year.
Geoff Waters proposed the toast to Andrew at the festive board who in reply not only thanked John for conducting him during the ceremony but also managed to select John’s ticket for the first raffle prize.
Report and Photographs courtesy of Dave Sear