Cleveleys Mark Advancement and a visit from the PGM!
 
The January meeting of Cleveleys Mark Lodge had a triple significance. Our PGM, Keith Beardmore paid a private visit to the Lodge, which was really appreciated by all the members and guests present. This visit gave him the opportunity to thank his Provincial GJW, Alan Fairhurst, for all his efforts in this very busy Acting year. Alan then performed absolutely superbly in advancing a new member into Cleveleys Mark Lodge, Bro Neil Winkley.  A special night indeed, for Alan, the Lodge, and our newest Mark Man.
PGM Keith Beardmore with WM Bob Walker & ProvGJW Alan Fairhurst
Grand support for our PGM, and the Lodge
The powerhouse of the Lodge, Jimmy Rogers, John Whitley & Des Lund
Keith Beardmore was of course supported by many Grand officers, including David Emmerson, our Provincial DC, John Forster, our Special Representative for the Fylde, and Harry Cox, a member of the Lodge, and of course our very own APrGM in the Craft.  Stephen Leach our Provincial Chaplain was also there, along with visitors from several of the local Lodges.
Steve Hagan did a great job as SW
Tony Blundell, keeping out all the imposters!
PGM with his Provincial JW, Alan Fairhurst
The ceremony was absolutely flawless, with Alan Fairhurst performing superbly throughout, assisted by Brian Gregson who performed the working tools brilliantly.  WM Bob Walker graciously permitted Alan to do the ceremony, for which Alan thanked him.
Keith Beardmore congratulates SD Paul Smedley for a superb job
Bob Walker with new member Neil Winkley, and Alan Fairhurst
Provincial DC Dave Emmerson, assisted by Brian Gregson
The newest member of the Mark Degree, Neil Winkley, was expertly guided around the Lodge by SD Paul Smedley, who never put a foot wrong. 
The PGM greets our newest member of the Mark Degree
PGM & WM at the informal festive board
Keith Beardmore speaks after the buffet
After the meeting, we were all delighted to take part in an informal festive board, with the Cleveleys caterers putting on a superb buffet, with a shortened toast list, and fewer wine takings, it felt like a great social meeting amongst friends, which is exactly what it was!  The PGM did of course thank Alan Fairhurst for all his work this year, as his Provincial JW, and for his work in Lodge, which was of course, first class.  Once the WM toasted Neil Winkley, who then responded, we all retired after a thoroughly good Mark evening.
Brethren at leisure
A good evening was had by all
Cleveleys Mark members, welcoming as ever to their guests

Words and pictures by Giles Berkley (stand-in MO!)